Rolex offers numerous watches renowned for their durability in water activities, such as the Submariner and Yacht-Master. But do you know the difference between the Submariner and the Yacht-Master?

While both collections are suitable for water sports, they have some significant differences. Let’s explore these distinctions in this article.

Rolex Submariner

Here is a comprehensive exploration of the Rolex Submariner series, spanning design, materials, movement, and its lauded features.

submariner vs yachtmaster

1. Design and materials 

The Rolex Submariner’s design is anchored in its robust 40mm stainless steel case, exuding a harmonious blend of resilience and elegance. The unidirectional bezel, available in classic aluminum or contemporary ceramic, is a hallmark of the Submariner. 

This bezel is crucial for measuring dive times safely, making it indispensable for professional divers and underwater adventurers.

The vintage Submariner dials present an array of intriguing variations, from the iconic “Red Sub” to the uniquely monikered “Bart Simpson.” This diversity enhances the watch’s appeal and collectible value, making it a coveted piece among global collectors.

Read more: Is It Still Worth Buying A Rolex Submariner In 2023?

2. Movements

Vintage Submariners are powered by an array of reliable and precise automatic movements. For instance, the Submariner ref. 5513 is equipped with either the automatic caliber 1520 or 1530, while the ref. 5512 features the caliber 1570. 

The Submariner ref. 1680, launched in the late 1960s, is powered by the automatic caliber 1575. More recent models, such as the Submariner ref. 16800 and ref. 168000, utilize the automatic caliber 3035. 

These movements boast a power reserve of approximately 48 hours and water resistance up to depths of 200 meters or more, affirming the Submariner’s superiority both on land and beneath the waves.

3. Popular features 

Prominent features of the Rolex Submariner include the Chromalight display, enhancing legibility in darkness with blue luminescent material on the hands and hour markers. The simple shape of the hour markers and broad hands ensure instant readability underwater. 

The unidirectional bezel and Super-LumiNova coated indices facilitate time measurement during dives. 

Equipped with a Superlative Chronometer-certified automatic movement with a 48-hour power reserve, the Submariner has been an underwater survival tool since 1953. 

To learn more about the glow-in-the-dark feature of the Submariner watch, watch the video below.

Rolex Yacht-Master

Here is an in-depth look at the Rolex Yacht-Master series, covering design, materials, movement, and its popular features.

Read more: Everything You Need to Know About the Rolex Yacht-Master

1. Design and materials

The Yacht-Master features a bidirectional bezel crafted from solid 950 platinum, with raised 60-minute graduations. This bezel is more refined compared to the Submariner’s 120 distinct clicks.

Initially, the Yacht-Master was made entirely of precious metals, starting with yellow gold models. Later, versions in Everose gold with Cerachrom bezels and Rolesor emerged. There is also the Rolesium version, combining stainless steel with a platinum bezel.

A unique aspect of the Yacht-Master is being the first model to adopt Rolex’s Maxi dial, with larger indices and thicker hands for enhanced legibility. Reference 126622 offers two dial options: dark rhodium and blue sunburst.

2. Movements

The Rolex Yacht-Master and Yacht-Master II are equipped with advanced movements supporting their unique features. 

The Yacht-Master models use Caliber 2135 and 2235 for time and date functions, Caliber 2236 for the 37mm model, and Caliber 3135 and 3235 for the 40mm and 42mm models, with a 70-hour power reserve and enhanced Parachrom hairspring.

The Yacht-Master II employs Caliber 4160, later upgraded to Caliber 4161, featuring a programmable countdown timer, mechanical memory, chronograph synchronization, a 72-hour power reserve, and a blue Parachrom hairspring. 

These movements support features like the regatta chronograph and Ring Command Bezel, making it suitable for daily wear and yacht racing.

Read more: Understanding the Differences Between Luxury Watch Movements

3. Popular features

The Rolex Yacht-Master is renowned for its impressive features and elegant aesthetics. Key features include water resistance up to 30 meters, and a 31-jewel chronometer movement ensuring high precision.

They also have a bidirectional bezel with 60-minute graduations in precious metal or ceramic for tracking elapsed time during sports like sailing or diving, and a Chromalight display for optimal readability in all lighting conditions. 

Additionally, it includes a Cyclops lens magnifying the date and a choice between an Oysterflex bracelet and a three-link Oyster bracelet, both with an Oysterlock safety clasp.

submariner vs yachtmaster

Things to Consider When Choosing Rolex Submariner vs Rolex Yacht-Master

Before choosing, make sure to think about these crucial considerations regarding the Submariner vs. Yacht-Master.

1. Lifestyle

Choosing between the Rolex Submariner and the Yacht-Master depends significantly on the user’s lifestyle. The Submariner is ideal for those with an active aquatic lifestyle, boasting water resistance up to 300 meters, making it perfect for diving and intense water activities. 

On the other hand, the Yacht-Master is better suited for lighter water activities and everyday wear, thanks to its elegant and sleek design.

2. Budget

Price is another crucial factor, with the Submariner being more affordable, starting at around SGD 15,700. Meanwhile, the Yacht-Master begins at around SGD 16,500. 

For those aspiring to own and collect the finest Submariner or Yacht-Maser timepieces, Luxehouze is the perfect solution! 

Luxehouze offers a wide range of high-quality luxury watches from renowned brands, all 100% authentic at the best prices. 

Visit Luxehouze boutiques in Jakarta, Surabaya, and Singapore to explore the Submariner collection of your dreams!