Rolex Submariner Date vs Tudor Black Bay 58
Ref. 116610LN vs Ref. M79030B-0001
The Rolex Submariner Date and Tudor Black Bay 58 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 Date priced at ~$14,500 (market value) and the Tudor Black Bay 58 at $4,275, 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 Date
Tudor
Black Bay 58
The Rolex Submariner Date is priced at ~$14,500 (market value) while the Tudor Black Bay 58 comes in at $4,275. On the secondary market, the gap widens: the Rolex Submariner Date trades around $14,500 and the Tudor Black Bay 58 around $3,900, a difference of $10,600 favoring the Tudor Black Bay 58. This watch trades at 59% above retail on the secondary market and is trending upward — a strong indicator of collector demand. The Tudor Black Bay 58 shows a more modest market premium of -8.8%, holding steady. For investors, the Rolex Submariner Date edges ahead with a flip potential score of 9/10 compared to 2/10.
Specifications
| Specification | Rolex Submariner Date | Tudor Black Bay 58 |
|---|---|---|
| Case Diameter | 40mm | 39mm |
| Case Thickness | 12.5mm | 11.9mm |
| Case Material | Oystersteel | Stainless steel |
| Bezel | Cerachrom (ceramic) in black | Unidirectional rotating bezel with anodized aluminium insert in blue |
| Crystal | Sapphire with Cyclops lens | Sapphire crystal |
| Water Resistance | 300m / 1000ft | 200m / 660ft |
| Movement | Rolex calibre 3135 | Tudor Calibre MT5402 |
| 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 |
| Lug Width | 20mm | 20mm |
Key specification differences stand out between these two: The Rolex Submariner Date leads in water resistance (300m / 1000ft vs. 200m / 660ft), and the Tudor Black Bay 58 offers longer power reserve at 70 hours, and the Rolex Submariner Date uses Oystersteel while the Tudor Black Bay 58 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 Date costs $363 versus $100 for the Tudor Black Bay 58. For water resistance, the Tudor Black Bay 58 delivers better value per meter of depth rating. The Tudor Black Bay 58 offers more power reserve per dollar spent.
Which Should You Buy?
Choose the Rolex Submariner Date if you value a lower entry price, stronger flip potential, better value retention. Go with the Tudor Black Bay 58 if you prioritize 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 Submariner Date or the Tudor Black Bay 58?
The Tudor Black Bay 58 is more accessible, priced at $4,275 compared to ~$14,500 (market value).
Which watch is a better investment?
Based on current market data, the Rolex Submariner Date 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 Date currently trades at 58.5% above retail, indicating strong value retention on the pre-owned market.
How do the Rolex Submariner Date and Tudor Black Bay 58 compare in size?
The Rolex Submariner Date measures 40mm in diameter and 12.5mm thick, while the Tudor Black Bay 58 is 39mm by 11.9mm. Water resistance differs too: 300m / 1000ft versus 200m / 660ft.
What movements do these watches use?
The Rolex Submariner Date uses the Rolex calibre 3135 with 48 hours power reserve, while the Tudor Black Bay 58 runs on the Tudor Calibre MT5402 offering 70 hours of power reserve.