Rolex Cosmograph Daytona vs Rolex GMT-Master II
Ref. 6263 vs Ref. 16710
Comparing the Rolex GMT-Master II to the Rolex Cosmograph Daytona means weighing a significant price difference — is the premium justified? At ~$375,000 (market value) 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
Cosmograph Daytona
Rolex
GMT-Master II
The Rolex Cosmograph Daytona is priced at ~$375,000 (market value) while the Rolex GMT-Master II comes in at ~$17,000 (market value). On the secondary market, the gap widens: the Rolex Cosmograph Daytona trades around $375,000 and the Rolex GMT-Master II around $17,000, a difference of $358,000 favoring the Rolex GMT-Master II. Currently trending upward at just 0% below retail, this watch retains most of its value on the secondary market. The Rolex GMT-Master II shows a more modest market premium of 0.0%, with upward momentum. Both watches score equally on flip potential at 6/10, making neither a clear investment winner over the other.
Specifications
| Specification | Rolex Cosmograph Daytona | Rolex GMT-Master II |
|---|---|---|
| Case Diameter | 37mm | 40mm |
| Case Thickness | 13.0mm | 12.0mm |
| Case Material | Stainless steel | Stainless steel |
| Bezel | Stainless steel with tachymetric scale | Stainless steel with aluminum insert (blue/red, black/red, or black) |
| Crystal | Acrylic | Sapphire with Cyclops lens |
| Water Resistance | 50m / 165ft | 100m / 330ft |
| Movement | Valjoux 727 | Rolex calibre 3185 |
| Movement Type | Manual winding | Automatic |
| Power Reserve | 48 hours | 48 hours |
| Bracelet/Strap | Oyster, riveted links | Oyster, three-piece solid links |
| Clasp | Oyster folding clasp | 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). With 6 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 Cosmograph Daytona costs $10,135 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 Cosmograph Daytona if you value timing functionality. Go with the Rolex GMT-Master II if you prioritize the Rolex heritage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is more affordable, the Rolex Cosmograph Daytona or the Rolex GMT-Master II?
The Rolex GMT-Master II is more accessible, priced at ~$17,000 (market value) compared to ~$375,000 (market value).
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 Cosmograph Daytona and Rolex GMT-Master II compare in size?
The Rolex Cosmograph Daytona measures 37mm in diameter and 13.0mm 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 Cosmograph Daytona uses the Valjoux 727 with 48 hours power reserve, while the Rolex GMT-Master II runs on the Rolex calibre 3185 offering 48 hours of power reserve.
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