Rolex GMT-Master II vs Rolex Submariner Date
Ref. 16710 vs Ref. 126610LN
Comparing the Rolex GMT-Master II to the Rolex Submariner Date means weighing a significant price difference — is the premium justified? At ~$17,000 (market value) versus $11,350, 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 II
Rolex
Submariner Date
The Rolex GMT-Master II is priced at ~$17,000 (market value) while the Rolex Submariner Date comes in at $11,350. On the secondary market, the gap narrows: the Rolex GMT-Master II trades around $17,000 and the Rolex Submariner Date around $14,000, a difference of $3,000 favoring the Rolex Submariner Date. Currently trending upward at just 0% below retail, this watch retains most of its value on the secondary market. The Rolex Submariner Date commands an even stronger market premium of +23.3%, 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 II | Rolex Submariner Date |
|---|---|---|
| Case Diameter | 40mm | 41mm |
| Case Thickness | 12.0mm | 12.5mm |
| Case Material | Stainless steel | Oystersteel |
| Bezel | Stainless steel with aluminum insert (blue/red, black/red, or black) | Cerachrom (ceramic) in black |
| Crystal | Sapphire with Cyclops lens | Sapphire with Cyclops lens |
| Water Resistance | 100m / 330ft | 300m / 1000ft |
| Movement | Rolex calibre 3185 | Rolex calibre 3235 |
| Movement Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Power Reserve | 48 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 | 20mm | 21mm |
Key specification differences stand out between these two: The Rolex Submariner Date leads in water resistance (300m / 1000ft vs. 100m / 330ft), and the Rolex Submariner Date offers longer power reserve at 70 hours, and the Rolex GMT-Master II uses Stainless steel while the Rolex Submariner Date opts for Oystersteel. With 6 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 $425 versus $341 for the Rolex Submariner Date. For water resistance, the Rolex Submariner Date delivers better value per meter of depth rating. The Rolex Submariner Date offers more power reserve per dollar spent.
Which Should You Buy?
Choose the Rolex GMT-Master II if you value a lower entry price. Go with the Rolex Submariner Date if you prioritize better value retention, serious diving capabilities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is more affordable, the Rolex GMT-Master II or the Rolex Submariner Date?
The Rolex Submariner Date is more accessible, priced at $11,350 compared to ~$17,000 (market value).
Which holds its value better on the secondary market?
The Rolex Submariner Date currently trades at 23.3% above retail, indicating strong value retention on the pre-owned market.
How do the Rolex GMT-Master II and Rolex Submariner Date compare in size?
The Rolex GMT-Master II measures 40mm in diameter and 12.0mm thick, while the Rolex Submariner Date is 41mm by 12.5mm. Water resistance differs too: 100m / 330ft versus 300m / 1000ft.
What movements do these watches use?
The Rolex GMT-Master II uses the Rolex calibre 3185 with 48 hours power reserve, while the Rolex Submariner Date runs on the Rolex calibre 3235 offering 70 hours of power reserve.