Rolex Rolex Deepsea vs Rolex Submariner Date
Ref. M136660-0005 vs Ref. M126618LB-0002
Comparing the Rolex Rolex Deepsea to the Rolex Submariner Date means weighing a significant price difference — is the premium justified? At $15,200 versus $42,400, 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 Date
At retail, the Rolex Rolex Deepsea is listed at $15,200 while the Rolex Submariner Date comes in at $42,400. The Rolex Rolex Deepsea comes in at $27,200 less — more than half the price difference — making it a significantly more accessible option. On the secondary market, the gap narrows: the Rolex Rolex Deepsea trades around $16,500 and the Rolex Submariner Date around $41,000, a difference of $24,500 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 Date shows a more modest market premium of -3.3%, holding steady. For investors, the Rolex Rolex Deepsea edges ahead with a flip potential score of 5/10 compared to 4/10.
Specifications
| Specification | Rolex Rolex Deepsea | Rolex Submariner Date |
|---|---|---|
| Case Diameter | 44mm | 41mm |
| Case Thickness | 17.7mm | 12.5mm |
| Case Material | Oystersteel | 18ct yellow gold |
| Bezel | Cerachrom (ceramic) in black | Cerachrom (ceramic) in blue |
| Crystal | Sapphire, 5.5mm thick | Sapphire with Cyclops lens |
| Water Resistance | 3900m / 12800ft | 300m / 1000ft |
| Movement | Rolex calibre 3235 | Rolex calibre 3235 |
| Movement Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Power Reserve | 70 hours | 70 hours |
| Bracelet/Strap | Oyster, three-piece solid links | Oyster, three-piece solid links in 18ct yellow gold |
| Clasp | Oysterlock safety clasp with Fliplock extension and Glidelock extension system | Oysterlock safety clasp with Glidelock extension system |
| Lug Width | 22mm | 21mm |
Key specification differences stand out between these two: The Rolex Rolex Deepsea leads in water resistance (3900m / 12800ft vs. 300m / 1000ft), and the Rolex Rolex Deepsea uses Oystersteel while the Rolex Submariner Date opts for 18ct yellow gold. 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 Rolex Deepsea costs $375 versus $1,000 for the Rolex Submariner Date. 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 a lower entry price, stronger flip potential, better value retention. Go with the Rolex Submariner Date if you prioritize serious diving capabilities. For pure investment potential, the Rolex Rolex Deepsea has the edge based on current market data.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is more affordable, the Rolex Rolex Deepsea or the Rolex Submariner Date?
The Rolex Rolex Deepsea is more accessible, priced at $15,200 compared to $42,400.
Which watch is a better investment?
Based on current market data, the Rolex Rolex Deepsea has a higher flip potential score of 5/10, 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 Date compare in size?
The Rolex Rolex Deepsea measures 44mm in diameter and 17.7mm thick, while the Rolex Submariner Date is 41mm by 12.5mm. Water resistance differs too: 3900m / 12800ft versus 300m / 1000ft.