Two watches, perhaps the two most well-known in Rolex’s sports watch lineup, have amazing similarities, and one can be forgiven for confusing them at a distance. These two watches are, of course, the Rolex Submariner dive watch (ref. 126610) and the GMT-Master II (we’ll call it the GMT for short, but we’re talking about the current ref. 126710).
Both the Submariner and the Rolex GMT-Master II have a rich history and have become symbols of adventure, whether it’s exploring the depths of the ocean or navigating through different time zones. While these two models share many similarities in their design and construction, they also have distinct features that cater to different needs and preferences.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the current models of the Rolex Submariner (ref. 126610) and the GMT-Master II (Rolex 126710), comparing their similarities and differences to help you understand what sets these two remarkable watches apart. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or simply appreciate fine timepieces, this comparison will provide valuable insights into two of Rolex’s most beloved creations.
The Submariner GMT Master Comparison
When comparing the current models of the Rolex Submariner 126610 and the GMT-Master II 126710, it’s easy to see why many people might confuse them at a glance. Both watches share a similar aesthetic and are both part of Rolex’s sports watch lineup, making them popular choices for those who lead active lifestyles or simply appreciate the brand’s iconic design language.
The Submariner and GMT-Master II have evolved over the years, with each new iteration bringing improvements and refinements to their respective designs. The latest references, 126610 for the Submariner and 126710 for the GMT-Master II, showcase Rolex’s commitment to innovation while staying true to the watches’ original spirit and functionality.
Despite their similarities, the Submariner and GMT-Master II are designed to cater to different needs. The Submariner is primarily a dive watch, with features focused on underwater functionality and durability. The GMT-Master II, on the other hand, is geared towards travelers and professionals who need to keep track of multiple time zones simultaneously.
In the following sections, we’ll dive deeper into the similarities and differences between these two models, examining factors such as size, price, thickness, bracelet, and key features. By understanding the unique characteristics of each watch, you’ll be better equipped to decide which one best suits your lifestyle and preferences.
Similarities
The Rolex Submariner (ref. 126610) and GMT-Master II (ref. 126710) share several key features that contribute to their overall design and performance. Some of the most notable similarities are their case type, sizing, and material. Both watches are housed in the Rolex super case, which has become a signature of Rolex’s modern sports watches. This case design, introduced in the late 2000s, features slightly thicker lugs and crown guards, giving the watches a more substantial and robust appearance.
The Super case is crafted from 904L stainless steel, a high-quality alloy that is more resistant to corrosion and offers a superior finish compared to the more commonly used 316L stainless steel. Rolex’s choice of 904L stainless steel ensures that both the Submariner and GMT-Master II maintain their luster and durability over time, even when exposed to harsh environments.
Another shared feature between the two models is the use of a ceramic or Cerachrom bezel insert. Rolex’s proprietary Cerachrom material is a type of ceramic that is virtually scratch-proof and resistant to fading, ensuring that the bezel maintains its vibrant color and pristine appearance throughout the watch’s lifetime. The Cerachrom bezel insert also offers a more luxurious look and feel compared to the aluminum inserts used in earlier models.
Both the Submariner and GMT-Master II are powered by COSC-certified chronometer movements. The Submariner (ref. 126610) features the caliber 3235, while the GMT-Master II (ref. 126710) uses the caliber 3285. These movements are designed and manufactured in-house by Rolex and undergo rigorous testing to ensure they meet the strict standards set by the Contrôle Officiel Suisse des Chronomètres (COSC). This certification guarantees that the watches maintain an impressive accuracy of -2/+2 seconds per day, a testament to Rolex’s commitment to precision and reliability.
