Tudor Ranger Vs Rolex Explorer [Head-to-Head Comparison]

Tudor Ranger Vs Rolex Explorer

Will you agree that a timepiece that looks and feels like a Rolex but doesn’t have the iconic branding, might as well still be a Rolex? If you answered yes, then you’ll likely appreciate what Tudor has to offer. With that said, you’re in for a treat with this Tudor Ranger VS Rolex Explorer comparison review.

Rolex founder Hans Wilsdorf has created Tudor to sell affordable watches that can house 3rd-party movements inside Rolex cases. Tudor used to be not available in the United States but nowadays, it offers a wealth of mid-priced watches for fans and collectors alike.

Today, we have a head-to-head comparison of the Tudor Ranger vs Rolex Explorer. I have decided to highlight both these watches because they’re very similar in looks and feel. If budget is not an issue, I’d say you should go for the Explorer but otherwise, Tudor watches are a solid option for an extensive outdoor wear piece.

Read more below for my actual review.

Tudor Ranger vs Rolex Explorer: At a Glance

For today’s head-to-head comparison, we’re taking a look at the Tudor Heritage Ranger M79910 vs. Rolex Explorer 214270. Check out the quick specs of both watches below:

Tudor Ranger Vs Rolex Explorer

Tudor Heritage Ranger

Rolex Explorer

Reference:

79910

214270

Materials:

Stainless Steel

Oystersteel (stainless steel)

Size:

41 mm

39 mm

Dial:

Matte black with painted indexes

Gloss black with white gold applied indexes

Luminescence:

Super-LumiNova

Chromalight

Bracelet:

Choice of steel bracelet, fabric strap, leather band, bund strap

Oyster bracelet with Easylink 5mm comfort extension link

Crystal:

Dome sapphire

Flat sapphire

Movement:

Automatic ETA-based Tudor Cal. 2824

Automatic in-house Rolex Cal. 3132

Power reserve:

38 hours

48 hours

Water resistance:

150 meters

100 meters

Style and Design

When it comes to style and design, it’s easy to say that the Ranger and Explorer are very similar at first glance. However, upon closer look, you’ll see that there are some key differences between both timepieces. For instance, the Tudor Ranger looks more modern and rugged while the Rolex Explorer’s design is executed with more elegance.

Tudor Ranger Vs Rolex Explorer

Firstly, the Tudor Heritage Ranger M79910 gives off the impression that it’s a reliable tool watch. The quality of the case is definitely present and the brushed finish is truly a standout. As mentioned, the watch exudes a modern and relevant feel which is made more apparent with the ability to choose many different strap and bracelet choices. For me, the best bracelet to use is the nato strap and really completes the overall look of this rugged outdoor watch. As for the dial, it certainly fits the tool watch motif of the watch. Looking at both watches, there’s some hint of the Explorer heritage here but the influence is not that significant. Additionally, the dial is extremely clean and uncluttered but I won’t call the watch elegant.

Tudor Ranger Vs Rolex Explorer

On the other hand, we have the Rolex Explorer 214270 which comes with a timeless design. It’s the design that’s been honed over the years – classic and timeless but it has been updated for modern taste. The Explorer’s dial is very recognizable, thanks to its oversized Arabic hour numerals, the 3, 6, and 9. One of the most interesting or perhaps polarizing design choices is the matte dial. Under a light source, the dial becomes dark grey and gives the iconic logo a bit more character.

In terms of design, it all comes down if you prefer something more rugged or with timeless elegance. Both are good looking timepieces, that’s for sure.

Sizing

For sizing, the Ranger comes in a 41mm case size while the Explorer in a 39mm case. At first, it may seem like the 2mm difference isn’t that of a big deal on paper but it does make a big difference when on the wrist. This is mainly due to the case style.

