Rolex Submariner vs Tudor Pelagos 39
Ref. 114060 vs Ref. M25407N-0001
The Rolex Submariner and Tudor Pelagos 39 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 Pelagos 39 at $4,700, 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
Pelagos 39
The Rolex Submariner is priced at ~$14,000 (market value) while the Tudor Pelagos 39 comes in at $4,700. On the secondary market, the gap widens: the Rolex Submariner trades around $14,000 and the Tudor Pelagos 39 around $3,500, a difference of $10,500 favoring the Tudor Pelagos 39. This watch trades at 73% above retail on the secondary market and is trending upward — a strong indicator of collector demand. The Tudor Pelagos 39 shows a more modest market premium of -25.5%, though currently trending downward. For investors, the Rolex Submariner edges ahead with a flip potential score of 9/10 compared to 2/10.
Specifications
| Specification | Rolex Submariner | Tudor Pelagos 39 |
|---|---|---|
| Case Diameter | 40mm | 39mm |
| Case Thickness | 12.5mm | 11.8mm |
| Case Material | Oystersteel | Titanium |
| Bezel | Cerachrom (ceramic) in black | Unidirectional rotating bezel with ceramic insert in black |
| Crystal | Sapphire | Sapphire crystal |
| Water Resistance | 300m / 1000ft | 200m / 660ft |
| Movement | Rolex calibre 3130 | Tudor Calibre MT5400 |
| Movement Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Power Reserve | 48 hours | 70 hours |
| Bracelet/Strap | Oyster, three-piece solid links | Titanium bracelet |
| Clasp | Oysterlock safety clasp with Glidelock extension system | Folding clasp with spring-loaded self-adjusting mechanism |
| Lug Width | 20mm | 20mm |
Key specification differences stand out between these two: The Rolex Submariner leads in water resistance (300m / 1000ft vs. 200m / 660ft), and the Tudor Pelagos 39 offers longer power reserve at 70 hours, and the Rolex Submariner uses Oystersteel while the Tudor Pelagos 39 opts for Titanium. 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 Pelagos 39. For water resistance, the Tudor Pelagos 39 delivers better value per meter of depth rating. The Tudor Pelagos 39 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 Pelagos 39 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 Pelagos 39?
The Tudor Pelagos 39 is more accessible, priced at $4,700 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 Pelagos 39 compare in size?
The Rolex Submariner measures 40mm in diameter and 12.5mm thick, while the Tudor Pelagos 39 is 39mm by 11.8mm. 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 Pelagos 39 runs on the Tudor Calibre MT5400 offering 70 hours of power reserve.