Rolex Submariner vs Tudor Black Bay Chrono S&G
Ref. 114060 vs Ref. M79363N-0002
The Rolex Submariner and Tudor Black Bay Chrono S&G represent one of the most compelling matchups in luxury watches — a sibling rivalry between two brands under the same parent company. With the Rolex Submariner priced at ~$14,000 (market value) and the Tudor Black Bay Chrono S&G at $7,300, 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
Submariner
Tudor
Black Bay Chrono S&G
The Rolex Submariner is priced at ~$14,000 (market value) while the Tudor Black Bay Chrono S&G comes in at $7,300. On the secondary market, the gap narrows: the Rolex Submariner trades around $14,000 and the Tudor Black Bay Chrono S&G around $6,935, a difference of $7,065 favoring the Tudor Black Bay Chrono S&G. This watch trades at 73% above retail on the secondary market and is trending upward — a strong indicator of collector demand. The Tudor Black Bay Chrono S&G shows a more modest market premium of -5.0%, holding steady. For investors, the Rolex Submariner edges ahead with a flip potential score of 9/10 compared to 3/10.
Specifications
| Specification | Rolex Submariner | Tudor Black Bay Chrono S&G |
|---|---|---|
| Case Diameter | 40mm | 41mm |
| Case Thickness | 12.5mm | 14.4mm |
| Case Material | Oystersteel | Stainless steel and yellow gold |
| Bezel | Cerachrom (ceramic) in black | Fixed bezel with tachymeter scale in yellow gold |
| Crystal | Sapphire | Sapphire crystal |
| Water Resistance | 300m / 1000ft | 200m / 660ft |
| Movement | Rolex calibre 3130 | Tudor Calibre MT5813 |
| Movement Type | Automatic | Automatic chronograph |
| Power Reserve | 48 hours | 70 hours |
| Bracelet/Strap | Oyster, three-piece solid links | Stainless steel and yellow gold with riveted-style links |
| Clasp | Oysterlock safety clasp with Glidelock extension system | Folding clasp with safety catch |
| Lug Width | 20mm | 22mm |
Key specification differences stand out between these two: The Rolex Submariner leads in water resistance (300m / 1000ft vs. 200m / 660ft), and the Tudor Black Bay Chrono S&G offers longer power reserve at 70 hours, and the Rolex Submariner uses Oystersteel while the Tudor Black Bay Chrono S&G opts for Stainless steel and yellow gold. 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 Submariner costs $350 versus $169 for the Tudor Black Bay Chrono S&G. For water resistance, the Tudor Black Bay Chrono S&G delivers better value per meter of depth rating. The Tudor Black Bay Chrono S&G offers more power reserve per dollar spent.
Which Should You Buy?
Choose the Rolex Submariner if you value a lower entry price, stronger flip potential, better value retention. Go with the Tudor Black Bay Chrono S&G if you prioritize timing functionality. For pure investment potential, the Rolex Submariner has the edge based on current market data.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is more affordable, the Rolex Submariner or the Tudor Black Bay Chrono S&G?
The Tudor Black Bay Chrono S&G is more accessible, priced at $7,300 compared to ~$14,000 (market value).
Which watch is a better investment?
Based on current market data, the Rolex Submariner 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 Submariner currently trades at 72.8% above retail, indicating strong value retention on the pre-owned market.
How do the Rolex Submariner and Tudor Black Bay Chrono S&G compare in size?
The Rolex Submariner measures 40mm in diameter and 12.5mm thick, while the Tudor Black Bay Chrono S&G is 41mm by 14.4mm. Water resistance differs too: 300m / 1000ft versus 200m / 660ft.
What movements do these watches use?
The Rolex Submariner uses the Rolex calibre 3130 with 48 hours power reserve, while the Tudor Black Bay Chrono S&G runs on the Tudor Calibre MT5813 offering 70 hours of power reserve.