The modern Rolex Explorer is the reference 214270 which brought about a bigger case size. Until 2010, the Rolex Explorer came in 36mm cases which I think is too small to begin with. Fortunately, Rolex did a good job of updating the Explorer with the leap to the larger 39mm Oystercase. This brought the Explorer to a broader market by appealing to the tastes of modern watch collectors. Rolex could have updated it to 41mm but it seems that they decided to keep the size in check. While 39mm is comparatively undersized in today’s standards, I think the size is just right for the Explorer.

On the other hand, the Tudor Ranger features a 41mm case which is larger than Explorer. Initially, I thought that the case size might be a little big but it’s a better fit than expected. At this size, the Ranger should have no problem fitting a broad range of wrist sizes. In my personal experience, the Ranger case afforded a comfortable fit especially with the right choice of strap or bracelet. Plus, it looks just write while sitting on my wrist, despite the larger size.

Construction

Both watches feature excellent construction and fit, so it’s hard to go wrong with either watch if you’re on the lookout for these categories.

Starting with the Ranger, the case is simple, brushed steel. I’m not the biggest fan of brushed finish but I think the style is growing on me. The satin brushed finish is great for a tool watch like the ranger. The bezel is fixed stainless steel, so there’s nothing too special in that regard. The lugs are drilled and relatively simple as well, with a lug-to-lug width of 48mm. The drilled lugs should come in handy when replacing the strap. The domed sapphire crystal does its job of protecting the watch. As a tough watch, it has a water resistance of 150 meters which is very respectable.

On the other hand, the Rolex Explorer comes with a fully brushed case and bracelet. However, some areas aren’t brushed like the case walls and bezel ring. I kind of like this construction decision because this gives the Explorer some versatility. Meaning, it can work as a full-fledged field watch or a formal-wear timepiece. That’s the Rolex attention to detail for you.

Wearability

Comfort and wearability for both watches are on the high marks as well.

Tudor Ranger Vs Rolex Explorer

As far as fit and comfort go, the Tudor Ranger is a joy to wear. The watch wears close to the wrist because of the trim height. However, the main highlight of the Ranger is the fact that the strap/bracelet can be swapped. Aside from the stainless steel bracelet, the Tudor Ranger can be used with a leather strap or Nato strap. In this case, my favorite is the Nato strap because it perfectly complements the watch’s rugged nature.

Tudor Ranger Vs Rolex Explorer

As you might expect, the Explorer just wears excellent on the wrist. At 39mm, the Explorer is the kind of watch that just disappears on your wrist when you’re not looking. The Oystersteel bracelet is comfortable and feeling fresh as ever. The clasp is the patented Oysterlock with a 5mm extension link which means that achieving that great fit shouldn’t be a problem. The Rolex Explorer is obviously a daily wearer but you should be able to get away wearing it with a suit and tie outfit.

Timekeeping

For me, timekeeping comes down to the movement that beats with each of the timepiece. In this case, the clear winner is the Rolex Explorer with its in-house movement versus the Tudor Ranger’s ETA movement.

Rolex 3132 Movement

First, inside the Rolex Explorer 214270 beats the Rolex-built caliber 3132, boasting a COSC-chronometer certification along with other latest timekeeping technology such as Parachrom hairspring and Paraflex shock absorbers. The 3132 movement is built like a tank and features an accuracy of +/- 2 seconds of deviation per day. The caseback is solid, so you can’t view the movement which is a bit of a shame since the 3132 is a solid, tried and true movement.

On the flip side, the Tudor Heritage Ranger M79910 is powered by the modified 2824 movement. It’s Tudor’s spin on the ubiquitous ETA 2824 and I think they did a great job of adding some oomph to it. It’s not an in-house movement but it’s still a very solid timekeeping component. Obviously, using an ETA-based movement is important for keeping the cost down. But there’s nothing to worry about because the 2824 movement is a reliable work horse.

Pricing

Perhaps the most significant difference in this Tudor Ranger vs Rolex Explorer showdown is the price. For most of our readers, this is the main point of contention between these two watches.

