Rolex Datejust 31 vs Rolex Submariner Date
Ref. M278274-0018 vs Ref. M126618LB-0002
Comparing the Rolex Datejust 31 to the Rolex Submariner Date means weighing a significant price difference — is the premium justified? At $10,750 versus $42,400, 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
At retail, the Rolex Datejust 31 is listed at $10,750 while the Rolex Submariner Date comes in at $42,400. The Rolex Datejust 31 comes in at $31,650 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 Submariner Date around $41,000, a difference of $31,000 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 Submariner Date commands an even stronger market premium of -3.3%, holding steady. For investors, the Rolex Submariner Date edges ahead with a flip potential score of 4/10 compared to 3/10.
Specifications
| Specification | Rolex Datejust 31 | Rolex Submariner Date |
|---|---|---|
| Case Diameter | 31mm | 41mm |
| Case Thickness | 11.3mm | 12.5mm |
| Case Material | Oystersteel and 18ct white gold | 18ct yellow gold |
| Bezel | 18ct white gold, fluted | Cerachrom (ceramic) in blue |
| Crystal | Sapphire with Cyclops lens | Sapphire with Cyclops lens |
| Water Resistance | 100m / 330ft | 300m / 1000ft |
| 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 in 18ct yellow gold |
| 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 Date leads in water resistance (300m / 1000ft vs. 100m / 330ft), and the Rolex Submariner Date offers longer power reserve at 70 hours, and the Rolex Datejust 31 uses Oystersteel and 18ct white gold while the Rolex Submariner Date opts for 18ct yellow gold. 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 $1,000 for the Rolex Submariner Date. 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 Submariner Date if you prioritize stronger flip potential, better value retention, serious diving capabilities. 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 $42,400.
Which watch is a better investment?
Based on current market data, the Rolex Submariner Date 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 Submariner Date currently trades at 3.3% 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 41mm 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 3235 offering 70 hours of power reserve.