Rolex 1908 vs Rolex Submariner Date
Ref. M52509-0002 vs Ref. 116610LV
Comparing the Rolex Submariner Date to the Rolex 1908 means weighing a significant price difference — is the premium justified? At $28,900 versus ~$21,000 (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
Submariner Date
The Rolex 1908 is priced at $28,900 while the Rolex Submariner Date comes in at ~$21,000 (market value). On the secondary market, the gap narrows: the Rolex 1908 trades around $24,000 and the Rolex Submariner Date around $21,000, a difference of $3,000 favoring the Rolex Submariner Date. Available at 17% 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 +119.9%, with upward momentum. For investors, the Rolex Submariner Date edges ahead with a flip potential score of 9/10 compared to 3/10.
Specifications
| Specification | Rolex 1908 | Rolex Submariner Date |
|---|---|---|
| Case Diameter | 39mm | 40mm |
| Case Thickness | 10.4mm | 12.5mm |
| Case Material | 18ct white gold | Oystersteel |
| Bezel | 18ct white gold, domed and fluted | Cerachrom (ceramic) in green |
| Crystal | Sapphire, domed | Sapphire with Cyclops lens |
| Water Resistance | 50m / 165ft | 300m / 1000ft |
| Movement | Rolex calibre 7140 | Rolex calibre 3135 |
| 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 | Oysterlock safety clasp with Glidelock extension system |
| Lug Width | 20mm | 20mm |
Key specification differences stand out between these two: The Rolex Submariner Date leads in water resistance (300m / 1000ft 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 Submariner Date opts for Oystersteel. 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 $525 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 the Rolex heritage. Go with the Rolex Submariner Date if you prioritize a lower entry price, stronger flip potential, better value retention. 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 Submariner Date is more accessible, priced at ~$21,000 (market value) compared to $28,900.
Which watch is a better investment?
Based on current market data, the Rolex Submariner Date has a higher flip potential score of 9/10, 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 119.9% above retail, indicating strong 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 40mm 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 3135 offering 48 hours of power reserve.