Rolex Rolex Deepsea vs Rolex Submariner
Ref. M136660-0006 vs Ref. M124060-0001
The Rolex Rolex Deepsea and Rolex Submariner both carry the Rolex name but serve different purposes — the Rolex Rolex Deepsea as a dive watch and the Rolex Submariner as a dive watch. At $15,200 and $10,250 respectively, the question isn't which is better — it's which better fits your collection and investment goals.
Price Comparison
Rolex
Rolex Deepsea
Rolex
Submariner
At retail, the Rolex Rolex Deepsea is listed at $15,200 while the Rolex Submariner comes in at $10,250. The Rolex Submariner saves you $4,950 (48% less), a meaningful difference for most buyers. On the secondary market, the gap narrows: the Rolex Rolex Deepsea trades around $17,480 and the Rolex Submariner around $13,500, a difference of $3,980 favoring the Rolex Submariner. Trading at 15% above retail and holding steady, this model holds its value well on the pre-owned market. The Rolex Submariner commands an even stronger market premium of +31.7%, with upward momentum. For investors, the Rolex Submariner edges ahead with a flip potential score of 7/10 compared to 5/10.
Specifications
| Specification | Rolex Rolex Deepsea | Rolex Submariner |
|---|---|---|
| Case Diameter | 44mm | 41mm |
| Case Thickness | 17.7mm | 11.4mm |
| Case Material | Oystersteel | Oystersteel |
| Bezel | Cerachrom (ceramic) in black | Cerachrom (ceramic) in black |
| Crystal | Sapphire, 5.5mm thick | Sapphire |
| Water Resistance | 3900m / 12800ft | 300m / 1000ft |
| Movement | Rolex calibre 3235 | Rolex calibre 3230 |
| Movement Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Power Reserve | 70 hours | 70 hours |
| Bracelet/Strap | Oyster, three-piece solid links | Oyster, three-piece solid links |
| 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). With 5 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 $397 versus $329 for the Rolex Submariner. For water resistance, the Rolex Rolex Deepsea delivers better value per meter of depth rating. The Rolex Submariner offers more power reserve per dollar spent.
Which Should You Buy?
Choose the Rolex Rolex Deepsea if you value serious diving capabilities. Go with the Rolex Submariner if you prioritize a lower entry price, stronger flip potential, better value retention. 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 Submariner is more accessible, priced at $10,250 compared to $15,200.
Which watch is a better investment?
Based on current market data, the Rolex Submariner has a higher flip potential score of 7/10, suggesting stronger investment returns. However, watch values can fluctuate based on market conditions.
Which holds its value better on the secondary market?
The Rolex Submariner currently trades at 31.7% 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 41mm by 11.4mm. Water resistance differs too: 3900m / 12800ft versus 300m / 1000ft.
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 3230 offering 70 hours of power reserve.