Rolex Explorer vs Rolex Rolex Deepsea
Ref. 1016 vs Ref. M136660-0005
Comparing the Rolex Explorer to the Rolex Rolex Deepsea means weighing a significant price difference — is the premium justified? At ~$42,000 (market value) versus $15,200, 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
Explorer
Rolex
Rolex Deepsea
The Rolex Explorer is priced at ~$42,000 (market value) while the Rolex Rolex Deepsea comes in at $15,200. On the secondary market, the gap widens: the Rolex Explorer trades around $42,000 and the Rolex Rolex Deepsea around $16,500, a difference of $25,500 favoring the Rolex Rolex Deepsea. Currently trending upward at just 0% below retail, this watch retains most of its value on the secondary market. The Rolex Rolex Deepsea commands an even stronger market premium of +8.6%, holding steady. For investors, the Rolex Explorer edges ahead with a flip potential score of 6/10 compared to 5/10.
Specifications
| Specification | Rolex Explorer | Rolex Rolex Deepsea |
|---|---|---|
| Case Diameter | 36mm | 44mm |
| Case Thickness | 11.5mm | 17.7mm |
| Case Material | Stainless steel | Oystersteel |
| Bezel | Stainless steel, smooth | Cerachrom (ceramic) in black |
| Crystal | Acrylic | Sapphire, 5.5mm thick |
| Water Resistance | 100m / 330ft | 3900m / 12800ft |
| Movement | Rolex calibre 1570 | Rolex calibre 3235 |
| Movement Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Power Reserve | 48 hours | 70 hours |
| Bracelet/Strap | Oyster, riveted or folded links (varies by year) | Oyster, three-piece solid links |
| Clasp | Oyster folding clasp | Oysterlock safety clasp with Fliplock extension and Glidelock extension system |
| Lug Width | 20mm | 22mm |
Key specification differences stand out between these two: The Rolex Rolex Deepsea leads in water resistance (3900m / 12800ft vs. 100m / 330ft), and the Rolex Rolex Deepsea offers longer power reserve at 70 hours, and the Rolex Explorer uses Stainless steel while the Rolex Rolex Deepsea opts for Oystersteel. 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 Explorer costs $1,167 versus $375 for the Rolex Rolex Deepsea. For water resistance, the Rolex Rolex Deepsea delivers better value per meter of depth rating. The Rolex Rolex Deepsea offers more power reserve per dollar spent.
Which Should You Buy?
Choose the Rolex Explorer if you value a lower entry price, stronger flip potential. Go with the Rolex Rolex Deepsea if you prioritize better value retention, serious diving capabilities. For pure investment potential, the Rolex Explorer has the edge based on current market data.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is more affordable, the Rolex Explorer or the Rolex Rolex Deepsea?
The Rolex Rolex Deepsea is more accessible, priced at $15,200 compared to ~$42,000 (market value).
Which watch is a better investment?
Based on current market data, the Rolex Explorer 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 Rolex Deepsea currently trades at 8.6% above retail, indicating strong value retention on the pre-owned market.
How do the Rolex Explorer and Rolex Rolex Deepsea compare in size?
The Rolex Explorer measures 36mm in diameter and 11.5mm thick, while the Rolex Rolex Deepsea is 44mm by 17.7mm. Water resistance differs too: 100m / 330ft versus 3900m / 12800ft.
What movements do these watches use?
The Rolex Explorer uses the Rolex calibre 1570 with 48 hours power reserve, while the Rolex Rolex Deepsea runs on the Rolex calibre 3235 offering 70 hours of power reserve.