The watch a man wears is directly proportional to his success and prestige. Thus, his priority is always a Rollie that screams exclusivity and class.
To live up to the gentleman’s expectations, Rolex has built a phenomenal product lineup that appeals to those fond of rarity.
Two of these iconic watches are the Rolex Yacht-Master and Submariner, both launched in different years, with unique designs, and for varying purposes. Yet, both have garnered an immense fanbase because of their allure and are collectors’ favorite.
But the brand’s magnetism aside, which of these watches is better? By being better, we mean the functionality, design elements, and investment potential. This guide will focus on comparing Yacht-Master and Submariner to show which one tips the balance. Let’s explore and see whether to invest in a Yacht or a Sub.
The biggest difference between a Rolex Yacht-Master and a Rolex Submariner comparison is their functionality. To understand that, let’s go back in time.
A chronometer is a precision timekeeping device that maintains accurate time despite the motions encountered during sea voyages. It helps sailors determine their longitude at sea by comparing the time at a reference location with the local solar time, which eventually helps with sea navigation.
Notably, the Kew Observatory in Great Britain was the premier institution for the certification of chronometric precision. Rolex achieved a milestone in 1914 when it got the first wristwatch, the Yacht-Master (YM), certified as a chronometer from the Kew Observatory. That’s how the Yachty came into being and became sailors’ favorite across continents since it made timekeeping error-free during long sails.
The Rolex Submariner was introduced in 1953 as the pioneering divers’ wristwatch. Unlike the chronometer Yacht-Master, it just shows time and date, nothing about the longitude in the waters.
The Submariner was initially water-resistant up to 100 meters (330 feet) and now to 300 meters (1,000 feet). Its key features, including luminescent display and prominent hands and markers, have greatly influenced the development of subsequent Rolex divers’ watches.
Since it was designed as a tool watch for underwater activities, the Submariner’s design focuses on the practical requirements of divers. Over the years, the Submariner has undergone technical and aesthetic changes that improved its functionality and made it the standard in divers’ watches.
The Yachty is for a sailor of long routes who must keep track of time and needs a tool watch for that. Its features, like an impressively legible dial and sturdy build, make sure its glam remains the same despite tough environmental conditions. The lux appeal of a Yacht-Master is hard to ignore because it graces any wrist it goes on.
The Rolex Submariner was the first luxury watch built for divers who want an easy-to-read dial and a bracelet that nicely hugs the wrist without slipping. Divers have been taking the Sub to deep waters for years and swear by its practicality. Yet, its charm on a regular day can daze any other watch, so the wearer can flaunt it anywhere.
The Rolex Yacht-Master is available in 3 case sizes, 37mm, 40mm, and 42mm so the wearer can experience superior craftsmanship in their desired case size. Interestingly, the YM is available in multiple elite-quality materials.
For example, we have a Yacht-Master with a Rolseium bracelet, which is a combination of Oyster Steel and Platinum. This one is the most affordable YM watch since other materials are costlier.
Speaking of the cost, the Yacht-Master also comes in an Everose build, i.e., Rolex’s proprietary 18k rose gold alloy. Other materials used to make the Yachty are white gold yellow Rolesor (mixture of yellow gold and Oyster Steel), and some prestigious gem-set models.
The gem-set Yacht-Master watches have diamonds and sapphires in their dials which elevate their lustrous appeal and look as sleek.
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Focusing on the case size in our Yacht-Master vs. Submariner comparison, the sub has a standard configuration. Earlier, all Submariners came with a 40mm case size, but in 2020, the brand revamped to make all watches from this lineup 41mm. The changed case size has slender lugs, which means the watch feels similar to the previous models when worn on the wrist.
One of the major differences between Rolex Yacht-Master and Submariner is their bracelet materials. You can find a pure Oyster Steel Sub, which means the base price for this model is cheaper than the Yachty. Moving onto more precious materials, the Rolex Submariner is also made with pure yellow gold and Rolesor (yellow gold and Oyster Steel).
The Yacht-Master has a sandblasted platinum bidirectional rotatable bezel that aims to deliver functionality and elegance. The bidirectional rotation helps the sailor measure time intervals, and because it can rotate both ways, it’s more practical for precision timing.
The Yachty also has a Chromalight luminescent display to promise uncompromised readability even amidst sea storms and at night. The watch also boasts a blue parachrom hairspring crafted from a quality alloy to be highly resistant to magnetic fields, temperature changes, and shocks. Moreover, the use of platinum gives the bezel a luxurious feel while also promising durability.
