Rolex Rolex Deepsea vs Rolex Submariner
Ref. M136660-0005 vs Ref. 5513
Comparing the Rolex Submariner to the Rolex Rolex Deepsea means weighing a significant price difference — is the premium justified? At $15,200 versus ~$22,000 (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
Rolex Deepsea
Rolex
Submariner
The Rolex Rolex Deepsea is priced at $15,200 while the Rolex Submariner comes in at ~$22,000 (market value). On the secondary market, the gap narrows: the Rolex Rolex Deepsea trades around $16,500 and the Rolex Submariner around $22,000, a difference of $5,500 favoring the Rolex Rolex Deepsea. Trading at 9% above retail and holding steady, this model holds its value well on the pre-owned market. The Rolex Submariner shows a more modest market premium of 0.0%, with upward momentum. For investors, the Rolex Submariner edges ahead with a flip potential score of 6/10 compared to 5/10.
Specifications
| Specification | Rolex Rolex Deepsea | Rolex Submariner |
|---|---|---|
| Case Diameter | 44mm | 40mm |
| Case Thickness | 17.7mm | 12.5mm |
| Case Material | Oystersteel | Stainless steel |
| Bezel | Cerachrom (ceramic) in black | Stainless steel with aluminum insert in black |
| Crystal | Sapphire, 5.5mm thick | Acrylic |
| Water Resistance | 3900m / 12800ft | 200m / 660ft |
| Movement | Rolex calibre 3235 | Rolex calibre 1520 |
| Movement Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Power Reserve | 70 hours | 48 hours |
| Bracelet/Strap | Oyster, three-piece solid links | Oyster, folded or solid links (varies by year) |
| Clasp | Oysterlock safety clasp with Fliplock extension and Glidelock extension system | Oyster folding clasp |
| Lug Width | 22mm | 20mm |
Key specification differences stand out between these two: The Rolex Rolex Deepsea leads in water resistance (3900m / 12800ft vs. 200m / 660ft), and the Rolex Rolex Deepsea offers longer power reserve at 70 hours, and the Rolex Rolex Deepsea uses Oystersteel while the Rolex Submariner opts for Stainless steel. 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 Rolex Deepsea costs $375 versus $550 for the Rolex Submariner. For water resistance, the Rolex Rolex Deepsea delivers better value per meter of depth rating. The Rolex Rolex Deepsea offers more power reserve per dollar spent.
Which Should You Buy?
Choose the Rolex Rolex Deepsea if you value better value retention, serious diving capabilities. Go with the Rolex Submariner if you prioritize a lower entry price, stronger flip potential, serious diving capabilities. For pure investment potential, the Rolex Submariner has the edge based on current market data.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is more affordable, the Rolex Rolex Deepsea or the Rolex Submariner?
The Rolex Rolex Deepsea is more accessible, priced at $15,200 compared to ~$22,000 (market value).
Which watch is a better investment?
Based on current market data, the Rolex Submariner has a higher flip potential score of 6/10, suggesting stronger investment returns. However, watch values can fluctuate based on market conditions.
Which holds its value better on the secondary market?
The Rolex Rolex Deepsea currently trades at 8.6% above retail, indicating strong value retention on the pre-owned market.
How do the Rolex Rolex Deepsea and Rolex Submariner compare in size?
The Rolex Rolex Deepsea measures 44mm in diameter and 17.7mm thick, while the Rolex Submariner is 40mm by 12.5mm. Water resistance differs too: 3900m / 12800ft versus 200m / 660ft.
What movements do these watches use?
The Rolex Rolex Deepsea uses the Rolex calibre 3235 with 70 hours power reserve, while the Rolex Submariner runs on the Rolex calibre 1520 offering 48 hours of power reserve.