When it comes to Rolex diving watches, there are no wrong answers. The luxury watch giant has been making exceptional diving watches for many decades, and their quality and capabilities have only improved over the years. Undoubtedly, two of the most popular models from the diving watch collection are the Rolex Submariner and the Rolex Sea-Dweller.
Of course, you don’t have to be a diver to appreciate these beautiful watches. They have great functionality for those who enjoy the sport, but they’re also perfectly stylish for almost any other occasion. If you’re in the market for a Rolex diving watch and you can’t choose between the Submariner and the Sea-Dweller, BQ Watches can help. Read on to learn more about these two iconic watches.
The first Submariner was invented in 1953 and released the following year. This beautiful dive watch was able to outperform many competitors at the time with a depth of 100 metres. Plus, it had the craftsmanship, design, and name recognition of Rolex behind it. This watch was an instant classic when it was released and it is still a favourite among Rolex enthusiasts to this day.
The Sea-Dweller wouldn’t see its first iteration until over a decade after the release of the Submariner. The Sea-Dweller looked very similar other than its thicker case. However, the most notable difference was the Triplock system and the Helium Escape Valve. The Helium Escape Valve was created to help COMEX divers whose watches would shatter after deep dives where divers needed to breathe in a helium gas mixture to counter the effects of nitrogen. These helium bubbles would get into the Rolex and lead to the shattering issue. Rolex’s ingenious engineering with the Sea-Dweller made this issue a thing of the past.
As far as style goes, you’d be hard-pressed to have someone who isn’t well-versed in Rolexes point out many differences. Certainly, the difference in case thickness may be obvious, but these are two very similar, classically designed diving watches. They’re going to look great no matter which you choose.
They have also been in production for many years, meaning you have a lot of options when it comes to colours and the look of your Rolex diving watch. There is likely a Submariner or Sea-Dweller out there to fit nearly any style. Let’s take a look at some categories where these two watches diverge more.
There are several materials to choose from when buying these diving watches. The oldest vintage models are going to be almost exclusively stainless steel. Since this watch was originally made with functionality in mind, precious metals weren’t an immediate priority for most buyers. Eventually, the Submariner would introduce an 18k yellow gold version as well as a two-tone Rolesor addition. An 18k white gold option would be released next. The introduction of the Submariner Date would also see the introduction of more precious metal Rolex Submariners. The No-Date Rolexes are mostly stainless steel.
For the Sea-Dweller, the vast majority of options are going to be stainless steel. The Sea-Dweller was recently released with a two-tone Rolesor version in 2019.
Although these diving watches do what they are made to do exceptionally well, they’re fairly simple designs outside of the depth features. They usually just have the time and date. Still, the depth differences are notable, so let’s take a look.
Submariners are primarily designed for recreational diving, as it was created in response to the rise of the sport’s popularity. The water resistance for Submariners is capped at 300 metres. That will likely be more than enough for nearly every wearer.
However, if you want something that can withstand incredible depths, whether you’re a professional diver or you just like having a fascinating feature, then the Sea-Dweller is the right choice. The latest models are waterproof up to an astonishing 1,220 metres and can withstand pressures of 1,8000 PSI. It’s certainly an impressive timepiece.
Both modern versions of these timepieces use the latest Rolex movement, the 3235. Older models will have the 3135 calibre. The other notable difference between the two is the Fliplock extension that comes with the stainless steel Sea-Dwellers. The Fliplock bracelet extension allows you to extend the bracelet up to 26mm to fit over a wetsuit or drysuit sleeve. Both have the Glidelock feature which allows for 20mm of extension.
Finally, we get to the price difference between the two options. If you want to buy a Submariner or Sea-Dweller directly from Rolex, the price difference can be fairly significant. Stainless steel Submariners will usually retail for around £7300. The Rolesor version usually comes in at around £12,000. White and yellow gold versions of the Submariner will cost between £29,000 to £32,000. For the Sea-Dweller you can expect to pay around £9500 retail with the two-tone version costing around £13,500.
With that being said, getting a Submariner or Sea-Dweller at retail is easier said than done. There are often waitlists to get the latest model. Of course, if you’d prefer to go with the pre-owned market, you can get a high-quality luxury watch without having to wait. Also, the price is often comparable, and in some cases even more affordable.
Pre-owned Submariners and Sea-Dwellers can both be found for around £10,000 on the low end and up to £14000 or more on the high end. The price points for pre-owned models are quite comparable, so cost might not be a major factor in your decision.
That just leaves one question. Which of these two watches is the right choice for you? Honestly, you really can’t go wrong with either. They’re both fantastic diving watches, they are priced similarly, and they’ll perform great for most recreational dives.
If you’re looking for a precious metal version, the Submariner will give you more choices. If you’re looking for a heftier option, the Sea-Dweller might be the right choice. If you’re looking for something that can withstand incredible depths, the Sea-Dweller becomes the obvious choice.
Unless these are major factors for you, the choice will likely come down to which one you think looks best. Always go with your personal preference and trust your instincts when choosing a Rolex. Whatever Rolex makes you happiest is the right Rolex to pick.
Ready to find the perfect Submariner or Sea-Dweller? BQ Watches has what you need. We offer an incredible inventory of Rolexes and we’re sure to have one that you’ll love. If you’d like us to source a specific Submariner or Sea-Dweller that you can’t find in our inventory, be sure to let us know.
Shop our online inventory today or come visit us at our London, UK location to find the perfect used watch for your collection!
