Rolex Explorer II vs Rolex Submariner Date
Ref. 216570 vs Ref. M126613LB-0002
Comparing the Rolex Explorer II to the Rolex Submariner Date means weighing a significant price difference — is the premium justified? At ~$12,000 (market value) versus $17,550, 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 II
Rolex
Submariner Date
The Rolex Explorer II is priced at ~$12,000 (market value) while the Rolex Submariner Date comes in at $17,550. On the secondary market, the gap narrows: the Rolex Explorer II trades around $12,000 and the Rolex Submariner Date around $18,500, a difference of $6,500 favoring the Rolex Explorer II. This watch trades at 31% above retail on the secondary market and is trending upward — a strong indicator of collector demand. The Rolex Submariner Date also shows a healthy market premium of +5.4%, holding steady. For investors, the Rolex Explorer II edges ahead with a flip potential score of 8/10 compared to 5/10.
Specifications
| Specification | Rolex Explorer II | Rolex Submariner Date |
|---|---|---|
| Case Diameter | 42mm | 41mm |
| Case Thickness | 12.5mm | 12.5mm |
| Case Material | Oystersteel | Oystersteel and 18ct yellow gold |
| Bezel | Oystersteel, fixed 24-hour graduated bezel | Cerachrom (ceramic) in blue |
| Crystal | Sapphire with Cyclops lens | Sapphire with Cyclops lens |
| Water Resistance | 100m / 330ft | 300m / 1000ft |
| Movement | Rolex calibre 3187 | Rolex calibre 3235 |
| Movement Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Power Reserve | 48 hours | 70 hours |
| Bracelet/Strap | Oyster, three-piece solid links | Oyster, three-piece solid links in Oystersteel and 18ct yellow gold |
| Clasp | Oysterclasp with Easylink 5mm comfort extension | Oysterlock safety clasp with Glidelock extension system |
| Lug Width | 21mm | 21mm |
Key specification differences stand out between these two: The Rolex Submariner Date leads in water resistance (300m / 1000ft vs. 100m / 330ft), and the Rolex Submariner Date offers longer power reserve at 70 hours, and the Rolex Explorer II uses Oystersteel while the Rolex Submariner Date opts for Oystersteel and 18ct yellow gold. With 6 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 II costs $286 versus $451 for the Rolex Submariner Date. For water resistance, the Rolex Submariner Date delivers better value per meter of depth rating. The Rolex Explorer II offers more power reserve per dollar spent.
Which Should You Buy?
Choose the Rolex Explorer II if you value a lower entry price, stronger flip potential, better value retention. Go with the Rolex Submariner Date if you prioritize serious diving capabilities. For pure investment potential, the Rolex Explorer II has the edge based on current market data.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is more affordable, the Rolex Explorer II or the Rolex Submariner Date?
The Rolex Explorer II is more accessible, priced at ~$12,000 (market value) compared to $17,550.
Which watch is a better investment?
Based on current market data, the Rolex Explorer II 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 Rolex Explorer II currently trades at 31.1% above retail, indicating strong value retention on the pre-owned market.
How do the Rolex Explorer II and Rolex Submariner Date compare in size?
The Rolex Explorer II measures 42mm in diameter and 12.5mm thick, while the Rolex Submariner Date is 41mm by 12.5mm. Water resistance differs too: 100m / 330ft versus 300m / 1000ft.
What movements do these watches use?
The Rolex Explorer II uses the Rolex calibre 3187 with 48 hours power reserve, while the Rolex Submariner Date runs on the Rolex calibre 3235 offering 70 hours of power reserve.