Rolex Day-Date 36 vs Rolex Submariner Date
Ref. M128239-0071 vs Ref. 1680
Comparing the Rolex Submariner Date to the Rolex Day-Date 36 means weighing a significant price difference — is the premium justified? At $41,250 versus ~$35,000 (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
Day-Date 36
Rolex
Submariner Date
The Rolex Day-Date 36 is priced at $41,250 while the Rolex Submariner Date comes in at ~$35,000 (market value). On the secondary market, the gap narrows: the Rolex Day-Date 36 trades around $43,313 and the Rolex Submariner Date around $35,000, a difference of $8,313 favoring the Rolex Submariner Date. Trading at 5% above retail and holding steady, this model holds its value well on the pre-owned market. The Rolex Submariner Date shows a more modest 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 5/10.
Specifications
| Specification | Rolex Day-Date 36 | Rolex Submariner Date |
|---|---|---|
| Case Diameter | 36mm | 40mm |
| Case Thickness | 12.1mm | 12.5mm |
| Case Material | 18ct white gold | Stainless steel |
| Bezel | 18ct white gold, fluted | Stainless steel with aluminum insert in black |
| Crystal | Sapphire with Cyclops lens | Acrylic with Cyclops lens |
| Water Resistance | 100m / 330ft | 200m / 660ft |
| Movement | Rolex calibre 3255 | Rolex calibre 1570 |
| Movement Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Power Reserve | 70 hours | 48 hours |
| Bracelet/Strap | President, three-piece semi-circular links | Oyster, folded links |
| Clasp | Concealed folding Crownclasp | Oyster folding clasp |
| Lug Width | 20mm | 20mm |
Key specification differences stand out between these two: The Rolex Submariner Date leads in water resistance (200m / 660ft vs. 100m / 330ft), and the Rolex Day-Date 36 offers longer power reserve at 70 hours, and the Rolex Day-Date 36 uses 18ct white gold while the Rolex Submariner Date opts for Stainless steel. 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 Day-Date 36 costs $1,203 versus $875 for the Rolex Submariner Date. For water resistance, the Rolex Submariner Date delivers better value per meter of depth rating. The Rolex Day-Date 36 offers more power reserve per dollar spent.
Which Should You Buy?
Choose the Rolex Day-Date 36 if you value better value retention. Go with the Rolex Submariner Date if you prioritize a lower entry price, stronger flip potential, 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 Day-Date 36 or the Rolex Submariner Date?
The Rolex Submariner Date is more accessible, priced at ~$35,000 (market value) compared to $41,250.
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 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 Rolex Submariner Date compare in size?
The Rolex Day-Date 36 measures 36mm in diameter and 12.1mm thick, while the Rolex Submariner Date is 40mm by 12.5mm. Water resistance differs too: 100m / 330ft versus 200m / 660ft.
What movements do these watches use?
The Rolex Day-Date 36 uses the Rolex calibre 3255 with 70 hours power reserve, while the Rolex Submariner Date runs on the Rolex calibre 1570 offering 48 hours of power reserve.