Rolex GMT Master vs Submariner Price
The prices of the Rolex Submariner and GMT-Master II can vary depending on factors such as materials, complications, and market demand. As of 2021, the Submariner (ref. 126610LN) in stainless steel with a black dial and bezel has a retail price of $9,150 USD. The GMT-Master II (ref. 126710BLNR) in stainless steel with a black and blue “Batman” bezel, on the other hand, has a retail price of $9,700 USD. The slightly higher price of the GMT-Master II can be attributed to its additional complication, the GMT function, which allows for tracking multiple time zones simultaneously.
Rolex GMT vs Submariner Thickness
As mentioned earlier, the Rolex Submariner (ref. 126610) has a slightly thicker case at 12.5mm compared to the GMT-Master II’s (ref. 126710) 12.0mm. This difference in thickness is primarily due to the Submariner’s higher water resistance rating, which necessitates a more robust case construction. Despite this difference, both watches wear comfortably on the wrist and offer a balanced and proportional appearance.
Rolex Submariner vs GMT-Master II Bracelet
The Rolex Submariner and GMT-Master II feature similar Rolex Oyster bracelets, but with a few key differences. The Submariner (ref. 126610) comes equipped with a folding Oysterlock safety clasp and the Glidelock extension system. The Glidelock allows for fine adjustments of the bracelet length in 2mm increments, up to a total of 20mm. This feature is particularly useful for divers who need to adjust their bracelet to fit over a wetsuit.
The GMT-Master II (ref. 126710), on the other hand, features a folding Oysterlock safety clasp with an Easylink comfort extension link. The Easylink allows for a quick 5mm extension of the bracelet, providing added comfort during fluctuations in wrist size throughout the day. While the Easylink is not as adjustable as the Glidelock, it still offers a convenient way to fine-tune the bracelet’s fit.
Differences
Despite their similarities, the Rolex Submariner (ref. 126610) and GMT-Master II (ref. 126710) have several distinct features that set them apart. One of the most notable differences is the GMT-Master II’s additional hour hand, which is designed to track a second-time zone. This fourth hand, paired with the bi-directional rotating 24-hour bezel, allows the wearer to simultaneously read up to three different time zones. The Submariner, in contrast, is a classic three-handed watch, displaying only hours, minutes, and seconds.
The GMT-Master II’s bezel is marked with 24 one-hour increments, enabling the wearer to align the 24-hour hand with the desired time zone on the bezel. This feature is particularly useful for travelers who frequently cross time zones or need to keep track of time in different parts of the world. The Submariner’s bezel, on the other hand, is designed for diving and features a 60-minute scale with markings every five minutes. This allows divers to easily track their elapsed dive time and remaining air supply.
Another difference between the two models is the availability of options. The Submariner is offered with or without a date function, depending on the reference, which you can learn more about on our Rolex Subamariner no date guide. The date model features a date window at the 3 o’clock position and is equipped with a Cyclops lens for easy reading. The Submariner is also available in various metal combinations, including stainless steel, white gold, yellow gold, and two-tone (stainless steel and yellow gold).
The GMT-Master II, while primarily offered in stainless steel, is also available in white gold and two-tone (stainless steel and Everose gold) variations. The watch is typically paired with a bi-color Cerachrom bezel insert, such as the popular “Batman” (black and blue) and “Pepsi” (red and blue) designs. These color combinations are not only aesthetically pleasing but also serve a practical purpose, helping the wearer quickly distinguish between day and night hours on the 24-hour scale.
While both the Submariner and GMT-Master II are water-resistant, the Submariner boasts a higher rating of 300m (1,000ft) compared to the GMT-Master II’s 100m (330ft). This difference is due to the Submariner’s purpose as a dive watch, requiring greater water resistance to withstand the pressures encountered during deep-sea exploration.
The Rolex Submariner and GMT-Master II also have slightly different case sizes. The Submariner has a larger case, measuring 41mm in diameter, while the GMT-Master II has a diameter of 40mm. The Submariner also has a slightly thicker case at 12.5mm compared to the GMT-Master II’s 12.0mm. This difference is due to the Submariner’s higher water resistance rating, which requires a slightly thicker case construction. However, this difference in thickness is barely noticeable on the wrist and does not significantly impact the overall wearing experience.
