Rolex Submariner Date vs Rolex Yacht-Master 42
Ref. M126618LB-0002 vs Ref. M136668LB-0001
The Rolex Submariner Date and Rolex Yacht-Master 42 both carry the Rolex name but serve different purposes — the Rolex Submariner Date as a dive watch and the Rolex Yacht-Master 42 as a sport watch. At $42,400 and $36,500 respectively, the question isn't which is better — it's which better fits your collection and investment goals.
Price Comparison
Rolex
Submariner Date
Rolex
Yacht-Master 42
At retail, the Rolex Submariner Date is listed at $42,400 while the Rolex Yacht-Master 42 comes in at $36,500. The Rolex Yacht-Master 42 saves you $5,900 (16% less), a meaningful difference for most buyers. On the secondary market, the gap narrows: the Rolex Submariner Date trades around $41,000 and the Rolex Yacht-Master 42 around $38,325, a difference of $2,675 favoring the Rolex Yacht-Master 42. Currently holding steady at just 3% below retail, this watch retains most of its value on the secondary market. The Rolex Yacht-Master 42 commands an even stronger market premium of +5.0%, holding steady. For investors, the Rolex Yacht-Master 42 edges ahead with a flip potential score of 5/10 compared to 4/10.
Specifications
| Specification | Rolex Submariner Date | Rolex Yacht-Master 42 |
|---|---|---|
| Case Diameter | 41mm | 42mm |
| Case Thickness | 12.5mm | 12.1mm |
| Case Material | 18ct yellow gold | 18ct yellow gold |
| Bezel | Cerachrom (ceramic) in blue | Cerachrom (ceramic) in blue, bidirectional rotatable |
| Crystal | Sapphire with Cyclops lens | Sapphire with Cyclops lens |
| Water Resistance | 300m / 1000ft | 100m / 330ft |
| Movement | Rolex calibre 3235 | Rolex calibre 3235 |
| Movement Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Power Reserve | 70 hours | 70 hours |
| Bracelet/Strap | Oyster, three-piece solid links in 18ct yellow gold | Oysterflex (elastomer with metal blade) |
| Clasp | Oysterlock safety clasp with Glidelock extension system | Oysterlock safety clasp |
| Lug Width | 21mm | 21mm |
Key specification differences stand out between these two: The Rolex Submariner Date leads in water resistance (300m / 1000ft vs. 100m / 330ft). With 4 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 $1,000 versus $913 for the Rolex Yacht-Master 42. For water resistance, the Rolex Submariner Date delivers better value per meter of depth rating. The Rolex Yacht-Master 42 offers more power reserve per dollar spent.
Which Should You Buy?
Choose the Rolex Submariner Date if you value serious diving capabilities. Go with the Rolex Yacht-Master 42 if you prioritize a lower entry price, stronger flip potential, better value retention. For pure investment potential, the Rolex Yacht-Master 42 has the edge based on current market data.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is more affordable, the Rolex Submariner Date or the Rolex Yacht-Master 42?
The Rolex Yacht-Master 42 is more accessible, priced at $36,500 compared to $42,400.
Which watch is a better investment?
Based on current market data, the Rolex Yacht-Master 42 has a higher flip potential score of 5/10, suggesting stronger investment returns. However, watch values can fluctuate based on market conditions.
Which holds its value better on the secondary market?
The Rolex Yacht-Master 42 currently trades at 5.0% above retail, indicating strong value retention on the pre-owned market.
How do the Rolex Submariner Date and Rolex Yacht-Master 42 compare in size?
The Rolex Submariner Date measures 41mm in diameter and 12.5mm thick, while the Rolex Yacht-Master 42 is 42mm by 12.1mm. Water resistance differs too: 300m / 1000ft versus 100m / 330ft.