Rolex Daytona vs. Submariner

Whether you are a luxury watch enthusiast or a potential investor in high-quality timepieces, it is essential to research before making any additions to your collection. Rolex is the leading brand in the luxury watch industry, with the Daytona and Submariner being the sporty watches from the Swiss manufacturer. If you want to learn more about these magnificent luxury watches, Atlanta Luxury Watches can help.

While the Daytona is times objects in motion and the Submariner for diving, there are a lot of factors you need to consider before deciding. When you visit our online or brick watch store, we provide pertinent information on both luxury watches to ensure you choose one that suits your style and personality. Let’s look at some differences between the models.

Size

Both watches appear similar in size, but the Daytona is smaller. The case profile of a Daytona timepiece is the same as an Oyster model, which is 12.4mm thick and measures 40mm. However, older Daytona models like ref 6239 measure 37mm and 14.4mm thick.

Until 2020, the Rolex submariner had a 13mm thick case and measured 40mm. The 2020 update saw the Submariner increase the case size to 41mm and reduce the thickness to 12.3mm. Besides the proximity in thickness and size, they wear differently hence the need to visit our watch store for a complete comparison on sizing.

Materials & Colors

The Submariner and Daytona models were initially launched in stainless steel and produced in precious metals. Some models of both watches are gem-set, making the two brands similar in many areas. Modern variants of both luxury watches feature ceramic bezels, but older Daytona timepieces had a steel bezel and Submariners aluminum.

The standard dial color in Submariner watches is black, but several dial and bezel colors exist. Submariners like the "Hulk" feature a green bezel and dial, and the "Smurf" feature a blue bezel and a white-gold-blue dial.

The Daytona is commonly found with subdued colors like silver, or black, depending on the production year and reference. Although the Daytona doesn’t have many colors, various versions feature gem-setting, brown, ivory, meteorite, or mother-of-pearl dials. You can get a platinum timepiece with a classic ice blue dial or yellow gold with a green dial.

Complications and Water Resistance

The most apparent difference between the Daytona and the Submariner is their complications. The Daytona has a chronograph but lacks a date function, while the Submariner is available with a simple date function or a time-only model. Rolex designed the Submariner for diving, adding a water resistance feature up to 300m. As mentioned, the Daytona measures objects in motion and is suited for land sports with water resistance up to 100m.

Pricing

The secondary market sees a Submariner listed from $9,900 for a stainless steel black dial ref 16610 to $150,000 for a white gold sapphire and diamond model. The Daytona starts slightly higher at $15,590 for a two-tone with a black dial and increases to $85,000 for a yellow-gold model with a green dial.

If you are wondering which is better between the two luxury watches, visit our watch store for more information and guidance. Contact us at Atlanta Luxury Watches and talk to our luxury watch specialists. Leverage our extensive industry knowledge and vast catalog to invest in a timepiece that suits your preferences.