Rolex 1908 vs Rolex GMT-Master II
Ref. M52509-0002 vs Ref. 16710
Comparing the Rolex GMT-Master II to the Rolex 1908 means weighing a significant price difference — is the premium justified? At $28,900 versus ~$17,000 (market value), 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
GMT-Master II
The Rolex 1908 is priced at $28,900 while the Rolex GMT-Master II comes in at ~$17,000 (market value). On the secondary market, the gap narrows: the Rolex 1908 trades around $24,000 and the Rolex GMT-Master II around $17,000, a difference of $7,000 favoring the Rolex GMT-Master II. Available at 17% below retail and trending downward, this represents a buying opportunity for those comfortable with the current market position. The Rolex GMT-Master II commands an even stronger market premium of 0.0%, with upward momentum. For investors, the Rolex GMT-Master II edges ahead with a flip potential score of 6/10 compared to 3/10.
Specifications
| Specification | Rolex 1908 | Rolex GMT-Master II |
|---|---|---|
| Case Diameter | 39mm | 40mm |
| Case Thickness | 10.4mm | 12.0mm |
| Case Material | 18ct white gold | Stainless steel |
| Bezel | 18ct white gold, domed and fluted | Stainless steel with aluminum insert (blue/red, black/red, or black) |
| Crystal | Sapphire, domed | Sapphire with Cyclops lens |
| Water Resistance | 50m / 165ft | 100m / 330ft |
| Movement | Rolex calibre 7140 | Rolex calibre 3185 |
| Movement Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Power Reserve | 66 hours | 48 hours |
| Bracelet/Strap | Alligator leather strap | Oyster, three-piece solid links |
| Clasp | 18ct white gold folding Oysterclasp | Oysterclasp with Easylink 5mm comfort extension |
| Lug Width | 20mm | 20mm |
Key specification differences stand out between these two: The Rolex GMT-Master II 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 GMT-Master II opts for Stainless steel. 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 $425 for the Rolex GMT-Master II. For water resistance, the Rolex GMT-Master II delivers better value per meter of depth rating. The Rolex GMT-Master II 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 GMT-Master II if you prioritize a lower entry price, stronger flip potential, better value retention. For pure investment potential, the Rolex GMT-Master II has the edge based on current market data.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is more affordable, the Rolex 1908 or the Rolex GMT-Master II?
The Rolex GMT-Master II is more accessible, priced at ~$17,000 (market value) compared to $28,900.
Which watch is a better investment?
Based on current market data, the Rolex GMT-Master II has a higher flip potential score of 6/10, suggesting stronger investment returns. However, watch values can fluctuate based on market conditions.
Which holds its value better on the secondary market?
The Rolex GMT-Master II currently trades at 0.0% below retail, indicating moderate value retention on the pre-owned market.
How do the Rolex 1908 and Rolex GMT-Master II compare in size?
The Rolex 1908 measures 39mm in diameter and 10.4mm thick, while the Rolex GMT-Master II is 40mm by 12.0mm. 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 GMT-Master II runs on the Rolex calibre 3185 offering 48 hours of power reserve.