Rolex Explorer II vs Tudor Submariner
Ref. 216570 vs Ref. 94010
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 ~$12,000 (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 ~$12,000 (market value). On the secondary market, the gap stays consistent: the Rolex Explorer II trades around $12,000 and the Tudor Submariner around $12,000, a difference of — 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 +1311.8%, 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 | Acrylic (Plexiglas) |
| Water Resistance | 100m / 330ft | 200m / 660ft |
| Movement | Rolex calibre 3187 | Tudor Calibre 2784 (based on ETA 2784) |
| Movement Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Power Reserve | 48 hours | 44 hours |
| Bracelet/Strap | Oyster, three-piece solid links | Stainless steel Oyster-style bracelet with folded links |
| 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 $300 for the Tudor Submariner. For water resistance, the Tudor Submariner 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 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 Rolex Explorer II is more accessible, priced at ~$12,000 (market value) compared to ~$12,000 (market value).
Which holds its value better on the secondary market?
The Tudor Submariner currently trades at 1311.8% 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 Tudor Calibre 2784 (based on ETA 2784) offering 44 hours of power reserve.