The Rolex Submariner and GMT-Master are two of the most iconic and sought-after models from Rolex, cherished year after year. Both watches boast a rich history and are prized by collectors.
While these lines are undoubtedly popular, what sets them apart? In this article, we’ll compare the Submariner and GMT-Master, delving into their history, design, and features.
Rolex Submariner vs. GMT-Master: A Comparison
Despite both being beloved Rolex collections, the Submariner and GMT-Master have several notable differences. To clarify these distinctions, take a look at the following comparison table.
| Feature | Rolex Submariner | Rolex GMT-Master |
| Release Year | 1953 | 1954 |
| Function | Measures time underwater or while diving | Tracks two time zones simultaneously |
| Bezel | Unidirectional | Bidirectional |
| Water Resistant | Up to 300 meters | Up to 100 meters |
| Date Window | Available on some models | Available on some models |
| Case Size | 41 mm | 40 mm |
| Two-Tone Bezel | Not available | Available on some models |
| Price Range | SGD 13,000 – 50,000 | SGD 13,000 – 67,000 |
Read more: Breaking Down Rolex’s Latest 2024 Price List
Rolex Submariner
Introduced in 1953, the Rolex Submariner was specifically designed for diving and quickly became one of Rolex’s most renowned and iconic models.
Here’s an in-depth look at the Rolex Submariner series, covering its design, materials, movement, and popular features.
1. Design and materials of the Rolex Submariner
The Submariner boasts a sporty yet elegant design. A distinctive feature is its unidirectional rotating bezel, which is used for safely measuring dive time.
Typically, the case and bezel are crafted from 904L stainless steel, known as Oystersteel, though some models also come in yellow gold, white gold, or a combination of gold and steel.
The dial design is straightforward to read, enhanced by Chromalight, which ensures visibility in low-light conditions, making it legible even underwater.
Read more: Is It Still Worth Buying A Rolex Submariner In 2023?
2. Movement used in the Rolex Submariner
The Submariner employs various reliable and precise automatic movements. Each model features a different movement, all of which are designed in-house by Rolex.
For example, the Submariner ref. 5513 utilizes the automatic caliber 1520 or 1530, while the ref. 5512 is equipped with the caliber 1570. The ref. 1680, launched in the late 1960s, features the caliber 1575.
Newer models, such as the Submariner ref. 16800 and ref. 168000, use the caliber 3035, offering a power reserve of approximately 48 hours.
3. Popular features of the Rolex Submariner
Key features of the Rolex Submariner include the Chromalight display, which enhances visibility in darkness. This feature allows the watch to remain readable in low-light conditions, such as underwater. Chromalight employs blue luminescent material applied to the hands and hour markers.
Additionally, the Submariner features a unidirectional bezel and Super-LumiNova-coated indices, which facilitate timekeeping during dives.
As a diver’s watch, all models in the Submariner collection are water-resistant up to 300 meters, ensuring optimal performance even at significant depths.
Rolex GMT-Master
The Rolex GMT-Master was first introduced in 1954 as a watch designed to track two time zones simultaneously.
In 1982, Rolex expanded its functionality with the GMT-Master II, which allowed users to set the 24-hour hand independently from the main hour hand, enabling the tracking of three time zones.
Here’s a closer look at the Rolex GMT-Master series, including its design, materials, movements, and popular features.
1. Design and materials of the Rolex GMT-Master
At first glance, the GMT-Master’s design might seem similar to that of the Submariner. However, the GMT-Master features a bidirectional rotating bezel that facilitates tracking a second time zone.
The dial includes a date window at the 3 o’clock position with a Cyclops lens. The case is made from Rolex’s signature Oystersteel, and the crown is equipped with the Triplock mechanism.
Many GMT-Master variants are renowned for their two-tone bezels. Notable examples include the Rolex “Pepsi,” which features a blue and red bezel, and the Rolex “Batman,” known for its blue and black bezel.
Read more: Rolex GMT-Master II, The Iconic Timepiece to Track Multiple Time Zones
2. Movement used in the Rolex GMT-Master
Older GMT-Master models, such as the ref. 1675, ref. 16753, and ref. 16758, utilize Rolex’s reliable and precise automatic movements.
These models are equipped with calibers 1565, 1575, or 3075, all known for their robust performance and approximately 48-hour power reserve.
3. Popular features of the Rolex GMT-Master
The GMT-Master’s standout feature is its ability to display two time zones simultaneously. This makes it an exceptionally practical watch for travelers or individuals working across multiple time zones, allowing them to easily track time in two different locations.
Choosing Between the Rolex Submariner vs GMT-Master
From the discussion above, it is clear that the primary difference between the Rolex Submariner and GMT-Master lies in their functionalities.
The Submariner is designed as a diving watch, whereas the GMT-Master is intended to track multiple time zones. So, which one should you choose? Here are some considerations to help you decide:
1. Lifestyle
Your choice between the Rolex Submariner and GMT-Master largely depends on your lifestyle. For divers and water sports enthusiasts, the Submariner is likely the better option due to its exceptional water resistance and diving-specific features.
Meanwhile, if you frequently travel internationally, whether for business or leisure, the GMT-Master may be more suitable. Its ability to display multiple time zones is especially valuable for globetrotters.
Read more: Cracking the Code: Understanding the Lettering System in Rolex Watches
2. Budget
Budget is another crucial factor to consider, as the prices for Rolex Submariner and GMT-Master models vary.
Currently, the Rolex Submariner is available starting from approximately SGD 13,000 – 50,000. On the other hand, the GMT-Master ranges from around SGD 13,000 – 67,000.
Regardless of your choice, it’s important to purchase from a reputable source to ensure the authenticity of your watch. Both the Rolex Submariner and GMT-Master can be found at Luxehouze.
Luxehouze offers a diverse collection of luxury watches from various brands, including Rolex. All watches at Luxehouze are guaranteed to be 100% authentic and available at the best prices. So, don’t hesitate to find your preferred Rolex at Luxehouze today!