Key Features of Rolex Submariner
The Rolex Submariner (ref. 126610) is a quintessential dive watch that has set the standard for underwater timepieces since its introduction in 1953. One of the most crucial features of the Submariner is its unidirectional rotating bezel, which plays a vital role in ensuring divers’ safety during their underwater adventures.
The Submariner’s bezel is designed to rotate only counterclockwise, a feature that serves as a safeguard against accidental extension of dive times. Before descending, divers set the bezel’s zero marker (triangle) to align with the minute hand, allowing them to easily track their elapsed dive time. If the bezel is accidentally moved during the dive, it will only shorten the indicated time, thus reducing the risk of overextending the dive and running out of air.
The bezel insert is made from Rolex’s proprietary Cerachrom material, a type of ceramic that is highly resistant to scratches and fading. The bezel features a 60-minute scale with graduations every five minutes, enabling divers to precisely monitor their time underwater. The numerals and markings on the bezel are coated with a platinum PVD (Physical Vapor Deposition) finish, ensuring excellent legibility even in low-light conditions.
Another essential feature of the Submariner is its impressive water resistance rating of 300 meters (1,000 feet). This exceptional water resistance is achieved through a combination of factors, including the Oyster case’s robust construction, the Triplock crown system, and the helium escape valve (present on the ref. 126610LN model). The Triplock crown, which screws down securely against the case, features three sealed zones to prevent water infiltration. The helium escape valve, a small one-way valve on the side of the case, allows helium gas to safely escape during decompression in a hyperbaric chamber, preventing damage to the watch.
The Submariner’s dial is designed for optimal legibility underwater, with large, luminescent hour markers and hands. The Chromalight display, Rolex’s proprietary luminescent material, emits a long-lasting blue glow in dark conditions, making it easy for divers to read the time even in low visibility environments.
With its unidirectional bezel, superior water resistance, and excellent legibility, the Rolex Submariner (ref. 126610) is a reliable and functional tool watch that has earned its place as an icon in the world of diving and horology.
Key Features of Rolex GMT-Master II
The Rolex GMT-Master II (ref. 126710) is a watch designed with travelers in mind, offering a sophisticated and practical solution for keeping track of multiple time zones. The most distinctive feature of the GMT-Master II is its additional hour hand, which completes one revolution every 24 hours, allowing the wearer to read a second time zone simultaneously.
This fourth hand, known as the GMT hand, is paired with a bi-directional rotating 24-hour bezel. The bezel is marked with 24 one-hour increments, enabling the wearer to align the GMT hand with the desired time zone. By rotating the bezel, the watch can display up to three different time zones: local time (indicated by the primary hour hand), home time or a second time zone (indicated by the GMT hand), and a third time zone (read from the GMT hand in relation to the 24-hour scale on the bezel).
The bi-directional bezel is a key feature of the GMT-Master II, as it allows for quick and easy adjustment of the displayed time zones. The bezel insert is made from Rolex’s Cerachrom ceramic material, which is resistant to scratches and fading, ensuring that the 24-hour markings remain clearly visible over time. The numerals and graduations on the bezel are coated with a thin layer of platinum or gold (depending on the model) via PVD (Physical Vapor Deposition), enhancing their legibility and luxurious appearance.
One of the most popular bezel color combinations for the GMT-Master II is the “Batman” (ref. 126710BLNR), which features a split-color design with blue and black ceramic. This color scheme not only adds a distinctive aesthetic to the watch but also serves a practical purpose, helping the wearer quickly distinguish between day (blue) and night (black) hours on the 24-hour scale.
