Rolex Datejust 31 vs Rolex Rolex Deepsea
Ref. M278274-0018 vs Ref. M136660-0006
The Rolex Datejust 31 and Rolex Rolex Deepsea both carry the Rolex name but serve different purposes — the Rolex Datejust 31 as a dress watch and the Rolex Rolex Deepsea as a dive watch. At $10,750 and $15,200 respectively, the question isn't which is better — it's which better fits your collection and investment goals.
Price Comparison
Rolex
Datejust 31
Rolex
Rolex Deepsea
At retail, the Rolex Datejust 31 is listed at $10,750 while the Rolex Rolex Deepsea comes in at $15,200. The Rolex Datejust 31 saves you $4,450 (41% less), a meaningful difference for most buyers. On the secondary market, the gap widens: the Rolex Datejust 31 trades around $10,000 and the Rolex Rolex Deepsea around $17,480, a difference of $7,480 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 Rolex Deepsea commands an even stronger market premium of +15.0%, holding steady. For investors, the Rolex Rolex Deepsea edges ahead with a flip potential score of 5/10 compared to 3/10.
Specifications
| Specification | Rolex Datejust 31 | Rolex Rolex Deepsea |
|---|---|---|
| Case Diameter | 31mm | 44mm |
| Case Thickness | 11.3mm | 17.7mm |
| Case Material | Oystersteel and 18ct white gold | Oystersteel |
| Bezel | 18ct white gold, fluted | Cerachrom (ceramic) in black |
| Crystal | Sapphire with Cyclops lens | Sapphire, 5.5mm thick |
| Water Resistance | 100m / 330ft | 3900m / 12800ft |
| Movement | Rolex calibre 2236 | Rolex calibre 3235 |
| Movement Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Power Reserve | 55 hours | 70 hours |
| Bracelet/Strap | Jubilee, five-piece links | Oyster, three-piece solid links |
| Clasp | Oysterclasp with Easylink 5mm comfort extension | Oysterlock safety clasp with Fliplock extension and Glidelock extension system |
| Lug Width | 16mm | 22mm |
Key specification differences stand out between these two: The Rolex Rolex Deepsea leads in water resistance (3900m / 12800ft vs. 100m / 330ft), and the Rolex Rolex Deepsea offers longer power reserve at 70 hours, and the Rolex Datejust 31 uses Oystersteel and 18ct white gold while the Rolex Rolex Deepsea 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 $323 versus $397 for the Rolex Rolex Deepsea. For water resistance, the Rolex Rolex Deepsea 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 Rolex Deepsea if you prioritize stronger flip potential, better value retention, serious diving capabilities. For pure investment potential, the Rolex Rolex Deepsea has the edge based on current market data.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is more affordable, the Rolex Datejust 31 or the Rolex Rolex Deepsea?
The Rolex Datejust 31 is more accessible, priced at $10,750 compared to $15,200.
Which watch is a better investment?
Based on current market data, the Rolex Rolex Deepsea 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 Rolex Deepsea currently trades at 15.0% above retail, indicating strong value retention on the pre-owned market.
How do the Rolex Datejust 31 and Rolex Rolex Deepsea compare in size?
The Rolex Datejust 31 measures 31mm in diameter and 11.3mm thick, while the Rolex Rolex Deepsea is 44mm by 17.7mm. Water resistance differs too: 100m / 330ft versus 3900m / 12800ft.
What movements do these watches use?
The Rolex Datejust 31 uses the Rolex calibre 2236 with 55 hours power reserve, while the Rolex Rolex Deepsea runs on the Rolex calibre 3235 offering 70 hours of power reserve.