Rolex GMT-Master II vs Tudor Submariner
Ref. M126711CHNR-0002 vs Ref. 94010
The Rolex GMT-Master 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 GMT-Master II priced at $18,800 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
GMT-Master II
Tudor
Submariner
The Rolex GMT-Master II is priced at $18,800 while the Tudor Submariner comes in at ~$12,000 (market value). On the secondary market, the gap narrows: the Rolex GMT-Master II trades around $28,200 and the Tudor Submariner around $12,000, a difference of $16,200 favoring the Tudor Submariner. This watch trades at 50% 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 GMT-Master II | Tudor Submariner |
|---|---|---|
| Case Diameter | 40mm | 40mm |
| Case Thickness | 13.1mm | 12.5mm |
| Case Material | Oystersteel and 18ct Everose gold | Stainless steel |
| Bezel | Cerachrom (ceramic) in brown and black | Unidirectional rotating bezel with aluminum insert in black |
| Crystal | Sapphire with Cyclops lens | Acrylic (Plexiglas) |
| Water Resistance | 100m / 330ft | 200m / 660ft |
| Movement | Rolex calibre 3285 | Tudor Calibre 2784 (based on ETA 2784) |
| Movement Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Power Reserve | 70 hours | 44 hours |
| Bracelet/Strap | Jubilee, five-piece links in Oystersteel and 18ct Everose gold | Stainless steel Oyster-style bracelet with folded links |
| Clasp | Oysterclasp with Easylink 5mm comfort extension | Folding clasp with diver extension |
| Lug Width | 20mm | 20mm |
Key specification differences stand out between these two: The Tudor Submariner leads in water resistance (200m / 660ft vs. 100m / 330ft), and the Rolex GMT-Master II offers longer power reserve at 70 hours, and the Rolex GMT-Master II uses Oystersteel and 18ct Everose gold 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 GMT-Master II costs $705 versus $300 for the Tudor Submariner. For water resistance, the Tudor Submariner delivers better value per meter of depth rating. The Tudor Submariner offers more power reserve per dollar spent.
Which Should You Buy?
Choose the Rolex GMT-Master II if you value the Rolex heritage. Go with the Tudor Submariner if you prioritize a lower entry price, better value retention, serious diving capabilities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is more affordable, the Rolex GMT-Master II or the Tudor Submariner?
The Tudor Submariner is more accessible, priced at ~$12,000 (market value) compared to $18,800.
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 GMT-Master II and Tudor Submariner compare in size?
The Rolex GMT-Master II measures 40mm in diameter and 13.1mm 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 GMT-Master II uses the Rolex calibre 3285 with 70 hours power reserve, while the Tudor Submariner runs on the Tudor Calibre 2784 (based on ETA 2784) offering 44 hours of power reserve.