The retail price for the Rolex Explorer 214270 is around $6K while the Tudor Heritage Ranger M79910 is available between $2K – $3K. As you can see, the Explorer is twice as expensive as the Ranger which is hardly a surprise. Tudor has always been the less expensive option for people who want a luxury Swiss watch.

Conversely, the Ranger presents a more subdued aesthetic while the Explorer offers more flash. Relative to the price, the Range is a lot of watch for the money. It’s a luxury watch without paying the luxury tax. On the other hand, the Explorer counts as a pinnacle of watchmaking but be prepared to pay more.

Tudor Ranger vs Rolex Explorer: The Verdict

Which timepiece should you go for?

Personally, if budget is not an issue, there’s very little reason to go for the Tudor Ranger. The Rolex Explorer delivers on all fronts including style, reliability, features, and value. Resale value is also high with the Explorer.

Tudor Ranger Vs Rolex Explorer

On the other hand, the Tudor Ranger presents an attractive and less expensive option for collectors. It might be the less expensive model between the two but the quality, style, and durability are all present. It’s a great watch for day to day wear.

Best Tudor Watch: Affordable Luxury Watches You Can’t Miss

Best Tudor Watch

In the 1920s, Rolex founder Hans Wilsdorf has created the brand Tudor with the intention to sell more affordable timepieces and house third-party movements inside Rolex cases.

As a subsidiary of Rolex, the Tudor brand has always been popular with serious credibility. But this relationship has also trapped Tudor under the shadow of the premier Swiss luxury watch company.

Nowadays, Tudor is fast becoming one of the go-to brands for sports watches. While they still have the backing of Rolex, they still have the creative freedom to create some truly interesting models that provide practicality and style.

Today, we made a round-up of the best Tudor watch that should be worth your time and money. To save you the time, we picked the Tudor Pelagos LHD as the top choice but you want more options, feel free to check out the rest of the list.

Best Tudor Watch

Key Features

Our Rating

Tudor Pelagos LHD

Titanium case with a titanium bracelet, Uni-directional rotating titanium bezel, Black dial with luminous beige hands, 70-hour power reserve, Tudor caliber MT5612 automatic movement

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Tudor 1926 Automatic

Stainless steel case with a stainless steel bracelet, Fixed bezel, Minute markers around the outer rim, Tudor caliber 2824 automatic movement, 38 hours power reserve, Scratch resistant sapphire crystal

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Tudor Divers Black Bay Bronze

Bronze-coloured PVD bronze case, Uni-directional rotating matt slate grey aluminium bezel, Slate grey dial with bronze-coloured snowflake-shaped hands, Tudor caliber MT5601 automatic movement, 70-hour power reserve

★ ★ ★ ★ ½

Tudor Fastrider Black Shield

Tudor Caliber 7753, Brushed Black Ceramic Case, Self Winding Automatic Movement, 46 Hour Power Reserve, Chronograph Feature, Tachymeter Feature, 46 Hour Power Reserve

★ ★ ★ ★ ½

Tudor Heritage Ranger

Self-winding automatic watch, 41mm stainless steel case, Brown leather bund strap, stainless steel deployant buckle

★ ★ ★ ★

Tudor Glamour Day & Date

Stainless steel case, Fixed stainless steel bezel, Diamond-tipped index hour markers, ETA caliber 2834-2 automatic movement, Scratch resistant sapphire crystal, Water resistant at 100 meters / 330 feet

★ ★ ★ ★

Best Tudor Watch

1. Tudor Pelagos LHD

Best Tudor Watch

Regular readers of WatchIdeas will know that I’m a big fan of the Rolex Submariner. Therefore, it’s not surprising when I was drawn to the Tudor Pelagos LHD which is clearly inspired by the Sub.

Does The Submariner Proud

The Tudor Pelagos LHD might be inspired by Rolex’s most popular dive watch but it’s still a unique watch on its own. The LHD stands for Left Hand Drive and one of the first things you’ll notice is that the crown is located on the left.

