Rolex Air-King vs Tudor Submariner
Ref. M126900-0001 vs Ref. 79090
The Rolex Air-King and Tudor Submariner represent one of the most compelling matchups in luxury watches — a sibling rivalry between two brands under the same parent company. With the Rolex Air-King priced at $8,450 and the Tudor Submariner at ~$7,000 (market value), the price gap raises a critical question: does the extra investment in the pricier option deliver proportional value? We break down the specs, market performance, and flip potential to help you decide.
Price Comparison
Rolex
Air-King
Tudor
Submariner
The Rolex Air-King is priced at $8,450 while the Tudor Submariner comes in at ~$7,000 (market value). On the secondary market, the gap narrows: the Rolex Air-King trades around $9,500 and the Tudor Submariner around $7,000, a difference of $2,500 favoring the Tudor Submariner. Trading at 12% above retail and holding steady, this model holds its value well on the pre-owned market. The Tudor Submariner commands an even stronger market premium of +366.7%, with upward momentum. For investors, the Tudor Submariner edges ahead with a flip potential score of 8/10 compared to 5/10.
Specifications
| Specification | Rolex Air-King | Tudor Submariner |
|---|---|---|
| Case Diameter | 40mm | 40mm |
| Case Thickness | 13.1mm | 12.5mm |
| Case Material | Oystersteel | Stainless steel |
| Bezel | Oystersteel, smooth | Unidirectional rotating bezel with aluminum insert in black |
| Crystal | Sapphire | Sapphire crystal |
| Water Resistance | 100m / 330ft | 200m / 660ft |
| Movement | Rolex calibre 3230 | ETA 2824-2 |
| Movement Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Power Reserve | 70 hours | 38 hours |
| Bracelet/Strap | Oyster, three-piece solid links | Stainless steel Oyster-style bracelet |
| Clasp | Oysterclasp with Easylink 5mm comfort extension | Folding clasp with diver extension |
| Lug Width | 20mm | 20mm |
Key specification differences stand out between these two: The Tudor Submariner leads in water resistance (200m / 660ft vs. 100m / 330ft), and the Rolex Air-King offers longer power reserve at 70 hours, and the Rolex Air-King uses Oystersteel while the Tudor Submariner opts for Stainless steel. With 7 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 Air-King costs $238 versus $175 for the Tudor Submariner. For water resistance, the Tudor Submariner delivers better value per meter of depth rating. The Rolex Air-King offers more power reserve per dollar spent.
Which Should You Buy?
Choose the Rolex Air-King if you value the Rolex heritage. Go with the Tudor Submariner if you prioritize a lower entry price, stronger flip potential, better value retention. For pure investment potential, the Tudor Submariner has the edge based on current market data.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is more affordable, the Rolex Air-King or the Tudor Submariner?
The Tudor Submariner is more accessible, priced at ~$7,000 (market value) compared to $8,450.
Which watch is a better investment?
Based on current market data, the Tudor Submariner has a higher flip potential score of 8/10, suggesting stronger investment returns. However, watch values can fluctuate based on market conditions.
Which holds its value better on the secondary market?
The Tudor Submariner currently trades at 366.7% above retail, indicating strong value retention on the pre-owned market.
How do the Rolex Air-King and Tudor Submariner compare in size?
The Rolex Air-King measures 40mm in diameter and 13.1mm thick, while the Tudor Submariner is 40mm by 12.5mm. Water resistance differs too: 100m / 330ft versus 200m / 660ft.
What movements do these watches use?
The Rolex Air-King uses the Rolex calibre 3230 with 70 hours power reserve, while the Tudor Submariner runs on the ETA 2824-2 offering 38 hours of power reserve.