Rolex Submariner vs Tudor Black Bay
Ref. 114060 vs Ref. M79230B-0008
The Rolex Submariner 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 Submariner priced at ~$14,000 (market value) and the Tudor Black Bay at $4,100, 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
The Rolex Submariner is priced at ~$14,000 (market value) while the Tudor Black Bay comes in at $4,100. On the secondary market, the gap widens: the Rolex Submariner trades around $14,000 and the Tudor Black Bay around $3,690, a difference of $10,310 favoring the Tudor Black Bay. 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 shows a more modest market premium of -10.0%, holding steady. For investors, the Rolex Submariner edges ahead with a flip potential score of 9/10 compared to 2/10.
Specifications
| Specification | Rolex Submariner | Tudor Black Bay |
|---|---|---|
| Case Diameter | 40mm | 41mm |
| Case Thickness | 12.5mm | 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 | 300m / 1000ft | 200m / 660ft |
| Movement | Rolex calibre 3130 | Tudor Calibre MT5602 |
| Movement Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Power Reserve | 48 hours | 70 hours |
| Bracelet/Strap | Oyster, three-piece solid links | Stainless steel with riveted-style links |
| Clasp | Oysterlock safety clasp with Glidelock extension system | Folding clasp with safety catch and micro-adjustment |
| 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 offers longer power reserve at 70 hours, and the Rolex Submariner 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 Submariner costs $350 versus $90 for the Tudor Black Bay. For water resistance, the Tudor Black Bay 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 Submariner 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 Submariner has the edge based on current market data.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is more affordable, the Rolex Submariner or the Tudor Black Bay?
The Tudor Black Bay is more accessible, priced at $4,100 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 compare in size?
The Rolex Submariner measures 40mm in diameter and 12.5mm thick, while the Tudor Black Bay is 41mm by 12.7mm. 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 runs on the Tudor Calibre MT5602 offering 70 hours of power reserve.