Side by side

Formex Reef 42 mmvsRolex Submariner

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

Reef 42 mm
FormexReef 42 mm
MSRP $2,414
Submariner
RolexSubmariner
MSRP $10,050
What people say

Owners + reviewers, side by side

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

Formex Reef 42 mm

The Formex Reef 42 mm is widely praised for its comfortable bracelet featuring a micro-adjust clasp, COSC-certified Sellita movement, and excellent build quality. Owners appreciate the gradient dial's visual appeal and the overall wearability. Some owners note the seconds hand does not perfectly align with markers, and one owner found the lugs' taper hinders third-party strap fit. The bracelet's length and sporty design are noted as limiting versatility by some. On balance, owners and reviewers rate the Formex Reef 42 mm highly for its impressive wearability and value at the 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

14 of 29 specs differ
Diameter
Reef 42 mm42mm
Submariner41mm
Power Reserve
Reef 42 mm56h
Submariner70h
Water Resistance
Reef 42 mm300m
Submariner300m
MSRP
Reef 42 mm$2,414
Submariner$10,050

Full specifications

Case

7 specs
Diameter
42mm
41mm
Thickness
11.4mm
Lug-to-Lug
47mm
Lug Width
22mm
Material
Stainless Steel
Oystersteel
Finish
Brushed and polished
Caseback
Solid
Monobloc middle case, screw-down case back and winding crown

Crystal & Dial

3 specs
AR Coating
Inner
Indices
Applied
Index
Lume
Super-LumiNova
Chromalight

Movement

3 specs
Caliber
Sellita SW300-1
3230
Power Reserve
56h
70h
Jewels
25
31

Pricing

1 specs
MSRP
$2,414
$10,050
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