Rolex Deepsea Challenge vs Tudor Submariner
Ref. M126067-0001 vs Ref. 79090
The Rolex Deepsea Challenge and Tudor Submariner represent one of the most compelling matchups in luxury watches — a sibling rivalry between two brands under the same parent company. With the Rolex Deepsea Challenge priced at $26,000 and the Tudor Submariner at ~$7,000 (market value), 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
Deepsea Challenge
Tudor
Submariner
The Rolex Deepsea Challenge is priced at $26,000 while the Tudor Submariner comes in at ~$7,000 (market value). On the secondary market, the gap narrows: the Rolex Deepsea Challenge trades around $29,900 and the Tudor Submariner around $7,000, a difference of $22,900 favoring the Tudor Submariner. Trading at 15% above retail and holding steady, this model holds its value well on the pre-owned market. The Tudor Submariner commands an even stronger market premium of +366.7%, with upward momentum. For investors, the Tudor Submariner edges ahead with a flip potential score of 8/10 compared to 5/10.
Specifications
| Specification | Rolex Deepsea Challenge | Tudor Submariner |
|---|---|---|
| Case Diameter | 50mm | 40mm |
| Case Thickness | 23.0mm | 12.5mm |
| Case Material | RLX titanium | Stainless steel |
| Bezel | Cerachrom (ceramic) in black | Unidirectional rotating bezel with aluminum insert in black |
| Crystal | Sapphire, 9.5mm thick | Sapphire crystal |
| Water Resistance | 11000m / 36090ft | 200m / 660ft |
| Movement | Rolex calibre 3230 | ETA 2824-2 |
| Movement Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Power Reserve | 70 hours | 38 hours |
| Bracelet/Strap | Oyster, three-piece solid links in RLX titanium | Stainless steel Oyster-style bracelet |
| Clasp | Oysterlock safety clasp with Fliplock extension and Glidelock extension system | Folding clasp with diver extension |
| Lug Width | 22mm | 20mm |
Key specification differences stand out between these two: The Rolex Deepsea Challenge leads in water resistance (11000m / 36090ft vs. 200m / 660ft), and the Rolex Deepsea Challenge offers longer power reserve at 70 hours, and the Rolex Deepsea Challenge uses RLX titanium while the Tudor Submariner 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 Deepsea Challenge costs $598 versus $175 for the Tudor Submariner. For water resistance, the Rolex Deepsea Challenge delivers better value per meter of depth rating. The Tudor Submariner offers more power reserve per dollar spent.
Which Should You Buy?
Choose the Rolex Deepsea Challenge if you value serious diving capabilities. Go with the Tudor Submariner if you prioritize a lower entry price, stronger flip potential, better value retention. For pure investment potential, the Tudor Submariner has the edge based on current market data.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is more affordable, the Rolex Deepsea Challenge or the Tudor Submariner?
The Tudor Submariner is more accessible, priced at ~$7,000 (market value) compared to $26,000.
Which watch is a better investment?
Based on current market data, the Tudor Submariner has a higher flip potential score of 8/10, suggesting stronger investment returns. However, watch values can fluctuate based on market conditions.
Which holds its value better on the secondary market?
The Tudor Submariner currently trades at 366.7% above retail, indicating strong value retention on the pre-owned market.
How do the Rolex Deepsea Challenge and Tudor Submariner compare in size?
The Rolex Deepsea Challenge measures 50mm in diameter and 23.0mm thick, while the Tudor Submariner is 40mm by 12.5mm. Water resistance differs too: 11000m / 36090ft versus 200m / 660ft.
What movements do these watches use?
The Rolex Deepsea Challenge uses the Rolex calibre 3230 with 70 hours power reserve, while the Tudor Submariner runs on the ETA 2824-2 offering 38 hours of power reserve.