Rolex Day-Date 36 vs Tudor 1926
Ref. M128238-0113 vs Ref. M91650-0002
The Rolex Day-Date 36 and Tudor 1926 represent one of the most compelling matchups in luxury watches — a sibling rivalry between two brands under the same parent company. With the Rolex Day-Date 36 priced at $38,350 and the Tudor 1926 at $2,475, the price gap raises a critical question: does the extra investment in the pricier option deliver proportional value? We break down the specs, market performance, and flip potential to help you decide.
Price Comparison
Rolex
Day-Date 36
Tudor
1926
At retail, the Rolex Day-Date 36 is listed at $38,350 while the Tudor 1926 comes in at $2,475. The Tudor 1926 comes in at $35,875 less — more than half the price difference — making it a significantly more accessible option. On the secondary market, the gap widens: the Rolex Day-Date 36 trades around $40,268 and the Tudor 1926 around $2,200, a difference of $38,068 favoring the Tudor 1926. Trading at 5% above retail and holding steady, this model holds its value well on the pre-owned market. The Tudor 1926 shows a more modest market premium of -11.1%, though currently trending downward. For investors, the Rolex Day-Date 36 edges ahead with a flip potential score of 5/10 compared to 2/10.
Specifications
| Specification | Rolex Day-Date 36 | Tudor 1926 |
|---|---|---|
| Case Diameter | 36mm | 41mm |
| Case Thickness | 12.1mm | 10.5mm |
| Case Material | 18ct yellow gold | Stainless steel |
| Bezel | 18ct yellow gold, fluted | Stainless steel, polished with ridge detail |
| Crystal | Sapphire with Cyclops lens | Sapphire crystal |
| Water Resistance | 100m / 330ft | 100m / 330ft |
| Movement | Rolex calibre 3255 | Tudor Calibre T601 |
| Movement Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Power Reserve | 70 hours | 38 hours |
| Bracelet/Strap | President, three-piece semi-circular links | Stainless steel bracelet |
| Clasp | Concealed folding Crownclasp | Folding clasp with safety catch |
| Lug Width | 20mm | 22mm |
Key specification differences stand out between these two: the Rolex Day-Date 36 offers longer power reserve at 70 hours, and the Rolex Day-Date 36 uses 18ct yellow gold while the Tudor 1926 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 Day-Date 36 costs $1,119 versus $54 for the Tudor 1926. For water resistance, the Tudor 1926 delivers better value per meter of depth rating. The Tudor 1926 offers more power reserve per dollar spent.
Which Should You Buy?
Choose the Rolex Day-Date 36 if you value stronger flip potential, better value retention. Go with the Tudor 1926 if you prioritize a lower entry price. For pure investment potential, the Rolex Day-Date 36 has the edge based on current market data.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is more affordable, the Rolex Day-Date 36 or the Tudor 1926?
The Tudor 1926 is more accessible, priced at $2,475 compared to $38,350.
Which watch is a better investment?
Based on current market data, the Rolex Day-Date 36 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 Day-Date 36 currently trades at 5.0% above retail, indicating strong value retention on the pre-owned market.
How do the Rolex Day-Date 36 and Tudor 1926 compare in size?
The Rolex Day-Date 36 measures 36mm in diameter and 12.1mm thick, while the Tudor 1926 is 41mm by 10.5mm.
What movements do these watches use?
The Rolex Day-Date 36 uses the Rolex calibre 3255 with 70 hours power reserve, while the Tudor 1926 runs on the Tudor Calibre T601 offering 38 hours of power reserve.