Rolex Datejust 31 vs Rolex Submariner Date
Ref. M278274-0018 vs Ref. 16610
Comparing the Rolex Submariner Date to the Rolex Datejust 31 means weighing a significant price difference — is the premium justified? At $10,750 versus ~$12,500 (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
Datejust 31
Rolex
Submariner Date
The Rolex Datejust 31 is priced at $10,750 while the Rolex Submariner Date comes in at ~$12,500 (market value). On the secondary market, the gap narrows: the Rolex Datejust 31 trades around $10,000 and the Rolex Submariner Date around $12,500, a difference of $2,500 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 Submariner Date commands an even stronger market premium of 0.0%, with upward momentum. For investors, the Rolex Submariner Date edges ahead with a flip potential score of 6/10 compared to 3/10.
Specifications
| Specification | Rolex Datejust 31 | Rolex Submariner Date |
|---|---|---|
| Case Diameter | 31mm | 40mm |
| Case Thickness | 11.3mm | 12.5mm |
| Case Material | Oystersteel and 18ct white gold | Stainless steel |
| Bezel | 18ct white gold, fluted | Stainless steel with aluminum insert in black |
| Crystal | Sapphire with Cyclops lens | Sapphire with Cyclops lens |
| Water Resistance | 100m / 330ft | 300m / 1000ft |
| Movement | Rolex calibre 2236 | Rolex calibre 3135 |
| Movement Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Power Reserve | 55 hours | 48 hours |
| Bracelet/Strap | Jubilee, five-piece links | Oyster, three-piece solid links |
| Clasp | Oysterclasp with Easylink 5mm comfort extension | Oysterlock safety clasp with Glidelock extension system (later models) |
| Lug Width | 16mm | 20mm |
Key specification differences stand out between these two: The Rolex Submariner Date leads in water resistance (300m / 1000ft vs. 100m / 330ft), and the Rolex Datejust 31 offers longer power reserve at 55 hours, and the Rolex Datejust 31 uses Oystersteel and 18ct white gold while the Rolex Submariner Date 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 Datejust 31 costs $323 versus $313 for the Rolex Submariner Date. For water resistance, the Rolex Submariner Date 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 the Rolex heritage. Go with the Rolex Submariner Date if you prioritize a lower entry price, stronger flip potential, better value retention. For pure investment potential, the Rolex Submariner Date has the edge based on current market data.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is more affordable, the Rolex Datejust 31 or the Rolex Submariner Date?
The Rolex Datejust 31 is more accessible, priced at $10,750 compared to ~$12,500 (market value).
Which watch is a better investment?
Based on current market data, the Rolex Submariner Date has a higher flip potential score of 6/10, 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 Date currently trades at 0.0% below retail, indicating moderate value retention on the pre-owned market.
How do the Rolex Datejust 31 and Rolex Submariner Date compare in size?
The Rolex Datejust 31 measures 31mm in diameter and 11.3mm thick, while the Rolex Submariner Date is 40mm by 12.5mm. 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 Date runs on the Rolex calibre 3135 offering 48 hours of power reserve.