Rolex Sky-Dweller vs Tudor Heritage Black Bay
Ref. M336938-0006 vs Ref. 79220B
The Rolex Sky-Dweller and Tudor Heritage 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 Sky-Dweller priced at $52,350 and the Tudor Heritage Black Bay at ~$4,500 (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
Sky-Dweller
Tudor
Heritage Black Bay
The Rolex Sky-Dweller is priced at $52,350 while the Tudor Heritage Black Bay comes in at ~$4,500 (market value). On the secondary market, the gap widens: the Rolex Sky-Dweller trades around $75,908 and the Tudor Heritage Black Bay around $4,500, a difference of $71,408 favoring the Tudor Heritage Black Bay. This watch trades at 45% above retail on the secondary market and is trending upward — a strong indicator of collector demand. The Tudor Heritage Black Bay also shows a healthy market premium of +38.5%, with upward momentum. Both watches score equally on flip potential at 7/10, making neither a clear investment winner over the other.
Specifications
| Specification | Rolex Sky-Dweller | Tudor Heritage Black Bay |
|---|---|---|
| Case Diameter | 42mm | 41mm |
| Case Thickness | 14.1mm | 12.7mm |
| Case Material | 18ct yellow gold | Stainless steel |
| Bezel | 18ct yellow gold, fluted, with Ring Command bezel | Unidirectional rotating bezel with anodized aluminium insert in blue |
| Crystal | Sapphire with Cyclops lens | Domed sapphire crystal |
| Water Resistance | 100m / 330ft | 200m / 660ft |
| Movement | Rolex calibre 9001 | ETA 2824 |
| Movement Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Power Reserve | 72 hours | 38 hours |
| Bracelet/Strap | Jubilee, five-piece links in 18ct yellow gold | Stainless steel bracelet |
| Clasp | Oysterclasp with Easylink 5mm comfort extension | Folding clasp with safety catch |
| Lug Width | 21mm | 22mm |
Key specification differences stand out between these two: The Tudor Heritage Black Bay 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 18ct yellow gold while the Tudor Heritage 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 Sky-Dweller costs $1,807 versus $110 for the Tudor Heritage Black Bay. For water resistance, the Tudor Heritage Black Bay delivers better value per meter of depth rating. The Tudor Heritage Black Bay 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 Tudor Heritage Black Bay if you prioritize a lower entry price, serious diving capabilities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is more affordable, the Rolex Sky-Dweller or the Tudor Heritage Black Bay?
The Tudor Heritage Black Bay is more accessible, priced at ~$4,500 (market value) compared to $52,350.
Which holds its value better on the secondary market?
The Rolex Sky-Dweller currently trades at 45.0% above retail, indicating strong value retention on the pre-owned market.
How do the Rolex Sky-Dweller and Tudor Heritage Black Bay compare in size?
The Rolex Sky-Dweller measures 42mm in diameter and 14.1mm thick, while the Tudor Heritage Black Bay is 41mm by 12.7mm. 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 Tudor Heritage Black Bay runs on the ETA 2824 offering 38 hours of power reserve.