Rolex Datejust 31 vs Rolex Yacht-Master 37
Ref. M278274-0018 vs Ref. M268622-0002
The Rolex Datejust 31 and Rolex Yacht-Master 37 both carry the Rolex name but serve different purposes — the Rolex Datejust 31 as a dress watch and the Rolex Yacht-Master 37 as a sport watch. At $10,750 and $13,350 respectively, the question isn't which is better — it's which better fits your collection and investment goals.
Price Comparison
Rolex
Datejust 31
Rolex
Yacht-Master 37
At retail, the Rolex Datejust 31 is listed at $10,750 while the Rolex Yacht-Master 37 comes in at $13,350. The Rolex Datejust 31 saves you $2,600 (24% less), a meaningful difference for most buyers. On the secondary market, the gap narrows: the Rolex Datejust 31 trades around $10,000 and the Rolex Yacht-Master 37 around $11,500, a difference of $1,500 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 Yacht-Master 37 shows a more modest market premium of -13.9%, though currently trending downward. Both watches score equally on flip potential at 3/10, making neither a clear investment winner over the other.
Specifications
| Specification | Rolex Datejust 31 | Rolex Yacht-Master 37 |
|---|---|---|
| Case Diameter | 31mm | 37mm |
| Case Thickness | 11.3mm | 11.6mm |
| Case Material | Oystersteel and 18ct white gold | Oystersteel and 950 platinum |
| Bezel | 18ct white gold, fluted | 950 platinum, bidirectional rotatable, sandblasted |
| Crystal | Sapphire with Cyclops lens | Sapphire with Cyclops lens |
| Water Resistance | 100m / 330ft | 100m / 330ft |
| Movement | Rolex calibre 2236 | Rolex calibre 2236 |
| Movement Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Power Reserve | 55 hours | 55 hours |
| Bracelet/Strap | Jubilee, five-piece links | Oyster, three-piece solid links |
| Clasp | Oysterclasp with Easylink 5mm comfort extension | Oysterclasp with Easylink 5mm comfort extension |
| Lug Width | 16mm | 19mm |
Key specification differences stand out between these two: the Rolex Datejust 31 uses Oystersteel and 18ct white gold while the Rolex Yacht-Master 37 opts for Oystersteel and 950 platinum. With 4 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 $311 for the Rolex Yacht-Master 37. 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, better value retention. Go with the Rolex Yacht-Master 37 if you prioritize the Rolex heritage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is more affordable, the Rolex Datejust 31 or the Rolex Yacht-Master 37?
The Rolex Datejust 31 is more accessible, priced at $10,750 compared to $13,350.
Which holds its value better on the secondary market?
The Rolex Datejust 31 currently trades at 7.0% below retail, indicating moderate value retention on the pre-owned market.
How do the Rolex Datejust 31 and Rolex Yacht-Master 37 compare in size?
The Rolex Datejust 31 measures 31mm in diameter and 11.3mm thick, while the Rolex Yacht-Master 37 is 37mm by 11.6mm.