Rolex GMT-Master II vs Tudor Black Bay Chrono S&G
Ref. 116710BLNR vs Ref. M79363N-0002
The Rolex GMT-Master II and Tudor Black Bay Chrono S&G represent one of the most compelling matchups in luxury watches — a sibling rivalry between two brands under the same parent company. With the Rolex GMT-Master II priced at ~$18,000 (market value) and the Tudor Black Bay Chrono S&G at $7,300, 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
GMT-Master II
Tudor
Black Bay Chrono S&G
The Rolex GMT-Master II is priced at ~$18,000 (market value) while the Tudor Black Bay Chrono S&G comes in at $7,300. On the secondary market, the gap widens: the Rolex GMT-Master II trades around $18,000 and the Tudor Black Bay Chrono S&G around $6,935, a difference of $11,065 favoring the Tudor Black Bay Chrono S&G. This watch trades at 86% above retail on the secondary market and is trending upward — a strong indicator of collector demand. The Tudor Black Bay Chrono S&G shows a more modest market premium of -5.0%, holding steady. For investors, the Rolex GMT-Master II edges ahead with a flip potential score of 9/10 compared to 3/10.
Specifications
| Specification | Rolex GMT-Master II | Tudor Black Bay Chrono S&G |
|---|---|---|
| Case Diameter | 40mm | 41mm |
| Case Thickness | 13.0mm | 14.4mm |
| Case Material | Oystersteel | Stainless steel and yellow gold |
| Bezel | Cerachrom (ceramic) in black and blue | Fixed bezel with tachymeter scale in yellow gold |
| Crystal | Sapphire with Cyclops lens | Sapphire crystal |
| Water Resistance | 100m / 330ft | 200m / 660ft |
| Movement | Rolex calibre 3186 | Tudor Calibre MT5813 |
| Movement Type | Automatic | Automatic chronograph |
| Power Reserve | 48 hours | 70 hours |
| Bracelet/Strap | Oyster, three-piece solid links | Stainless steel and yellow gold with riveted-style links |
| Clasp | Oysterclasp with Easylink 5mm comfort extension | Folding clasp with safety catch |
| Lug Width | 20mm | 22mm |
Key specification differences stand out between these two: The Tudor Black Bay Chrono S&G leads in water resistance (200m / 660ft vs. 100m / 330ft), and the Tudor Black Bay Chrono S&G offers longer power reserve at 70 hours, and the Rolex GMT-Master II uses Oystersteel while the Tudor Black Bay Chrono S&G opts for Stainless steel and yellow gold. With 8 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 II costs $450 versus $169 for the Tudor Black Bay Chrono S&G. For water resistance, the Tudor Black Bay Chrono S&G delivers better value per meter of depth rating. The Tudor Black Bay Chrono S&G offers more power reserve per dollar spent.
Which Should You Buy?
Choose the Rolex GMT-Master II if you value a lower entry price, stronger flip potential, better value retention. Go with the Tudor Black Bay Chrono S&G if you prioritize timing functionality. For pure investment potential, the Rolex GMT-Master II has the edge based on current market data.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is more affordable, the Rolex GMT-Master II or the Tudor Black Bay Chrono S&G?
The Tudor Black Bay Chrono S&G is more accessible, priced at $7,300 compared to ~$18,000 (market value).
Which watch is a better investment?
Based on current market data, the Rolex GMT-Master II has a higher flip potential score of 9/10, suggesting stronger investment returns. However, watch values can fluctuate based on market conditions.
Which holds its value better on the secondary market?
The Rolex GMT-Master II currently trades at 85.6% above retail, indicating strong value retention on the pre-owned market.
How do the Rolex GMT-Master II and Tudor Black Bay Chrono S&G compare in size?
The Rolex GMT-Master II measures 40mm in diameter and 13.0mm thick, while the Tudor Black Bay Chrono S&G is 41mm by 14.4mm. Water resistance differs too: 100m / 330ft versus 200m / 660ft.
What movements do these watches use?
The Rolex GMT-Master II uses the Rolex calibre 3186 with 48 hours power reserve, while the Tudor Black Bay Chrono S&G runs on the Tudor Calibre MT5813 offering 70 hours of power reserve.