With that said, the Tudor Pelagos LHD is perhaps the company’s most modern, technical dive model. It comes with Tudor’s in-house caliber MT5612 movement which is always appreciated. Water resistance is at 500 meters so you can use this more than just your usual recreational diving.

As for the dial, it’s worth pointing out that the Pelagos is, in fact, a spiritual update to the Snowflake Submariners of the 20th century – that’s one way of saying that it has a properly modern dial. The satin/matte black dial is a looker and the applied markers add a certain depth to its visual impact.

Overall, the Tudor Pelagos LHD is a bit tad overlooked but it might as well be the best Tudor watch as far as I’m concerned.

2. Tudor 1926 Automatic

Best Tudor Watch

Tudor features a solid collection of diving and military heritage. Since the brand’s return, Tudor has proven that they’re a master of balancing style and practicality. The Tudor 1926 Automatic is a great demonstration of Tudor’s vision.

Takes You Back to 1926

The Tudor 1926 is perhaps the entry-level model from the brand. At first, the 1926 looks like your typical dress watch but on closer inspection, you’ll see some unique elements that make this watch remarkable. Although it’s a watch that pairs wonderfully with a sharp suit, it’s also a piece that tells you, “Hey, it’s okay to get a little dirty.

Perhaps one of the most interesting design elements of the 1926 is the waffle dial. The waffle design adds a good deal of texture to the watch and is responsible for the watch’s vintage feel. It feels like a throwback to the old 1950’s Rolex models and is often referred to as “honeycomb dials.”

Another great thing about the 1926 Tudor collection is the numerous color options. First, there are nine possible variants in each case size of 41mm, 39mm, 36mm, or 28mm case widths. That’s a total of 36 different models which is nothing short of impressive. Some models feature diamond hour markers which are also more expensive.

Overall, the Tudor 1926 is an interesting combination of affordability and elegance.

3. Tudor Heritage Black Bay

Best Tudor Watch

We have yet another dive watch entry from Tudor. The Tudor Heritage Black Bay is perhaps the most successful model by this company – and for good reasons.

All You Need from a Dive Watch and More

The Tudor Heritage Black Bay collection has many great looking watches on its belt. However, my absolute favorite has got to be the Black Bay Bronze model. I think it’s one of the most handsome watches from Tudor.

The watch has been given the steampunk treatment with the anti-corrosive case metal. The subtle slate grey dial is a nice contrast with all the bronze which I think, won’t be as striking with a black dial. As you can see, this watch also channels the Submariner, particularly from the 50s and 60s. In terms of looks, it’s hard to go wrong with the Black Bay.

The Tudor Heritage Black Bay has everything that you need from a dive watch. Luminous hands, unidirectional rotating bezel, and a tough case that will serve you well underwater. Much like the Pelagos, the Heritage Black Bay comes with snowflake hands. For timekeeping, the watch is powered by the in-house Calibre MT5601 automatic movement.

Wrapping up, the Tudor Heritage Black Bay feels like a lesser-known classic which is a tragedy in itself. It’s certainly a model that should be more popular.

4. Tudor Fastrider Black Shield

Best Tudor Watch

If you love watches that are vehicle-themed, the Tudor Fastrider Black Shield is a model that you might just fall in love with.

All-Black Excellence

For some history, the Tudor Fastrider collection began in 2011 and it’s a partnership with Italian motorcycle maker Ducati. The Fastrider is more or less the official timepiece of Ducati, although you’ll find no label in the watch pointing to the Italian motorcycle. Well, other than the fact that both company logos are shields. This is more of a quiet collaboration which is honestly how I like it.

As you can see, the Fastrider Black Shield features a dark, all-black theme which is a reference to the cool style of the Ducati XDiavel motorcycle. The matte-black ceramic case and high contrast dial make for a rather conservative and sober profile. However, the watch does offer some very wonderful angles and lines. Another good thing about the ceramic case is that it’s resistant to scratches.

Despite the black design, the Tudor Fastrider Black Shield is quite legible although the hands could use a bit more work. The Fastrider is quite a pricey purchase but it’s still an affordable model considering it’s a collaboration piece.

