Rolex Sea-Dweller vs Tudor Black Bay
Ref. 116600 vs Ref. M79210CNU-0001
The Rolex Sea-Dweller and Tudor Black Bay represent one of the most compelling matchups in luxury watches — a sibling rivalry between two brands under the same parent company. With the Rolex Sea-Dweller priced at ~$18,000 (market value) and the Tudor Black Bay at $3,700, 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
Sea-Dweller
Tudor
Black Bay
The Rolex Sea-Dweller is priced at ~$18,000 (market value) while the Tudor Black Bay comes in at $3,700. On the secondary market, the gap widens: the Rolex Sea-Dweller trades around $18,000 and the Tudor Black Bay around $3,330, a difference of $14,670 favoring the Tudor Black Bay. This watch trades at 59% above retail on the secondary market and is trending upward — a strong indicator of collector demand. The Tudor Black Bay shows a more modest market premium of -10.0%, holding steady. For investors, the Rolex Sea-Dweller edges ahead with a flip potential score of 9/10 compared to 2/10.
Specifications
| Specification | Rolex Sea-Dweller | Tudor Black Bay |
|---|---|---|
| Case Diameter | 40mm | 41mm |
| Case Thickness | 14.5mm | 12.7mm |
| Case Material | Oystersteel | Stainless steel |
| Bezel | Cerachrom (ceramic) in black | Unidirectional rotating bezel with anodized aluminium insert in blue |
| Crystal | Sapphire | Domed sapphire crystal |
| Water Resistance | 1220m / 4000ft | 200m / 660ft |
| Movement | Rolex calibre 3135 | Tudor Calibre MT5602 |
| Movement Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Power Reserve | 48 hours | 70 hours |
| Bracelet/Strap | Oyster, three-piece solid links | Fabric NATO strap in blue |
| Clasp | Oysterlock safety clasp with Fliplock extension and Glidelock extension system | Buckle |
| Lug Width | 22mm | 22mm |
Key specification differences stand out between these two: The Rolex Sea-Dweller leads in water resistance (1220m / 4000ft vs. 200m / 660ft), and the Tudor Black Bay offers longer power reserve at 70 hours, and the Rolex Sea-Dweller uses Oystersteel while the Tudor Black Bay 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 Sea-Dweller costs $450 versus $81 for the Tudor Black Bay. For water resistance, the Rolex Sea-Dweller delivers better value per meter of depth rating. The Tudor Black Bay offers more power reserve per dollar spent.
Which Should You Buy?
Choose the Rolex Sea-Dweller if you value a lower entry price, stronger flip potential, better value retention. Go with the Tudor Black Bay if you prioritize serious diving capabilities. For pure investment potential, the Rolex Sea-Dweller has the edge based on current market data.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is more affordable, the Rolex Sea-Dweller or the Tudor Black Bay?
The Tudor Black Bay is more accessible, priced at $3,700 compared to ~$18,000 (market value).
Which watch is a better investment?
Based on current market data, the Rolex Sea-Dweller has a higher flip potential score of 9/10, suggesting stronger investment returns. However, watch values can fluctuate based on market conditions.
Which holds its value better on the secondary market?
The Rolex Sea-Dweller currently trades at 58.6% above retail, indicating strong value retention on the pre-owned market.
How do the Rolex Sea-Dweller and Tudor Black Bay compare in size?
The Rolex Sea-Dweller measures 40mm in diameter and 14.5mm thick, while the Tudor Black Bay is 41mm by 12.7mm. Water resistance differs too: 1220m / 4000ft versus 200m / 660ft.
What movements do these watches use?
The Rolex Sea-Dweller uses the Rolex calibre 3135 with 48 hours power reserve, while the Tudor Black Bay runs on the Tudor Calibre MT5602 offering 70 hours of power reserve.