Rolex 1908 vs Rolex Submariner Date
Ref. M52508-0006 vs Ref. M126619LB-0003
The Rolex 1908 and Rolex Submariner Date both carry the Rolex name but serve different purposes — the Rolex 1908 as a dress watch and the Rolex Submariner Date as a dive watch. At $27,100 and $47,200 respectively, the question isn't which is better — it's which better fits your collection and investment goals.
Price Comparison
Rolex
1908
Rolex
Submariner Date
At retail, the Rolex 1908 is listed at $27,100 while the Rolex Submariner Date comes in at $47,200. At $20,100 less (74% savings), the Rolex 1908 offers a substantially lower entry point. On the secondary market, the gap widens: the Rolex 1908 trades around $20,000 and the Rolex Submariner Date around $45,000, a difference of $25,000 favoring the Rolex 1908. Available at 26% below retail and trending downward, this represents a buying opportunity for those comfortable with the current market position. The Rolex Submariner Date commands an even stronger market premium of -4.7%, holding steady. For investors, the Rolex Submariner Date edges ahead with a flip potential score of 4/10 compared to 3/10.
Specifications
| Specification | Rolex 1908 | Rolex Submariner Date |
|---|---|---|
| Case Diameter | 39mm | 41mm |
| Case Thickness | 10.4mm | 12.5mm |
| Case Material | 18ct yellow gold | 18ct white gold |
| Bezel | 18ct yellow gold, domed and fluted | Cerachrom (ceramic) in blue |
| Crystal | Sapphire, domed | Sapphire with Cyclops lens |
| Water Resistance | 50m / 165ft | 300m / 1000ft |
| Movement | Rolex calibre 7140 | Rolex calibre 3235 |
| Movement Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Power Reserve | 66 hours | 70 hours |
| Bracelet/Strap | Alligator leather strap | Oyster, three-piece solid links in 18ct white gold |
| Clasp | 18ct yellow gold folding Oysterclasp | Oysterlock safety clasp with Glidelock extension system |
| Lug Width | 20mm | 21mm |
Key specification differences stand out between these two: The Rolex Submariner Date leads in water resistance (300m / 1000ft vs. 50m / 165ft), and the Rolex Submariner Date offers longer power reserve at 70 hours, and the Rolex 1908 uses 18ct yellow gold while the Rolex Submariner Date opts for 18ct white gold. With 8 notable spec differences in total, the choice depends on which features matter most to your use case.
Value Per Feature
Per millimeter of case diameter, the Rolex 1908 costs $513 versus $1,098 for the Rolex Submariner Date. For water resistance, the Rolex Submariner Date delivers better value per meter of depth rating. The Rolex 1908 offers more power reserve per dollar spent.
Which Should You Buy?
Choose the Rolex 1908 if you value a lower entry price. Go with the Rolex Submariner Date if you prioritize stronger flip potential, better value retention, serious diving capabilities. For pure investment potential, the Rolex Submariner Date has the edge based on current market data.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is more affordable, the Rolex 1908 or the Rolex Submariner Date?
The Rolex 1908 is more accessible, priced at $27,100 compared to $47,200.
Which watch is a better investment?
Based on current market data, the Rolex Submariner Date has a higher flip potential score of 4/10, suggesting stronger investment returns. However, watch values can fluctuate based on market conditions.
Which holds its value better on the secondary market?
The Rolex Submariner Date currently trades at 4.7% below retail, indicating moderate value retention on the pre-owned market.
How do the Rolex 1908 and Rolex Submariner Date compare in size?
The Rolex 1908 measures 39mm in diameter and 10.4mm thick, while the Rolex Submariner Date is 41mm by 12.5mm. Water resistance differs too: 50m / 165ft versus 300m / 1000ft.
What movements do these watches use?
The Rolex 1908 uses the Rolex calibre 7140 with 66 hours power reserve, while the Rolex Submariner Date runs on the Rolex calibre 3235 offering 70 hours of power reserve.