5. Tudor Heritage Ranger

Best Tudor Watch

The Tudor Heritage Ranger comes highly recommended if you simply want an honest watch that just works and built to last. The Heritage Ranger is the result if you take a sport watch and distill it down to the essentials.

Tough and Honest Timepiece

On the surface, you’ll see that the Ranger is a simple enough watch. It has a black dial, steel case, three hands. There’s no bells or whistles but somehow, it’s a very striking model with a thoughtful design. At 41mm, the Ranger is decidedly a contemporary watch but I know that many purists will beg to differ.

In addition, perhaps the most interesting thing about the Range is its overall design. Tudor has knocked it out of the park in referencing the iconic Oyster case design but still stands out on its own. While the case certainly has a story to tell, the dial is the runaway winner here.

The matte dial against the eggshell finish looks great and provides subtle texture and richness to the watch. The dial mainly focuses on being clear and legible. However, I wish the indices and markers are applied for more depth.

Overall, the Range is a very well-made watch with no pretense.

6. Tudor Glamour Day & Date

Best Tudor Watch

Tudor has always been known for their classic sports watches like the Heritage and Black Bay collections. However, this doesn’t mean that the company doesn’t know how to do dress watches. Enter the Tudor Glamour Day & Date.

Dressier Tudor for Formal Events

Upon seeing the Tudor Glamour Day & Date in person, one quick observation I’ve had is that it’s a unisex timepiece. The Tudor Glamour Day & Date is one of those watches that will look good on both men and women. This is hardly a surprise especially when women love wearing oversized men’s watches.

Furthermore, the black dial in contrast with the gorgeous stainless steel case and band make for a seriously good-looking dress watch. Of course, like its namesake, the Day window is found at 12 o’clock and the Date aperture is located at the 3 o’clock position. Like many Tudor collections, the Glamour Day & Date comes in numerous options which is always a good thing.

Ultimately, if you’re in the market for a luxury dress watch but still fairly affordable, the Tudor Glamour Day & Date is a solid choice.

Tudor’s Best Are Looking Good

Best Tudor Watch

That wraps up our list of the best Tudor watch. Overall, Tudor is a great luxury brand but offers more affordable options. Certainly, it’s a brand that brings in the value proposition.

Tudor Black Bay VS Rolex Submariner [Comparison Review]

Tudor Black Bay VS Rolex Submariner

When it comes to luxury dive watches, Rolex has been at the top of the game due to the legendary Submariner watch. The Rolex Submariner is a watch that needs no introduction. For instance, it’s a top-rated dive watch both in mechanical and aesthetic aspects. Personally, the Submariner is a top 5 watch. However, in today’s Tudor Black Bay Vs Rolex Submariner comparison, a challenger is poised to give the Submariner a run for its money.

Although Tudor is Rolex’s subsidiary brand, it’s not widely considered to be an alternative to Rolex – at least in the past. Times have changed and tables have been turned. With Tudor’s return to the U.S. market, it has made some of the most impressive timepieces that nicely complements its parent company, Rolex. Certainly, one of the best Tudor watches has got to be the Tudor Heritage Black Bay.

For this Tudor Black Bay VS Rolex Submariner head-to-head, we take a look at these two amazing timepieces and hopefully help you answer the question, “should I get a Rolex or Tudor?”

