Rolex Datejust 31 vs Rolex Submariner
Ref. M278271-0006 vs Ref. M124060-0001
The Rolex Datejust 31 and Rolex Submariner both carry the Rolex name but serve different purposes — the Rolex Datejust 31 as a dress watch and the Rolex Submariner as a dive watch. At $14,300 and $10,250 respectively, the question isn't which is better — it's which better fits your collection and investment goals.
Price Comparison
Rolex
Datejust 31
Rolex
Submariner
At retail, the Rolex Datejust 31 is listed at $14,300 while the Rolex Submariner comes in at $10,250. The Rolex Submariner saves you $4,050 (40% less), a meaningful difference for most buyers. On the secondary market, the gap narrows: the Rolex Datejust 31 trades around $13,585 and the Rolex Submariner around $13,500, a difference of $85 favoring the Rolex Submariner. Currently holding steady at just 5% below retail, this watch retains most of its value on the secondary market. The Rolex Submariner commands an even stronger market premium of +31.7%, with upward momentum. For investors, the Rolex Submariner edges ahead with a flip potential score of 7/10 compared to 4/10.
Specifications
| Specification | Rolex Datejust 31 | Rolex Submariner |
|---|---|---|
| Case Diameter | 31mm | 41mm |
| Case Thickness | 11.3mm | 11.4mm |
| Case Material | Oystersteel and 18ct Everose gold | Oystersteel |
| Bezel | 18ct Everose gold, fluted | Cerachrom (ceramic) in black |
| Crystal | Sapphire with Cyclops lens | Sapphire |
| Water Resistance | 100m / 330ft | 300m / 1000ft |
| Movement | Rolex calibre 2236 | Rolex calibre 3230 |
| Movement Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Power Reserve | 55 hours | 70 hours |
| Bracelet/Strap | Jubilee, five-piece links in Oystersteel and 18ct Everose gold | Oyster, three-piece solid links |
| Clasp | Oysterclasp with Easylink 5mm comfort extension | Oysterlock safety clasp with Glidelock extension system |
| Lug Width | 16mm | 21mm |
Key specification differences stand out between these two: The Rolex Submariner leads in water resistance (300m / 1000ft vs. 100m / 330ft), and the Rolex Submariner offers longer power reserve at 70 hours, and the Rolex Datejust 31 uses Oystersteel and 18ct Everose gold while the Rolex Submariner 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 Datejust 31 costs $438 versus $329 for the Rolex Submariner. For water resistance, the Rolex Submariner delivers better value per meter of depth rating. The Rolex Submariner offers more power reserve per dollar spent.
Which Should You Buy?
Choose the Rolex Datejust 31 if you value the Rolex heritage. Go with the Rolex Submariner if you prioritize a lower entry price, stronger flip potential, better value retention. For pure investment potential, the Rolex Submariner has the edge based on current market data.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is more affordable, the Rolex Datejust 31 or the Rolex Submariner?
The Rolex Submariner is more accessible, priced at $10,250 compared to $14,300.
Which watch is a better investment?
Based on current market data, the Rolex Submariner has a higher flip potential score of 7/10, 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 currently trades at 31.7% above retail, indicating strong value retention on the pre-owned market.
How do the Rolex Datejust 31 and Rolex Submariner compare in size?
The Rolex Datejust 31 measures 31mm in diameter and 11.3mm thick, while the Rolex Submariner is 41mm by 11.4mm. Water resistance differs too: 100m / 330ft versus 300m / 1000ft.
What movements do these watches use?
The Rolex Datejust 31 uses the Rolex calibre 2236 with 55 hours power reserve, while the Rolex Submariner runs on the Rolex calibre 3230 offering 70 hours of power reserve.