Rolex GMT-Master vs Rolex Submariner
Ref. 1675 vs Ref. 5512
Comparing the Rolex Submariner to the Rolex GMT-Master means weighing a significant price difference — is the premium justified? At ~$32,000 (market value) versus ~$52,000 (market value), 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
GMT-Master
Rolex
Submariner
The Rolex GMT-Master is priced at ~$32,000 (market value) while the Rolex Submariner comes in at ~$52,000 (market value). On the secondary market, the gap widens: the Rolex GMT-Master trades around $32,000 and the Rolex Submariner around $52,000, a difference of $20,000 favoring the Rolex GMT-Master. Currently trending upward at just 0% below retail, this watch retains most of its value on the secondary market. The Rolex Submariner shows a more modest market premium of 0.0%, with upward momentum. Both watches score equally on flip potential at 6/10, making neither a clear investment winner over the other.
Specifications
| Specification | Rolex GMT-Master | Rolex Submariner |
|---|---|---|
| Case Diameter | 40mm | 40mm |
| Case Thickness | 12.0mm | 12.5mm |
| Case Material | Stainless steel | Stainless steel |
| Bezel | Stainless steel with aluminum insert in blue and red | Stainless steel with aluminum insert in black |
| Crystal | Acrylic with Cyclops lens | Acrylic |
| Water Resistance | 50m / 165ft | 200m / 660ft |
| Movement | Rolex calibre 1575 | Rolex calibre 1570 |
| Movement Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Power Reserve | 48 hours | 48 hours |
| Bracelet/Strap | Oyster, folded or riveted links (varies by year) | Oyster, riveted links |
| Clasp | Oyster folding clasp | Oyster folding clasp |
| Lug Width | 20mm | 20mm |
Key specification differences stand out between these two: The Rolex Submariner leads in water resistance (200m / 660ft vs. 50m / 165ft). 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 GMT-Master costs $800 versus $1,300 for the Rolex Submariner. For water resistance, the Rolex Submariner delivers better value per meter of depth rating. The Rolex GMT-Master offers more power reserve per dollar spent.
Which Should You Buy?
Choose the Rolex GMT-Master if you value the Rolex heritage. Go with the Rolex Submariner if you prioritize serious diving capabilities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is more affordable, the Rolex GMT-Master or the Rolex Submariner?
The Rolex GMT-Master is more accessible, priced at ~$32,000 (market value) compared to ~$52,000 (market value).
Which holds its value better on the secondary market?
The Rolex Submariner currently trades at 0.0% below retail, indicating moderate value retention on the pre-owned market.
How do the Rolex GMT-Master and Rolex Submariner compare in size?
The Rolex GMT-Master measures 40mm in diameter and 12.0mm thick, while the Rolex Submariner is 40mm by 12.5mm. Water resistance differs too: 50m / 165ft versus 200m / 660ft.
What movements do these watches use?
The Rolex GMT-Master uses the Rolex calibre 1575 with 48 hours power reserve, while the Rolex Submariner runs on the Rolex calibre 1570 offering 48 hours of power reserve.