Tudor Black Bay VS Rolex Submariner: At a Glance

For this timepiece comparison, we’ll pit the Rolex Submariner ref. 114060 with the Tudor Heritage Black Bay ref. 79230. Let’s first take a quick look at the specs of both watches:

Model:

Tudor Heritage Black Bay

Rolex Submariner

Reference #:

m79230n-0009

114060

Model case:

41 mm steel case with polished and satin finish

Oyster, 40 mm, Oystersteel

Dial:

Black with pink index, domed

Black

Material:

Steel

Oystersteel

Bezel:

Steel unidirectional rotatable bezel with disc in matt black anodised aluminium

Unidirectional rotatable 60-minute graduated, scratch-resistant Cerachrom insert in ceramic, numerals and graduations coated in platinum

Winding crown:

Screw-down steel winding crown, with the TUDOR rose engraved and black-lacquered, with black anodised aluminium winding crown tube

Screw-down, Triplock triple waterproofness system

Crystal:

Domed sapphire crystal

Scratch-resistant sapphire

Water Resistance:

200 m (660 ft)

300 meters / 1,000 feet

Movement:

Self-winding mechanical movement with bidirectional rotor system

Perpetual, mechanical, self-winding

Caliber:

Manufacture Calibre MT5602 (COSC)

3130, Manufacture Rolex

Functions:

Hours, minutes, seconds; 4Hz frequency, Unidirectional rotating bezel, COSC-certified automatic movement

Centre hour, minute and seconds hands. Stop-seconds for precise time setting

Oscillator:

Paramagnetic blue Parachrom hairspring

Power reserve:

70 hours

48 hours

Bracelet:

Steel riveted bracelet / Aged leather / Fabric strap

Oystersteel

Clasp:

Folding buckle and safety clasp

Folding Oysterlock safety clasp with Rolex Glidelock extension system

Tudor Black Bay VS Rolex Submariner: The Comparison

Size and Design

Tudor Black Bay VS Rolex Submariner

Based on the specs, the Tudor Heritage Black Bay is bigger both in diameter and height. The 1 millimeter difference in size may not sound like much but once you have both watches on your wrist, you’ll see a considerable difference. If you have a smaller wrist, the difference in size becomes a lot more pronounced. Also, the extra thickness of the Tudor makes it taller than the Submariner. The taller case sides allow the Black Bay to sit closer to the wrist. For the size, I think both watches fairly similar. It’s all down to your personal preference.

When looking at the design, it’s obvious that there’s a shared heritage between the Submariner and Black Bay. The Submariner features a buttoned-down approach to design while the Black Bay has a more laid-back feel. If the Rolex Submariner was designed by men in lab coats, the Tudor Black Bay was designed by bearded men in no-socks boots. The Black Bay feels more relaxed and filled with nostalgic details. A good example of this is Tudor’s gilt dial, the splash of red on the bezel, and the riveted bracelet.

Tudor Black Bay VS Rolex Submariner

On the flip side, the main thing that goes for the Rolex Submariner is the word “Rolex” itself. The tighter hand stack, more complex ridges, and better finish are just some of the more superior design elements of the Sub. The details on the Rolex are also leagues ahead when compared to the Tudor. It’s a legendary design for a reason.

Build Quality and Construction

Tudor Black Bay VS Rolex Submariner

When it comes to the build quality, the Submariner and Black Bay don’t disappoint. However, the Sub boasts some finer details and a slightly nicer finish if you care to look. Considering the cost difference between these two watches, it’s not a surprise that the Submariner comes out on top in terms of build quality. Having said that, both watches have excellent quality.

Both watches feel solid and robust, and there’s no rattling or components that are off. Try rotating the bezels from both watches and you’ll never get the impression that it’s made of cheap plastic.

Tudor Black Bay VS Rolex Submariner

The major difference between the two is the purpose for which these watches are built. The Black Bay is a Tudor Heritage model which means that it uses traditional parts. For instance, the Black Bay makes use of a matte black dial in comparison to the Sub’s ceramic dial.

Another major difference is that the Submariner uses a ceramic insert while the Black Bay has an aluminum bezel insert which is less durable and resistant to scratches. The Tudor’s case looks to be inspired by the vintage dive watches of old while Rolex has abandoned that case design many years ago.

Movement and Timekeeping

Rolex 3130 Movement

The movement is where most of the price difference comes from. The Submariner uses the “No Date” Rolex caliber 3130 which is, of course, an in-house movement. The 3130 movement boasts 48 hours of power reserve, a frequency of 28,800 beats per hour, and a track record of long-term durability. The movement is fitted with a Parachrom hairspring for added durability and it becomes resistant against magnetic fields.

