Tudor Royal vs Tudor Submariner
Ref. M28300-0003 vs Ref. 79090
Comparing the Tudor Submariner to the Tudor Royal means weighing a significant price difference — is the premium justified? At $2,650 versus ~$7,000 (market value), these two watches serve different segments of the market. Here's how they stack up on specifications, value retention, and investment potential.
Price Comparison
Tudor
Royal
Tudor
Submariner
The Tudor Royal is priced at $2,650 while the Tudor Submariner comes in at ~$7,000 (market value). On the secondary market, the gap widens: the Tudor Royal trades around $2,253 and the Tudor Submariner around $7,000, a difference of $4,747 favoring the Tudor Royal. Available at 15% below retail and trending downward, this represents a buying opportunity for those comfortable with the current market position. The Tudor Submariner commands an even stronger market premium of +366.7%, with upward momentum. For investors, the Tudor Submariner edges ahead with a flip potential score of 8/10 compared to 2/10.
Specifications
| Specification | Tudor Royal | Tudor Submariner |
|---|---|---|
| Case Diameter | 38mm | 40mm |
| Case Thickness | 10.5mm | 12.5mm |
| Case Material | Stainless steel | Stainless steel |
| Bezel | Stainless steel with knurled edge | Unidirectional rotating bezel with aluminum insert in black |
| Crystal | Sapphire crystal | Sapphire crystal |
| Water Resistance | 100m / 330ft | 200m / 660ft |
| Movement | Tudor Calibre T601 | ETA 2824-2 |
| Movement Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Power Reserve | 38 hours | 38 hours |
| Bracelet/Strap | Stainless steel integrated bracelet | Stainless steel Oyster-style bracelet |
| Clasp | Folding clasp with safety catch | Folding clasp with diver extension |
| Lug Width | Integrated bracelet | 20mm |
Key specification differences stand out between these two: The Tudor Submariner leads in water resistance (200m / 660ft vs. 100m / 330ft). With 5 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 Tudor Royal costs $59 versus $175 for the Tudor Submariner. For water resistance, the Tudor Royal delivers better value per meter of depth rating. The Tudor Royal offers more power reserve per dollar spent.
Which Should You Buy?
Choose the Tudor Royal if you value the Tudor heritage. Go with the Tudor Submariner if you prioritize a lower entry price, stronger flip potential, better value retention. For pure investment potential, the Tudor Submariner has the edge based on current market data.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is more affordable, the Tudor Royal or the Tudor Submariner?
The Tudor Royal is more accessible, priced at $2,650 compared to ~$7,000 (market value).
Which watch is a better investment?
Based on current market data, the Tudor Submariner has a higher flip potential score of 8/10, suggesting stronger investment returns. However, watch values can fluctuate based on market conditions.
Which holds its value better on the secondary market?
The Tudor Submariner currently trades at 366.7% above retail, indicating strong value retention on the pre-owned market.
How do the Tudor Royal and Tudor Submariner compare in size?
The Tudor Royal measures 38mm in diameter and 10.5mm thick, while the Tudor Submariner is 40mm by 12.5mm. Water resistance differs too: 100m / 330ft versus 200m / 660ft.
What movements do these watches use?
The Tudor Royal uses the Tudor Calibre T601 with 38 hours power reserve, while the Tudor Submariner runs on the ETA 2824-2 offering 38 hours of power reserve.