Rolex Explorer II vs Tudor Submariner
Ref. 216570 vs Ref. 79090
The Rolex Explorer II 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 Explorer II priced at ~$12,000 (market value) 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
Explorer II
Tudor
Submariner
The Rolex Explorer II is priced at ~$12,000 (market value) while the Tudor Submariner comes in at ~$7,000 (market value). On the secondary market, the gap widens: the Rolex Explorer II trades around $12,000 and the Tudor Submariner around $7,000, a difference of $5,000 favoring the Tudor Submariner. This watch trades at 31% above retail on the secondary market and is trending upward — a strong indicator of collector demand. The Tudor Submariner commands an even stronger market premium of +366.7%, with upward momentum. Both watches score equally on flip potential at 8/10, making neither a clear investment winner over the other.
Specifications
| Specification | Rolex Explorer II | Tudor Submariner |
|---|---|---|
| Case Diameter | 42mm | 40mm |
| Case Thickness | 12.5mm | 12.5mm |
| Case Material | Oystersteel | Stainless steel |
| Bezel | Oystersteel, fixed 24-hour graduated bezel | Unidirectional rotating bezel with aluminum insert in black |
| Crystal | Sapphire with Cyclops lens | Sapphire crystal |
| Water Resistance | 100m / 330ft | 200m / 660ft |
| Movement | Rolex calibre 3187 | ETA 2824-2 |
| Movement Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Power Reserve | 48 hours | 38 hours |
| Bracelet/Strap | Oyster, three-piece solid links | Stainless steel Oyster-style bracelet |
| Clasp | Oysterclasp with Easylink 5mm comfort extension | Folding clasp with diver extension |
| Lug Width | 21mm | 20mm |
Key specification differences stand out between these two: The Tudor Submariner leads in water resistance (200m / 660ft vs. 100m / 330ft), and the Rolex Explorer II offers longer power reserve at 48 hours, and the Rolex Explorer II uses Oystersteel while the Tudor 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 Explorer II costs $286 versus $175 for the Tudor Submariner. For water resistance, the Tudor Submariner 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 Explorer II if you value the Rolex heritage. Go with the Tudor Submariner if you prioritize better value retention, serious diving capabilities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is more affordable, the Rolex Explorer II or the Tudor Submariner?
The Tudor Submariner is more accessible, priced at ~$7,000 (market value) compared to ~$12,000 (market value).
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 Explorer II and Tudor Submariner compare in size?
The Rolex Explorer II measures 42mm in diameter and 12.5mm thick, while the Tudor Submariner is 40mm by 12.5mm. Water resistance differs too: 100m / 330ft versus 200m / 660ft.
What movements do these watches use?
The Rolex Explorer II uses the Rolex calibre 3187 with 48 hours power reserve, while the Tudor Submariner runs on the ETA 2824-2 offering 38 hours of power reserve.