The Rolex Submariner and the Omega Seamaster Diver 300M are the two most popular luxury dive watches. Both are water resistant to 300 m, both have a ceramic bezel and a precise automatic movement, and both suit everyday wear. The main differences are price, character and resale: in our stock the Submariner typically costs $13,155 and the Seamaster $6,070.
Submariner vs Seamaster at a glance
| Rolex Submariner Date 126610LN | Omega Seamaster Diver 300M 210.30.42.20.01.001 | |
|---|---|---|
| Case | 41 mm, Oystersteel | 42 mm, stainless steel |
| Water resistance | 300 m | 300 m, with helium escape valve |
| Movement | Rolex calibre 3235, about 70 hours of power reserve | Omega calibre 8800 Co-Axial Master Chronometer, about 55 hours |
| Accuracy standard | Rolex Superlative Chronometer, −2/+2 seconds a day | METAS Master Chronometer, 0/+5 seconds a day, resistant to 15,000 gauss |
| Bezel | Black Cerachrom ceramic | Ceramic with laser-engraved numerals |
| Dial | Black lacquer, Mercedes hands | Laser-engraved wave pattern, skeleton sword hands |
| Bracelet | Oyster, Glidelock extension | Steel bracelet with diver's extension |
| In our stock | from $6,290, typically $13,155 | from $880, typically $6,070 |
Specifications vary by reference and generation, so always check the exact reference on the listing. Prices are live figures from our stock.
Design and character
The Submariner has barely changed its look since the 1950s: a black dial, a rotating bezel, Mercedes hands and the Oyster case. It is understated and goes with everything, from a suit to swimwear. The current 41 mm case has slimmer lugs than the previous "maxi" generation.
The Seamaster Diver 300M is more expressive: the wave dial, the helium escape valve at 10 o'clock and the skeleton hands give it a technical, modern look. It is the watch of James Bond since 1995, which still drives much of its appeal.
Movement and accuracy
Both movements are excellent. Rolex's calibre 3235 has a longer power reserve (about 70 hours, so it keeps running over a weekend off the wrist). Omega's Master Chronometer certification tests the finished watch, including resistance to strong magnetic fields, which is the Seamaster's technical advantage.
Price and value
The Seamaster costs a fraction of a Submariner, and you can usually buy one new without waiting. The Submariner costs more, but steel Submariners have historically held their value better on the secondary market. If resale matters to you, the Submariner is the safer choice; if you want the most watch for the money, the Seamaster is hard to beat.
Which one should you buy?
Choose the Submariner if you want the classic, the strongest resale and a watch that never looks out of place. Compare the Submariner Date 126610LN, the green 126610LV and the no-date 124060.
Choose the Seamaster if you want a technically excellent dive watch with more personality, for considerably less money. See our Omega Seamaster buying guide for the Aqua Terra and Planet Ocean too.
Shop the Rolex Submariner and the Omega Seamaster. Every watch is checked by our specialist before it ships and comes with our 24-month warranty.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Omega Seamaster as good as a Rolex Submariner?
In quality and accuracy, yes: both are among the best dive watches made. The Submariner has the stronger brand recognition and resale value; the Seamaster offers more technical features for less money.
Which is more expensive, the Submariner or the Seamaster?
The Submariner. In our stock the Submariner typically costs $13,155 and the Seamaster $6,070.
Which holds its value better?
Steel Rolex Submariners have historically held their value better than the Seamaster on the secondary market, but no watch's future price is guaranteed.
Can I swim with both?
Yes. Both are water resistant to 300 m. Make sure the crown is screwed down before you go in the water.
Which is bigger?
The Seamaster Diver 300M is 42 mm, the current Submariner 41 mm. The Submariner wears slightly smaller and flatter.
