Rolex Datejust 31 vs Rolex Day-Date 40
Ref. M278274-0018 vs Ref. M228236-0012
Comparing the Rolex Datejust 31 to the Rolex Day-Date 40 means weighing a significant price difference — is the premium justified? At $10,750 versus $67,550, 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
Datejust 31
Rolex
Day-Date 40
At retail, the Rolex Datejust 31 is listed at $10,750 while the Rolex Day-Date 40 comes in at $67,550. The Rolex Datejust 31 comes in at $56,800 less — more than half the price difference — making it a significantly more accessible option. On the secondary market, the gap narrows: the Rolex Datejust 31 trades around $10,000 and the Rolex Day-Date 40 around $65,000, a difference of $55,000 favoring the Rolex Datejust 31. Currently holding steady at just 7% below retail, this watch retains most of its value on the secondary market. The Rolex Day-Date 40 commands an even stronger market premium of -3.8%, holding steady. For investors, the Rolex Day-Date 40 edges ahead with a flip potential score of 4/10 compared to 3/10.
Specifications
| Specification | Rolex Datejust 31 | Rolex Day-Date 40 |
|---|---|---|
| Case Diameter | 31mm | 40mm |
| Case Thickness | 11.3mm | 12.4mm |
| Case Material | Oystersteel and 18ct white gold | 950 platinum |
| Bezel | 18ct white gold, fluted | 950 platinum, smooth |
| Crystal | Sapphire with Cyclops lens | Sapphire with Cyclops lens |
| Water Resistance | 100m / 330ft | 100m / 330ft |
| Movement | Rolex calibre 2236 | Rolex calibre 3255 |
| Movement Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Power Reserve | 55 hours | 70 hours |
| Bracelet/Strap | Jubilee, five-piece links | President, three-piece semi-circular links in 950 platinum |
| Clasp | Oysterclasp with Easylink 5mm comfort extension | Concealed folding Crownclasp |
| Lug Width | 16mm | 20mm |
Key specification differences stand out between these two: the Rolex Day-Date 40 offers longer power reserve at 70 hours, and the Rolex Datejust 31 uses Oystersteel and 18ct white gold while the Rolex Day-Date 40 opts for 950 platinum. 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 Datejust 31 costs $323 versus $1,625 for the Rolex Day-Date 40. For water resistance, the Rolex Datejust 31 delivers better value per meter of depth rating. The Rolex Datejust 31 offers more power reserve per dollar spent.
Which Should You Buy?
Choose the Rolex Datejust 31 if you value a lower entry price. Go with the Rolex Day-Date 40 if you prioritize stronger flip potential, better value retention. For pure investment potential, the Rolex Day-Date 40 has the edge based on current market data.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is more affordable, the Rolex Datejust 31 or the Rolex Day-Date 40?
The Rolex Datejust 31 is more accessible, priced at $10,750 compared to $67,550.
Which watch is a better investment?
Based on current market data, the Rolex Day-Date 40 has a higher flip potential score of 4/10, suggesting stronger investment returns. However, watch values can fluctuate based on market conditions.
Which holds its value better on the secondary market?
The Rolex Day-Date 40 currently trades at 3.8% below retail, indicating moderate value retention on the pre-owned market.
How do the Rolex Datejust 31 and Rolex Day-Date 40 compare in size?
The Rolex Datejust 31 measures 31mm in diameter and 11.3mm thick, while the Rolex Day-Date 40 is 40mm by 12.4mm.
What movements do these watches use?
The Rolex Datejust 31 uses the Rolex calibre 2236 with 55 hours power reserve, while the Rolex Day-Date 40 runs on the Rolex calibre 3255 offering 70 hours of power reserve.