The GMT-Master II’s movement, caliber 3285, is a self-winding mechanical movement entirely developed and manufactured by Rolex. This movement features a Paramagnetic blue Parachrom hairspring, which offers greater resistance to shocks and temperature variations, ensuring excellent accuracy and reliability. The movement also boasts an impressive power reserve of approximately 70 hours, allowing the watch to maintain its timekeeping precision even when not worn for an extended period.
With its additional 24-hour hand, bi-directional rotating bezel, and robust movement, the Rolex GMT-Master II (ref. 126710) is a functional and stylish choice for frequent travelers and those who appreciate the convenience of tracking multiple time zones on a single timepiece.
Vintage Rolex GMT-Master vs Submariner
When comparing vintage Rolex sports watches, the GMT-Master ref. 1675 and the Submariner ref. 5512 and 5513 are among the most sought-after models by collectors. These watches, produced from the late 1950s to the early 1980s, showcase the brand’s rich heritage and serve as a testament to Rolex’s timeless design and enduring quality.
The GMT-Master ref. 1675, introduced in 1959, was the successor to the original GMT-Master ref. 6542. This model features a 40mm stainless steel case, an acrylic crystal, and a bi-directional rotating bezel with a 24-hour Bakelite or aluminum insert, depending on the production year. The watch is powered by the caliber 1565 or 1575 movement, which allows for the independent adjustment of the GMT hand. Compared to modern GMT-Master II models, the ref. 1675 has a more vintage aesthetic, with its smaller crown guards, matte dial, and tritium luminescent markers.
When comparing the vintage Submariner 5512 and 5513, both introduced in 1962, are iconic dive watches that have greatly influenced the design of modern Submariners. These models feature a 40mm stainless steel case, an acrylic crystal, and a uni-directional rotating bezel with a 60-minute scale. The ref. 5512 is equipped with the caliber 1570 movement and features a date window at 3 o’clock, while the ref. 5513 is a no-date model powered by the caliber 1520 movement. Compared to current Submariners, the vintage models have a more modest appearance, with thinner lugs, smaller crown guards, and a glossy or matte dial with tritium luminescent markers.
One of the unique features of vintage Rolex sports watches is the patina that develops on the dial and luminescent markers over time. The tritium used on the dials of the GMT-Master ref. 1675 and Submariner ref. 5512 and 5513 often ages to a warm, creamy color, which is highly prized by collectors. The bezels of these vintage models are also prone to fading and discoloration, adding to their charm and character.
In recent years, vintage Rolex sports watches have seen a significant appreciation in value, with prices for well-preserved examples reaching record highs at auction. The GMT-Master ref. 1675 and Submariner ref. 5512 and 5513 are particularly popular among collectors, as they represent a crucial era in Rolex’s history and showcase the brand’s commitment to innovation and quality.
The popularity of these vintage Rolex models can be attributed to several factors, including their rarity, historical significance, and timeless design. Many collectors are drawn to the unique patina and imperfections that develop over time, as these characteristics add to the watch’s story and individuality. Additionally, owning a vintage Rolex sports watch is often seen as a status symbol and a wise investment, as their value is likely to continue appreciating in the future.
GMT Batman vs Submariner
The GMT-Master II Rolex Batman (ref. 126710BLNR) and the Submariner (ref. 126610LN) are two of Rolex’s most popular sports watches, each with its own unique features and aesthetic appeal. While both models share similarities in their construction and overall design, the GMT-Master II “Batman” stands out with its distinctive black and blue Cerachrom bezel.
Introduced in 2013, the GMT-Master II “Batman” was the first Rolex watch to feature a bi-colored Cerachrom bezel. The bezel is split into two halves, with the top portion in blue and the bottom in black. This color scheme is not only visually striking but also serves a practical purpose, allowing the wearer to easily distinguish between day (blue) and night (black) hours on the 24-hour scale. The blue and black colors are achieved through a complex manufacturing process, where the ceramic is first colored entirely in blue, then half of it is carefully masked and the exposed portion is changed to black.
