Side by side

Marathon MSAR (Medium Search & Rescue) Diver's AutomaticvsRolex Submariner

The numbers, the dial colors, the calibers — laid out so you can stop flipping between tabs.

What people say

Owners + reviewers, side by side

Synthesized for each watch independently from owner discussions, enthusiast forums, written reviews, and video reviewers.

Marathon MSAR (Medium Search & Rescue) Diver's Automatic

The Marathon MSAR (Medium Search & Rescue) Diver's Automatic is lauded for its utilitarian, no-nonsense design, exceptional tritium lume for visibility, and comfortable 41mm wearability. Reviewers highlight its robust build, meeting ISO 6425 dive watch standards and approved for military use, demonstrating durability during demanding activities. One reviewer notes the stock rubber strap requires modification for a proper fit. Overall, reviewers rate the Marathon MSAR (Medium Search & Rescue) Diver's Automatic highly for its focus on utility and ruggedness at its price point.

Rolex Submariner

Owners widely praise the Rolex Submariner's restored classic taper, improved case profile with slimmer lugs, and AR-coated crystal, contributing to its wearability and familiar feel for everyday use. The watch is recognized for its iconic status, widespread recognition, and exceptional accuracy, stemming from Rolex's highly integrated manufacturing. Some owners note a 70-hour power reserve. Availability remains a challenge, with long wait times reported at authorized dealers, leading some to consider the grey market. Opinions are split on whether the modern Submariner still justifies its price compared to competitors, with some viewing its appeal as driven by brand and hype, while others consider it the benchmark watch at retail. Owners also debate the aesthetic and functional merits of the date versus no-date Submariner models. Overall, owners and reviewers rate the Rolex Submariner highly for its iconic design, build quality, and everyday wearability.

From video reviewers

The satin-brushed 904L stainless steel finishing and the Caliber 3230 movement with its 70-hour power reserve are highlighted strengths. Reviewers noted the Chromalight lume as a positive feature for legibility.

At a glance

16 of 29 specs differ
Diameter
MSAR (Medium Search & Rescue) Diver's Automatic36mm
Submariner41mm
Power Reserve
MSAR (Medium Search & Rescue) Diver's Automatic
Submariner70h
Water Resistance
MSAR (Medium Search & Rescue) Diver's Automatic300m
Submariner300m
MSRP
MSAR (Medium Search & Rescue) Diver's Automatic$1,800
Submariner$10,050

Full specifications

Case

5 specs
Diameter
36mm
41mm
Thickness
18mm
Lug Width
18mm
Material
316L Stainless Steel
Oystersteel
Caseback
Monobloc middle case, screw-down case back and winding crown

Crystal & Dial

4 specs
Crystal Shape
Flat
Dial Color
White
Black
Indices
Index
Lume
None
Chromalight

Movement

6 specs
Caliber
Sellita SW200-1
3230
Beat Rate
0 vph
28,800 vph
Power Reserve
0h
70h
Jewels
0
31
Hacking
No
Yes
Hand-winding
No
Yes

Pricing

1 specs
MSRP
$1,800
$10,050
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