Rolex 1908 vs Rolex Submariner Date
Ref. M52509-0002 vs Ref. M126613LB-0002
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 $28,900 and $17,550 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 $28,900 while the Rolex Submariner Date comes in at $17,550. At $11,350 less (65% savings), the Rolex Submariner Date offers a substantially lower entry point. On the secondary market, the gap narrows: the Rolex 1908 trades around $24,000 and the Rolex Submariner Date around $18,500, a difference of $5,500 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 +5.4%, holding steady. For investors, the Rolex Submariner Date edges ahead with a flip potential score of 5/10 compared to 3/10.
Specifications
| Specification | Rolex 1908 | Rolex Submariner Date |
|---|---|---|
| Case Diameter | 39mm | 41mm |
| Case Thickness | 10.4mm | 12.5mm |
| Case Material | 18ct white gold | Oystersteel and 18ct yellow gold |
| Bezel | 18ct white 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 Oystersteel and 18ct yellow gold |
| Clasp | 18ct white 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 white gold while the Rolex Submariner Date opts for Oystersteel and 18ct yellow 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 $451 for the Rolex Submariner Date. For water resistance, the Rolex Submariner Date delivers better value per meter of depth rating. The Rolex Submariner Date 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 $17,550 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 5/10, 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 5.4% 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 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.