Tudor Caliber MT5602

On the other hand, the 2016 model of the Black Bay comes with a caliber MT5602 which is a COSC certified movement. The MT5602 movement offers an impressive 70 hours power reserve which is almost a day of power compared to the Sub’s power reserve. It’s worth noting that this is the first run of the Black Bay that runs on an in-house movement, not a modified ETA movement like with the previous models.

In terms of accuracy, the Submariner clearly has the upper hand with the unprecedented -2/+2 second per day accuracy. Conversely, the Black Bay’s accuracy comes down to a respectable -4 and +6 seconds per day. At the end of the day, the layman can’t probably tell the difference but purists will likely choose the Submariner.

Comfort and Wearability

The Submariner comes with the signature solid link Oyster bracelet and it’s a strong case for the “if it ain’t broke” mantra. It’s the mainstay of the Rolex brand and it’s definitely one of the best elements of the Submariner. Furthermore, the Oysterlock clasp prevents any accidental opening and the Glidelock system enables you to adjust the watch without tools. This is an important feature for divers who are wearing the Sub over their diving suit.

Tudor Black Bay VS Rolex Submariner

On the other hand, we have the Tudor Black Bay which boasts an array of bracelet/strap options. I got the riveted stainless steel bracelet model for this review and it’s fitted with folding buckle and safety clasp. The bracelet is actually a redesign of the old Tudor bracelets from the 1950s to 1960s. The riveted bracelet does have a memorable design which adds a lot of personality to the piece.

The key difference between the two bracelets is in the clasp which also affects the overall difference in wearability and comfort. Although the two claps work in virtually the same way, the Submariner’s clasp features a micro-adjust system which is the aforementioned Glidelock system. Making adjustments with the Rolex Submariner 114060 is far easier when compared to the Black Bay since the latter needs an adjustment tool.

Pricing

The pricing is obviously an important factor when deciding between the Tudor Black Bay VS Rolex Submariner. Firstly, when you look at the retail price for both watches, you’ll see that the Submariner more or less costs double the Black Bay. Secondly, as a subsidiary brand of Rolex, it’s no surprise that the Tudor Black Bay is much less expensive when compared to the Sub. So if you’re going for the price alone, the Tudor Black Bay is a solid luxury watch.

However, once you look past the actual price, you’ll see that there’s merit to choosing the Submariner over the Black Bay – I’m referring to the resale value. For instance, if you take a glance at the secondhand market, you’ll notice that the Black Bay decreases in value whereas, the Submariner is sold higher than the retail price. If you’re planning to resale the watch down the line, the Submariner is the clear winner.

Overall, collectors who are looking for a dive watch but can’t quite splurge for a Rolex, the Tudor Black Bay is more than a viable alternative. Alternatively, the venerable Submariner is a legendary timepiece with a rich history, so it’s hard to go wrong with a Sub especially for first-time collectors.

Tudor Black Bay VS Rolex Submariner: The Verdict

Tudor Black Bay VS Rolex Submariner

In this Tudor Black Bay Vs Rolex Submariner comparison, both watches are fairly similar with some key differences. However, there’s no doubt that both of these watches are excellent in their own right. This is one of the many reasons why people are stuck with the Black Bay vs Submariner dilemma.

Ultimately, the main deciding factor for choosing between the two is the price point. The Submariner is almost $8,000 which is within the price expectation for a Rolex. The Submariner commands respect with its build quality and near-flawless design. Overall, it really is one of the most beautiful watches ever made and it’s worth the price tag.

On the other hand, we have the Black Bay which costs less than half of the Submariner. Also, the Tudor goes for a faux vintage vibe but it’s decidedly the more playful and relaxed timepiece, for instance. If you’re into a more youthful and fun watch that’s not going to break the bank, the Tudor Heritage Black Bay gets my highest recommendation.