Tudor is Rolex's sister brand. Both were founded by Hans Wilsdorf and are owned by the same foundation, but they are separate brands with their own designs and, today, their own movements. The short answer: a Tudor gives you much of the Rolex experience for a fraction of the price. In our stock a Tudor Black Bay typically costs $4,270, a Rolex Submariner $13,155.
The shared history
Hans Wilsdorf founded Rolex in 1905 and created Tudor in the 1920s to offer a more affordable watch with the same reliability. For decades Tudor watches used Rolex cases, crowns and bracelets with movements bought from outside suppliers, which is why vintage Tudors are often called "the poor man's Rolex".
That is no longer accurate. Since 2015 Tudor has made its own manufacture movements, and its designs, like the Black Bay with its "snowflake" hands, are distinct from Rolex.
Tudor vs Rolex at a glance
| Tudor | Rolex | |
|---|---|---|
| Founded by | Hans Wilsdorf | Hans Wilsdorf |
| Signature models | Black Bay, Black Bay 58, Pelagos, Royal | Submariner, Datejust, GMT-Master II, Daytona |
| Movements | Tudor manufacture calibres (MT series) on most models | Rolex manufacture calibres |
| Case metals | Mostly steel, bronze, titanium; some gold | Steel, Rolesor, gold, platinum |
| Availability | Usually available new | Popular steel models hard to get new |
| In our stock | Tudor from $880, typically $3,620 | Rolex from $2,200, typically $17,380 |
Prices are live figures from the watches in our stock.
Quality and finishing
Both are robust, accurate and well built. Rolex goes further in finishing, materials (its own Oystersteel and gold alloys, Cerachrom bezels) and in details such as the Glidelock bracelet extension on the Submariner. Tudor's finishing is very good for its price, and its newer movements are certified chronometers with long power reserves.
Price and resale
This is the biggest difference. A Tudor Black Bay costs a fraction of a Submariner, and you can usually buy one without waiting. Rolex steel sports models have historically held their value much better; most Tudors sell below their original retail price on the secondary market, which also makes a pre-owned Tudor good value.
Black Bay or Submariner?
The most common comparison is the Tudor Black Bay (or the smaller Black Bay 58, 39 mm) against the Rolex Submariner. Both are dive watches water resistant to 200 m (Black Bay) and 300 m (Submariner). Our full comparison of the Submariner and Black Bay goes reference by reference, and the Tudor Black Bay guide explains every size and version.
Which one should you buy?
Choose Tudor if you want a superbly made, distinctive watch at a sensible price, and resale is not your priority.
Choose Rolex if you want the reference point in luxury watches, the strongest resale and the brand recognition, and the budget allows it.
Shop Tudor, the Tudor Black Bay and Rolex. Every watch is checked by our specialist before it ships and comes with our 24-month warranty.
Frequently asked questions
Is Tudor owned by Rolex?
Tudor and Rolex were both founded by Hans Wilsdorf and belong to the same owner, the Hans Wilsdorf Foundation, but they operate as separate brands.
Does Tudor use Rolex movements?
Not today. Most current Tudor watches use Tudor's own manufacture calibres. Older Tudors used movements from outside suppliers in Rolex-made cases.
Is a Tudor a good alternative to a Rolex?
Yes, for many buyers. It shares the heritage and build quality at a much lower price. A Rolex holds its value better.
How much does a Tudor cost?
In our stock, Tudor watches start at $880, with a typical price of $3,620.
Which is better for everyday wear?
Both are made for daily wear. The Black Bay 58 at 39 mm and the Submariner at 41 mm are among the most comfortable everyday dive watches.
