Rolex Datejust vs Submariner — two of the most iconic timepieces from the world’s leading luxury watch brand, Rolex. While both are timeless in their design and craftsmanship, they represent different worlds — the Datejust embodies elegance, and the Submariner captures the spirit of adventure. You can’t go wrong with either, but here’s a quick breakdown to help you decide which of these legendary watches best suits your lifestyle. Let’s start with their look and feel…

Design and Aesthetics

Case sizes and materials

The Datejust comes in sizes from 28mm to 41mm and is available in steel, gold, or a mix of both. You can go subtle with an all-steel model or bold with two-tone gold. The Submariner, on the other hand, is slightly larger at 41mm (40mm till 2020), built for durability, and offered in steel, two-tone, or full gold. The Submariner has a sportier edge.

Dial and bezel design

This is where the differences shine. The Datejust dial is about variety — sunburst finishes, Roman numerals, diamonds, textured patterns — you name it.

The Submariner keeps things simple and functional: a black or colored dial, bold luminous markers, and a rotating ceramic bezel that tracks passed time. No fancy textures, just pure legibility. Think of the Datejust as your tailored suit, and the Submariner as your favorite leather jacket.

Bracelet and clasp

The Datejust often comes on either the elegant Jubilee bracelet or the sportier Oyster bracelet. Both have the Easylink extension system for small adjustments during the day.

The Submariner uses the tougher Oyster bracelet with a Glidelock clasp that lets you fine-tune the fit in seconds. It’s practical for divers, but also great if your wrist swells in the heat.

Intended Use and Versatility

Everyday wear vs. diving tool

The Datejust is an everyday luxury watch. It effortlessly blends from work to dinner to weekend watch without feeling out of place. The Submariner was built for diving — a serious tool capable of handling the ocean’s depths — but it’s become just as common above water.

If your day involves more desks than deep dives, the Datejust fits better. If you want something tough that can handle anything, the Submariner won’t disappoint.

Formality and adaptability

In terms of “what looks more like a luxury watch”, the Datejust wins. It looks sharp with a suit, but still works with a T-shirt. The Submariner can do both, too, though its chunkier build and rotating bezel give it a more casual feel. If you’re after something that blends into more formal settings, the Datejust is the safer bet.

Price and Value Retention

The Datejust starts at a lower retail price than the Submariner, but both often sell above retail depending on demand. Based on past data, the Submariner has held its value better, thanks to limited supply and super high customer demand.

Comfort and Wearability

The Datejust is thinner and glides easily under a cuff, making it great for everyday use. The Submariner features a thicker case and feels a little heavier, which makes it stand out on your wrist.

When it comes to bracelets, the Jubilee on the Datejust is softer and more flexible, while the Submariner’s Oyster bracelet feels sturdier. Both are excellent, but the right one depends on what kind of comfort you prefer — refined or rugged.

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And to sum it up

If you want one watch that does it all — elegant and adaptable— the Rolex Datejust is hard to beat. But if you’re drawn to the sportier, more rugged side of Rolex and want something with stronger resale and history in adventure, go for the Submariner.

You really can’t go wrong with either.