The Rolex Daytona vs. The Rolex Submariner

Along with the classic line of Rolex luxury watches, there is also a utility line full of amazing watches designed for specific professions and sports.  Each with its own features and functions; each of these models was designed to both withstand and enhance a wide range of activities. However, two of the most celebrated and coveted in this line and within all Rolex watches are the Daytona and the Submariner. 

The Rolex Daytona vs. Submariner size may be the same, but that’s really the end of the similarities. Both of these beautiful utilitarian watches lay claim to their own birthright. Whether for profession, hobby, or collecting; each of these watches is ideal in terms of durability, function, and investment. 

 

The Daytona

Rolex has had sub-dialed chronographs in their line of watches since the 30s. In 1962 they became the official timepiece of Daytona, and the following year released the first labeled Daytona. It has since become the official timepiece for Formula 1. The Daytona Cosmograph was designed to be the best in measuring lap times and speed, and it has succeeded.

On the earlier Daytona models, the movement was outsourced from Zenith. These vintage zenith movement Daytona’s can be even more coveted than the modern Rolex manufactured 4130 movement Daytona’s that at times, have sold at more than triple the retail price.

 

Daytona ref 16528
The Daytona ref 16528 is a perfect watch to wear to the race track, of which it was named after.  Capable of tracking your favorite drivers times and speed, and durable enough to be worn while in the driver's seat.

 

Key Features of the Daytona

  • Has 3 additional chronometer subsidiary dials.
  • The only model with a stopwatch function.
  • Precise in measuring lap times.
  • Manufactured in all Rolex offered precious metals: stainless steel, two-tone, gold, and platinum.
  • Water resistant up to 100 meters or 330 feet
  • One of the few Rolex models to not have a date function.
  • Tachymeter bezel in steel, gold or cerachrom


While most people don’t use this watch for its intended functions, it is one of the most sought-after pieces in the utilitarian line because of its appreciation value. The actual Paul Newman’s Daytona ref model 6239 manufactured in 1963 sold at Christie’s auction in 2017 for 17.8million USD.

Considering the high value, and high appreciation, Daytona watches can be a great commodity to diversify your portfolio. There are fewer units of the Daytona that have been produced than the Submariner, and is one of the reasons the resale value appreciates so well: more demand and smaller supply.

It’s also a very stunning timepiece that is perfect for adding to a formal dress occasion but can still be just as stylish with a casual look. Although the latter would mostly ring true depending on the style you’re sporting.

Whichever the reason you love the Daytona, there is a model for everyone. Whether you prefer a full rose gold model with the stunning sundust dial, or the sleek platinum model with the ice blue dial and brown cerachrom bezel, there’s really not a Daytona color and combination you could go wrong with.

Platinum Daytona ref 116506

Platinum Daytona ref 116506 with the ice blue diamond dial and brown cerachrom tachymeter bezel.

 

Check out our collection of Daytona's and feel free to reach out to us with any questions!

 

The Submariner

Introduced in 1953, the Submariner is probably one of the most used watches for its functions in the professional line. A large number of people that purchased the submariner did so because of job requirements or diving passions. The Rolex Submariner has a waterproof rating up to 300 meters and features a rotating bezel for measuring elapsed time during a dive.

The Submariner also is one out of only two models that feature a glidelock clasp, easily extending the bracelet without the need of any tools. A must have for a diver.

The fact it has been manufactured for so long, combined with it being engineered to be one of the best diving watches; it has easily become one of the most recognizable luxury watches and one of the most recognizable Rolex watches. It also doesn't hurt that when Sean Connery played the infamous 007 agent, James Bond, he did so sporting a classic Submariner.

Submariner ref 116613
The Submariner ref 116613 is the perfect accompaniment for both your scuba suit and dress suit.  Beautiful and classy, with a waterproof rating up to 300 meters.

 

Key Features of the Submariner

  • Water resistant up to 300 meters (1,000 feet).
  • Rotatable bezel to measure diving time.
  • Manufactured in steel, white gold, yellow gold and yellow rolesor.
  • One of only two models with a glide lock buckle for an instant extension.
  • Has either an aluminum or ceramic bezel


The Rolex Submariner is also a model that appreciates well, and vintage models can fetch a price far above a new modern model. The Submariner reference 5513 manufactured in 1972 sold at Christie’s auction in 2015 for $365,000.

The vintage models all have different aspects that make them more sought after than the next, oddly which are "flaws" or sun exposure fading the dial and/or bezel insert. Some of these examples are the cracked or "spider dial" or the "purple" faded blue dials.

The new modern models are no slouch, though. Manufactured in vibrant colors and matching colored bezels, they too have become sought after. Shortly after the Submariner "Hulk" (which was their anniversary piece with a green dial and green insert) was discontinued, the price shot up overnight.

 

Check out our collection of Submariners

 

Daytona vs. Submariner

Both of the pieces are iconic and sought after, and both pieces appreciate very well. Each with different price points, and each having certain styles that appreciate more than others.

There's also no question that these watches were manufactured with great functions and craftsmanship that surpass others. A watch you can truly wear throughout your hobbies right on to a nice event.

There really isn’t one model we would suggest over the other, as they are both great pieces. It truly all depends on personal style and preferences, reasons for purchase, and your budget. Whichever style you are looking for, give us a call and we can help find the best option for your budget.

It is also important to mention that because of the appreciation value and price points of these watches, we always encourage customers to authenticate these pieces authenticated by a 3rd party when they purchase them.
If you have any questions on authenticity from another seller, we are always here to help where we can.

Last but not least: Even though these watches are a commodity, they are meant to be worn and enjoyed. Find the right one for you, and ENJOY IT.