The Submariner, on the other hand, features a uni-directional rotating bezel with a black Cerachrom insert and a 60-minute diving scale. While the Submariner’s bezel is undeniably functional and aesthetically pleasing, it lacks the eye-catching contrast of the GMT-Master II “Batman’s bi-color design.
Another difference between the two models is their functionality. The GMT-Master II “Batman” is designed for travelers, with its additional 24-hour hand and bi-directional bezel allowing for easy tracking of multiple time zones. The Submariner, conversely, is primarily a dive watch, with features like a unidirectional bezel and higher water resistance (300m compared to the GMT-Master II’s 100m) catering to the needs of underwater explorers.
Despite these differences, both the GMT-Master II “Batman” and the Submariner share many of Rolex’s signature features, such as the Oyster case, Triplock crown, and Chromalight luminescent display. Both watches are also powered by highly accurate and reliable in-house movements – the caliber 3285 for the GMT-Master II and the caliber 3235 for the Submariner.
Ultimately, the choice between the GMT-Master II “Batman” and the Submariner comes down to personal preference and intended use. The Batman’s unique blue and black bezel, coupled with its GMT functionality, makes it an attractive choice for frequent travelers and those who appreciate bold, eye-catching design. The Submariner, with its classic styling and robust diving features, remains the go-to for underwater enthusiasts and those who prefer a more traditional and understated look.
Rolex GMT Pepsi or Submariner
When comparing the GMT-Master II Rolex Pepsi (ref. 126710BLRO) and the Submariner (ref. 126610LN), it’s essential to consider both watches’ unique histories and iconic designs. The GMT-Master II “Pepsi” is particularly notable for its striking red and blue Cerachrom bezel, which has become a symbol of Rolex’s innovation and heritage.
The history of the Rolex GMT-Master takes us back to 1955 when the model was launched. The GMT-Master was developed in collaboration with Pan American World Airways (Pan Am) to assist their pilots in keeping track of multiple time zones during transatlantic flights. The watch featured a distinct red and blue bezel, with the colors representing day (red) and night (blue) hours on the 24-hour scale. This color scheme quickly earned the nickname “Pepsi” due to its resemblance to the famous soda company’s logo.
Over the years, the GMT-Master and its successor, the GMT-Master II, have featured various bezel color combinations, but the red and blue “Pepsi” design remains one of the most recognizable and sought-after. In 2014, Rolex reintroduced the “Pepsi” bezel on a white gold GMT-Master II (ref. 116719BLRO), using their proprietary Cerachrom ceramic material. This marked the first time the iconic color scheme was available on a ceramic bezel, as the bi-color design was previously difficult to achieve with this material.
In 2018, Rolex released the stainless steel GMT-Master II “Pepsi” (ref. 126710BLRO), making the beloved red and blue bezel more accessible to a wider audience. The Cerachrom bezel, like that of the “Batman” model, is highly resistant to scratches and fading, ensuring that the vibrant colors remain intact over time.
The Submariner, while lacking the GMT-Master II Pepsi’s iconic color scheme, has its own rich history and timeless design. Introduced in 1953, the Submariner was one of the first dive watches capable of withstanding the pressures of deep-sea exploration. Its black bezel and dial, combined with its robust construction and excellent legibility, have made it a favorite among divers and watch enthusiasts alike.
When choosing between the GMT-Master II “Pepsi” and the Submariner, it’s important to consider both their functional differences and aesthetic appeal. The GMT-Master II “Pepsi” offers the convenience of tracking multiple time zones and features a unique, eye-catching bezel design that pays homage to Rolex’s history. The Submariner, on the other hand, is a classic dive watch with a more understated appearance and superior water resistance.
Ultimately, both the GMT-Master II “Pepsi” and the Submariner are exceptional timepieces that showcase Rolex’s commitment to quality, innovation, and heritage. The choice between them largely depends on personal style preferences and the intended use of the watch.
