Rolex Explorer vs Rolex Rolex Deepsea
Ref. 124270 vs Ref. M136660-0005
The Rolex Explorer and Rolex Rolex Deepsea both carry the Rolex name but serve different purposes — the Rolex Explorer as a field watch and the Rolex Rolex Deepsea as a dive watch. At $7,650 and $15,200 respectively, the question isn't which is better — it's which better fits your collection and investment goals.
Price Comparison
Rolex
Explorer
Rolex
Rolex Deepsea
At retail, the Rolex Explorer is listed at $7,650 while the Rolex Rolex Deepsea comes in at $15,200. At $7,550 less (99% savings), the Rolex Explorer offers a substantially lower entry point. On the secondary market, the gap narrows: the Rolex Explorer trades around $9,500 and the Rolex Rolex Deepsea around $16,500, a difference of $7,000 favoring the Rolex Explorer. This watch trades at 24% above retail on the secondary market and is trending upward — a strong indicator of collector demand. The Rolex Rolex Deepsea also shows a healthy 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 | Oystersteel | Oystersteel |
| Bezel | Oystersteel, smooth | Cerachrom (ceramic) in black |
| Crystal | Sapphire | Sapphire, 5.5mm thick |
| Water Resistance | 100m / 330ft | 3900m / 12800ft |
| Movement | Rolex calibre 3230 | Rolex calibre 3235 |
| Movement Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Power Reserve | 70 hours | 70 hours |
| Bracelet/Strap | Oyster, three-piece solid links | Oyster, three-piece solid links |
| Clasp | Oysterclasp with Easylink 5mm comfort extension | 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). With 5 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 $264 versus $375 for the Rolex Rolex Deepsea. For water resistance, the Rolex Rolex Deepsea delivers better value per meter of depth rating. The Rolex Explorer 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, better value retention. Go with the Rolex Rolex Deepsea if you prioritize 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 Explorer is more accessible, priced at $7,650 compared to $15,200.
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 Explorer currently trades at 24.2% 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 3230 with 70 hours power reserve, while the Rolex Rolex Deepsea runs on the Rolex calibre 3235 offering 70 hours of power reserve.