Side by side

Rolex SubmarinervsRolex Explorer

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

Submariner
RolexSubmariner
MSRP $10,050
Explorer
RolexExplorer
MSRP $14,600
What people say

Owners + reviewers, side by side

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

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.

Rolex Explorer

Owners widely report the Rolex Explorer is exceptionally comfortable and versatile, dominating daily wear across formal and casual settings. Reviewers and owners consistently praise its understated design, immaculate finishing, and comfortable, tapering bracelet. One owner notes exceptional rate stability, gaining only +1.4 seconds in a week, while another reports +1 second per day. The 36mm size is highlighted as particularly comfortable, though some find the 3-6-9 markers too small, making the case wear even smaller. Some owners find the bezel scratches easily compared to the matte case, and a few consider it overpriced beyond MSRP. Overall, owners and reviewers rate the Rolex Explorer highly for its comfort, versatility, and understated "watch-guy's" appeal.

At a glance

7 of 29 specs differ
Diameter
Submariner41mm
Explorer36mm
Power Reserve
Submariner70h
Explorer70h
Water Resistance
Submariner300m
Explorer100m
MSRP
Submariner$10,050
Explorer$14,600

Full specifications

Case

5 specs
Category
Diver
Field
Diameter
41mm
36mm
Material
Oystersteel
Yellow Rolesor
Finish
Yellow Rolesor - combination of Oystersteel and yellow gold
Water Resistance
300m
100m

Crystal & Dial

1 specs
Indices
Index
Arabic numerals

Pricing

1 specs
MSRP
$10,050
$14,600
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