Rolex Sky-Dweller vs Rolex Submariner Date
Ref. 336934 vs Ref. 1680
Comparing the Rolex Submariner Date to the Rolex Sky-Dweller means weighing a significant price difference — is the premium justified? At $17,150 versus ~$35,000 (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
Sky-Dweller
Rolex
Submariner Date
The Rolex Sky-Dweller is priced at $17,150 while the Rolex Submariner Date comes in at ~$35,000 (market value). On the secondary market, the gap narrows: the Rolex Sky-Dweller trades around $19,000 and the Rolex Submariner Date around $35,000, a difference of $16,000 favoring the Rolex Sky-Dweller. Trading at 11% 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 0.0%, with upward momentum. For investors, the Rolex Submariner Date edges ahead with a flip potential score of 6/10 compared to 5/10.
Specifications
| Specification | Rolex Sky-Dweller | Rolex Submariner Date |
|---|---|---|
| Case Diameter | 42mm | 40mm |
| Case Thickness | 14.1mm | 12.5mm |
| Case Material | Oystersteel and 18ct white gold | Stainless steel |
| Bezel | 18ct white gold, fluted, with Ring Command bezel | Stainless steel with aluminum insert in black |
| Crystal | Sapphire with Cyclops lens | Acrylic with Cyclops lens |
| Water Resistance | 100m / 330ft | 200m / 660ft |
| Movement | Rolex calibre 9001 | Rolex calibre 1570 |
| Movement Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Power Reserve | 72 hours | 48 hours |
| Bracelet/Strap | Jubilee, five-piece links | Oyster, folded links |
| Clasp | Oysterclasp with Easylink 5mm comfort extension | Oyster folding clasp |
| Lug Width | 21mm | 20mm |
Key specification differences stand out between these two: The Rolex Submariner Date leads in water resistance (200m / 660ft vs. 100m / 330ft), and the Rolex Sky-Dweller offers longer power reserve at 72 hours, and the Rolex Sky-Dweller uses Oystersteel and 18ct white gold while the Rolex Submariner Date 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 Sky-Dweller costs $452 versus $875 for the Rolex Submariner Date. For water resistance, the Rolex Submariner Date delivers better value per meter of depth rating. The Rolex Sky-Dweller offers more power reserve per dollar spent.
Which Should You Buy?
Choose the Rolex Sky-Dweller if you value better value retention. Go with the Rolex Submariner Date if you prioritize a lower entry price, stronger flip potential, serious diving capabilities. For pure investment potential, the Rolex Submariner Date has the edge based on current market data.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is more affordable, the Rolex Sky-Dweller or the Rolex Submariner Date?
The Rolex Sky-Dweller is more accessible, priced at $17,150 compared to ~$35,000 (market value).
Which watch is a better investment?
Based on current market data, the Rolex Submariner Date 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 Sky-Dweller currently trades at 10.8% above retail, indicating strong value retention on the pre-owned market.
How do the Rolex Sky-Dweller and Rolex Submariner Date compare in size?
The Rolex Sky-Dweller measures 42mm in diameter and 14.1mm thick, while the Rolex Submariner Date is 40mm by 12.5mm. Water resistance differs too: 100m / 330ft versus 200m / 660ft.
What movements do these watches use?
The Rolex Sky-Dweller uses the Rolex calibre 9001 with 72 hours power reserve, while the Rolex Submariner Date runs on the Rolex calibre 1570 offering 48 hours of power reserve.