Rolex Explorer II vs Rolex Submariner
Ref. M226570-0001 vs Ref. M124060-0001
The Rolex Explorer II and Rolex Submariner both carry the Rolex name but serve different purposes — the Rolex Explorer II as a field watch and the Rolex Submariner as a dive watch. At $10,750 and $10,250 respectively, the question isn't which is better — it's which better fits your collection and investment goals.
Price Comparison
Rolex
Explorer II
Rolex
Submariner
At retail, the Rolex Explorer II is listed at $10,750 while the Rolex Submariner comes in at $10,250. The Rolex Submariner saves you $500 (5% less), a meaningful difference for most buyers. On the secondary market, the gap widens: the Rolex Explorer II trades around $12,500 and the Rolex Submariner around $13,500, a difference of $1,000 favoring the Rolex Explorer II. Trading at 16% above retail and holding steady, this model holds its value well on the pre-owned market. The Rolex Submariner commands an even stronger market premium of +31.7%, with upward momentum. For investors, the Rolex Submariner edges ahead with a flip potential score of 7/10 compared to 5/10.
Specifications
| Specification | Rolex Explorer II | Rolex Submariner |
|---|---|---|
| Case Diameter | 42mm | 41mm |
| Case Thickness | 13.0mm | 11.4mm |
| Case Material | Oystersteel | Oystersteel |
| Bezel | Oystersteel, fixed 24-hour graduated bezel | Cerachrom (ceramic) in black |
| Crystal | Sapphire with Cyclops lens | Sapphire |
| Water Resistance | 100m / 330ft | 300m / 1000ft |
| Movement | Rolex calibre 3285 | Rolex calibre 3230 |
| 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 Glidelock extension system |
| Lug Width | 21mm | 21mm |
Key specification differences stand out between these two: The Rolex Submariner leads in water resistance (300m / 1000ft 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 II costs $298 versus $329 for the Rolex Submariner. For water resistance, the Rolex 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 Rolex Submariner if you prioritize a lower entry price, stronger flip potential, better value retention. For pure investment potential, the Rolex Submariner has the edge based on current market data.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is more affordable, the Rolex Explorer II or the Rolex Submariner?
The Rolex Submariner is more accessible, priced at $10,250 compared to $10,750.
Which watch is a better investment?
Based on current market data, the Rolex Submariner has a higher flip potential score of 7/10, suggesting stronger investment returns. However, watch values can fluctuate based on market conditions.
Which holds its value better on the secondary market?
The Rolex Submariner currently trades at 31.7% above retail, indicating strong value retention on the pre-owned market.
How do the Rolex Explorer II and Rolex Submariner compare in size?
The Rolex Explorer II measures 42mm in diameter and 13.0mm thick, while the Rolex Submariner is 41mm by 11.4mm. Water resistance differs too: 100m / 330ft versus 300m / 1000ft.
What movements do these watches use?
The Rolex Explorer II uses the Rolex calibre 3285 with 70 hours power reserve, while the Rolex Submariner runs on the Rolex calibre 3230 offering 70 hours of power reserve.