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The Submariner has a unidirectional rotatable bezel made from corrosion-resistant ceramic. It’s built to withstand the harsh conditions of underwater environments. The unidirectional function allows the bezel to only turn counterclockwise, which means that even if the bezel is accidentally knocked during a dive, the elapsed time will never be underestimated.
Moreover, the Rolex Submariner’s hands resemble the Mercedes logo as it has a three-point star shape in the hour hand to improve visibility. Most Submariner models come with black dials, a classic look that pairs with its rugged and refined aesthetic. However, certain gold Submariners have blue dials, which are reserved for yellow gold or Rolesor (gold and steel) models.
Notably, the no-date Submariner is exclusive to the models with an Oyster Steel bracelet. It’s a minimal design that attracts purists who prefer the simplicity of a time-only display. Some other Submariner models feature a date window on the dial with Rolex’s signature Cyclops lens for magnification.
The Yacht-Master provides flexibility with two bracelet choices. You can either get the classic Oyster bracelet which is a durable and timeless design, or the more modern Oysterflex bracelet. The Oysterflex bracelet pairs comfort with cutting-edge technology and is a high-performance elastomer strap that has a hidden metal blade inside. The blade gives it the strength of a metal bracelet with the comfort of a rubber strap.
The Oysterflex also has a longitudinal cushion system to keep the watch stable on your wrist, even during active use. To add even more versatility, the Glidelock extension system lets you adjust the bracelet without needing tools.
The rustic Submariner watch sticks to a single, trusted option: the Oyster bracelet made from Oyster Steel. Since this Rolex proprietary steel promises impressive sturdiness and corrosion resistance, it’s ideal for divers who need a rugged watch for everyday use. Like the Yacht-Master, the Submariner also comes with the Glidelock clasp for hassle-free micro-adjustments to the bracelet length. Notably, the Triplock winding crown on the Sub adds another security layer so it stays water-resistant.
The Rolex Yacht-Master has a higher starting price point than the Submariner. The Rolesium model, the most affordable YM watch, begins at approximately $15000. If you’re eyeing models made with Everose gold or gem-set designs, prices range from $27,000 to over $50,000.
The Yacht-Master retains its value, but its appreciation rate is slower than the Submariner because its demand in the secondary market isn’t as strong.
However, certain Yacht-Master models with exclusive dials or limited production runs appreciate like all other Rollies. So, if you prioritize exclusivity, the Yacht-Master offers it, but its investment returns may not match those of the Submariner.
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The starting price of a stainless steel no-date Rolex Submariner is around $10,000, and if you prefer a date model, you’ll be paying at least $14000. Base prices of this watch’s models made with precious metals like white gold can reach upwards of $36,950.
The Submariner often holds its value because of its iconic design and popularity among collectors. In turn, many Sub models have appreciated over time, especially discontinued or limited editions like those with 40mm case size.
Similarly, Submariners from the 1960s and 1970s, for example, have secured whopping increases in auction prices. Such a strong performance in the secondary market makes the Submariner a solid option from the investment potential.
Picking a winner between the Rolex Yacht-Master Vs. Rolex Submariner boils down to what matters most to the wearer.
For instance, if your priority is a blend of luxury and usability, the Yacht-Master is a no-brainer choice. It’s aimed at those who enjoy sailing or spending time on the water but also want wrist candy that transitions to formal settings. Its features, including the Oysterflex bracelet and material options like Everose gold and platinum-steel combo, have unfadable elegance.
But if you need a timepiece with promising investment potential and dependable functionality, the Submariner wins. It was designed for divers, so it stands the test of tough conditions without flinching. On top of that, the Sub has a classic, mess-free design that suits charming personalities.
Both watches are marvels in their own right; whichever one you like, head out to Vlassco, and find the most awesome pieces there.
Host and comedian Ellen DeGeneres proudly wears her 18k Everose Rolex Yacht-Master 40 with a black cerachrom bezel.
Keanu Reeves was spotted wearing a Rolex Submariner at the premiere of John Wick: Chapter 4 in 2023. Additionally, he also gifted customized Rolex Submariners to the stuntmen who worked with him on the movie.
Yes, you can swim while wearing a Rolex Yacht-Master, since it’s waterproof to a depth of 100 meters. However, you can’t go diving with it; for that, you need a Rolex Submariner.
