Rolex Sea-Dweller vs Tudor Submariner
Ref. M126603-0001 vs Ref. 94010
The Rolex Sea-Dweller 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 Sea-Dweller priced at $19,450 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
Sea-Dweller
Tudor
Submariner
The Rolex Sea-Dweller is priced at $19,450 while the Tudor Submariner comes in at ~$12,000 (market value). On the secondary market, the gap narrows: the Rolex Sea-Dweller trades around $24,313 and the Tudor Submariner around $12,000, a difference of $12,313 favoring the Tudor Submariner. This watch trades at 25% 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. For investors, the Tudor Submariner edges ahead with a flip potential score of 8/10 compared to 6/10.
Specifications
| Specification | Rolex Sea-Dweller | Tudor Submariner |
|---|---|---|
| Case Diameter | 43mm | 40mm |
| Case Thickness | 14.7mm | 12.5mm |
| Case Material | Oystersteel and 18ct yellow gold | Stainless steel |
| Bezel | Cerachrom (ceramic) in black | Unidirectional rotating bezel with aluminum insert in black |
| Crystal | Sapphire with Cyclops lens | Acrylic (Plexiglas) |
| Water Resistance | 1220m / 4000ft | 200m / 660ft |
| Movement | Rolex calibre 3235 | Tudor Calibre 2784 (based on ETA 2784) |
| Movement Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Power Reserve | 70 hours | 44 hours |
| Bracelet/Strap | Oyster, three-piece solid links in Oystersteel and 18ct yellow gold | Stainless steel Oyster-style bracelet with folded links |
| Clasp | Oysterlock safety clasp with Fliplock extension and Glidelock extension system | Folding clasp with diver extension |
| Lug Width | 22mm | 20mm |
Key specification differences stand out between these two: The Rolex Sea-Dweller leads in water resistance (1220m / 4000ft vs. 200m / 660ft), and the Rolex Sea-Dweller offers longer power reserve at 70 hours, and the Rolex Sea-Dweller uses Oystersteel and 18ct yellow gold while the Tudor 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 Sea-Dweller costs $565 versus $300 for the Tudor Submariner. For water resistance, the Rolex Sea-Dweller 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 Sea-Dweller if you value serious diving capabilities. Go with the Tudor Submariner if you prioritize a lower entry price, stronger flip potential, better value retention. For pure investment potential, the Tudor Submariner has the edge based on current market data.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is more affordable, the Rolex Sea-Dweller or the Tudor Submariner?
The Tudor Submariner is more accessible, priced at ~$12,000 (market value) compared to $19,450.
Which watch is a better investment?
Based on current market data, the Tudor Submariner has a higher flip potential score of 8/10, suggesting stronger investment returns. However, watch values can fluctuate based on market conditions.
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 Sea-Dweller and Tudor Submariner compare in size?
The Rolex Sea-Dweller measures 43mm in diameter and 14.7mm thick, while the Tudor Submariner is 40mm by 12.5mm. Water resistance differs too: 1220m / 4000ft versus 200m / 660ft.
What movements do these watches use?
The Rolex Sea-Dweller uses the Rolex calibre 3235 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.