Two watches. Both iconic. Both unmistakably Rolex. But the Submariner and the GMT Master II are built for entirely different people. If you have been trying to decide between the two, this guide will help you make the right choice.
The Rolex Submariner — Born for the Deep
Introduced in 1953, the Submariner was the world’s first dive watch rated to 100 metres — later upgraded to 300 metres. Its clean dial, rotating bezel and Oyster case became the blueprint for every sports watch that followed. James Bond wore one. Steve McQueen wore one. It is arguably the most recognisable watch on earth.
The Rolex GMT Master II — Built for the Skies
The GMT Master was created in 1954 in collaboration with Pan American Airways for their transatlantic pilots. It features a 24-hour bezel and an additional GMT hand that tracks a second timezone simultaneously. The iconic two-tone Pepsi and Batman bezels have made it one of the most coveted Rolex references ever produced.
Key Differences at a Glance
The Submariner is a dive watch — water resistant to 300 metres, with a unidirectional rotating bezel used to track dive time. The GMT Master II is a travel watch — built for people who live across multiple timezones, with a bidirectional bezel and dual timezone functionality. Both are 40-41mm, both use the Oyster bracelet, and both are powered by Rolex’s in-house movements.
Who Should Buy the Submariner?
The Submariner is for you if you want the ultimate everyday sports watch. It is versatile enough to wear with a suit and rugged enough for the ocean. Its clean, minimalist dial works in any setting. If you want one Rolex that does everything — the Submariner is the answer.
Who Should Buy the GMT Master II?
The GMT Master II is for you if you travel frequently or work across timezones. It is also for you if you want something slightly more distinctive than the Submariner. The coloured bezels — Pepsi, Batman, Root Beer — give it a personality that the Submariner’s all-black setup doesn’t have. It is a conversation starter on every wrist.
Price Comparison
At retail an authentic Submariner starts at around $9,100 and the GMT Master II starts at around $10,700. However both are notoriously difficult to obtain at retail price — grey market premiums push both watches well above $15,000 to $20,000 depending on reference and condition.
Get the Look at a Fraction of the Price
Whether you are drawn to the Submariner’s clean elegance or the GMT Master’s adventurous spirit — our Rolex collection features super clone versions of both references. Every detail is replicated to the highest standard, from the weight of the bracelet to the smooth sweep of the movement.
Final Verdict
There is no wrong choice between the Submariner and the GMT Master II. Both are timeless. Both hold their value. Both will turn heads. The real question is — are you a diver or a traveller? Answer that and your choice is made.