Rolex 1908 vs Rolex Datejust 31
Ref. M52509-0002 vs Ref. M278271-0006
Comparing the Rolex Datejust 31 to the Rolex 1908 means weighing a significant price difference — is the premium justified? At $28,900 versus $14,300, these two watches serve different segments of the market. Here's how they stack up on specifications, value retention, and investment potential.
Price Comparison
Rolex
1908
Rolex
Datejust 31
At retail, the Rolex 1908 is listed at $28,900 while the Rolex Datejust 31 comes in at $14,300. The Rolex Datejust 31 comes in at $14,600 less — more than half the price difference — making it a significantly more accessible option. On the secondary market, the gap narrows: the Rolex 1908 trades around $24,000 and the Rolex Datejust 31 around $13,585, a difference of $10,415 favoring the Rolex Datejust 31. Available at 17% below retail and trending downward, this represents a buying opportunity for those comfortable with the current market position. The Rolex Datejust 31 commands an even stronger market premium of -5.0%, holding steady. For investors, the Rolex Datejust 31 edges ahead with a flip potential score of 4/10 compared to 3/10.
Specifications
| Specification | Rolex 1908 | Rolex Datejust 31 |
|---|---|---|
| Case Diameter | 39mm | 31mm |
| Case Thickness | 10.4mm | 11.3mm |
| Case Material | 18ct white gold | Oystersteel and 18ct Everose gold |
| Bezel | 18ct white gold, domed and fluted | 18ct Everose gold, fluted |
| Crystal | Sapphire, domed | Sapphire with Cyclops lens |
| Water Resistance | 50m / 165ft | 100m / 330ft |
| Movement | Rolex calibre 7140 | Rolex calibre 2236 |
| Movement Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Power Reserve | 66 hours | 55 hours |
| Bracelet/Strap | Alligator leather strap | Jubilee, five-piece links in Oystersteel and 18ct Everose gold |
| Clasp | 18ct white gold folding Oysterclasp | Oysterclasp with Easylink 5mm comfort extension |
| Lug Width | 20mm | 16mm |
Key specification differences stand out between these two: The Rolex Datejust 31 leads in water resistance (100m / 330ft vs. 50m / 165ft), and the Rolex 1908 offers longer power reserve at 66 hours, and the Rolex 1908 uses 18ct white gold while the Rolex Datejust 31 opts for Oystersteel and 18ct Everose 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 $615 versus $438 for the Rolex Datejust 31. For water resistance, the Rolex Datejust 31 delivers better value per meter of depth rating. The Rolex Datejust 31 offers more power reserve per dollar spent.
Which Should You Buy?
Choose the Rolex 1908 if you value the Rolex heritage. Go with the Rolex Datejust 31 if you prioritize a lower entry price, stronger flip potential, better value retention. For pure investment potential, the Rolex Datejust 31 has the edge based on current market data.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is more affordable, the Rolex 1908 or the Rolex Datejust 31?
The Rolex Datejust 31 is more accessible, priced at $14,300 compared to $28,900.
Which watch is a better investment?
Based on current market data, the Rolex Datejust 31 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 Datejust 31 currently trades at 5.0% below retail, indicating moderate value retention on the pre-owned market.
How do the Rolex 1908 and Rolex Datejust 31 compare in size?
The Rolex 1908 measures 39mm in diameter and 10.4mm thick, while the Rolex Datejust 31 is 31mm by 11.3mm. Water resistance differs too: 50m / 165ft versus 100m / 330ft.
What movements do these watches use?
The Rolex 1908 uses the Rolex calibre 7140 with 66 hours power reserve, while the Rolex Datejust 31 runs on the Rolex calibre 2236 offering 55 hours of power reserve.