Rolex Day-Date 40 vs Rolex Submariner
Ref. M228349RBR-0003 vs Ref. 5513
Comparing the Rolex Submariner to the Rolex Day-Date 40 means weighing a significant price difference — is the premium justified? At $71,200 versus ~$22,000 (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 40
Rolex
Submariner
The Rolex Day-Date 40 is priced at $71,200 while the Rolex Submariner comes in at ~$22,000 (market value). On the secondary market, the gap narrows: the Rolex Day-Date 40 trades around $74,760 and the Rolex Submariner around $22,000, a difference of $52,760 favoring the Rolex Submariner. Trading at 5% above retail and holding steady, this model holds its value well on the pre-owned market. The Rolex Submariner shows a more modest market premium of 0.0%, with upward momentum. For investors, the Rolex Submariner edges ahead with a flip potential score of 6/10 compared to 5/10.
Specifications
| Specification | Rolex Day-Date 40 | Rolex Submariner |
|---|---|---|
| Case Diameter | 40mm | 40mm |
| Case Thickness | 12.4mm | 12.5mm |
| Case Material | 18ct white gold | Stainless steel |
| Bezel | 18ct white gold, set with diamonds | Stainless steel with aluminum insert in black |
| Crystal | Sapphire with Cyclops lens | Acrylic |
| Water Resistance | 100m / 330ft | 200m / 660ft |
| Movement | Rolex calibre 3255 | Rolex calibre 1520 |
| Movement Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Power Reserve | 70 hours | 48 hours |
| Bracelet/Strap | President, three-piece semi-circular links | Oyster, folded or solid links (varies by year) |
| Clasp | Concealed folding Crownclasp | Oyster folding clasp |
| Lug Width | 20mm | 20mm |
Key specification differences stand out between these two: The Rolex Submariner leads in water resistance (200m / 660ft vs. 100m / 330ft), and the Rolex Day-Date 40 offers longer power reserve at 70 hours, and the Rolex Day-Date 40 uses 18ct white gold while the Rolex Submariner 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 40 costs $1,869 versus $550 for the Rolex Submariner. For water resistance, the Rolex Submariner delivers better value per meter of depth rating. The Rolex Submariner offers more power reserve per dollar spent.
Which Should You Buy?
Choose the Rolex Day-Date 40 if you value better value retention. Go with the Rolex Submariner if you prioritize a lower entry price, stronger flip potential, serious diving capabilities. For pure investment potential, the Rolex Submariner has the edge based on current market data.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is more affordable, the Rolex Day-Date 40 or the Rolex Submariner?
The Rolex Submariner is more accessible, priced at ~$22,000 (market value) compared to $71,200.
Which watch is a better investment?
Based on current market data, the Rolex Submariner 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 40 currently trades at 5.0% above retail, indicating strong value retention on the pre-owned market.
How do the Rolex Day-Date 40 and Rolex Submariner compare in size?
The Rolex Day-Date 40 measures 40mm in diameter and 12.4mm thick, while the Rolex Submariner is 40mm by 12.5mm. Water resistance differs too: 100m / 330ft versus 200m / 660ft.
What movements do these watches use?
The Rolex Day-Date 40 uses the Rolex calibre 3255 with 70 hours power reserve, while the Rolex Submariner runs on the Rolex calibre 1520 offering 48 hours of power reserve.