The Rolex Submariner and GMT Master are two of the most iconic watches in the world. Both watches are known for their durability, style, and accuracy. The Submariner is a dive watch that was first introduced in 1954. The GMT Master is a pilot’s watch that was first introduced in 1955. Both watches are still in production today and are highly sought after by collectors.
One of the most contentious issues surrounding these two watches is why the Submariner is more expensive than the GMT. In this blog post, we’ll attempt to figure out what’s behind the pricing difference between watches like the Submariner and the GMT.
Is it true that submarines are more expensive than GMTs?
It’s no secret that Rolex makes some of the most expensive watches in the world. But are their submarines more expensive than their GMTs? Let’s take a closer look.
Rolex submarines are, on average, more expensive than Rolex GMTs. This is not because submarines are made with more expensive materials or for the more complicated movements since both of them have similar materials and features.
Prices can vary depending on where you buy your watch and what kind of deals you can find. Plus, the condition of the watch when looking for a secondhand one. But overall, Rolex submarines tend to cost more than Rolexes GMTs. So if you’re looking to save money, you might want to stick with the GMT.
Why is Submariner more expensive than GMT?
Before diving into the root reason for the price difference between the two luxury watches, let’s agree on something.
Even though they are from different product lines, there aren’t many distinctions. They have the same case size and design style and are usually priced similarly. As a result, declaring that one watch is superior to another or that one has more features than the other is difficult.
As a result, the price difference is not due to features, functionality, or design but rather to other factors, which we will discuss in the following lines:
Demand
Generally, a thing is worth whatever someone is willing to pay. The price difference between Submariner vs. GMT Master ii is more obvious in the aftermarket than in the list price.
Because of its popularity, people are ready to pay more for a Submariner than a GMT. That’s pretty much it; we wouldn’t go on to defend the price difference based on variations in the watches since, let’s face it, Rolex’s cost difference between these two watches is minimal in comparison to their profit margins.
Demand is the first reason behind the price difference; most people don’t know GMTs unless they’re pilots or travelers. Submariners are deeply embedded in culture, while diving watches are far more culturally significant and hence more in demand.
Culture
Another viewpoint on the price difference between the Submariner and GMT is tied to the culture behind each watch.
The Rolex Submariner is a classic watch designed for athletes. Even if a guy does not dive or engage in any physical activity, the Submariner is a must-have Rolex for every man, thanks in part to the men who wear it, such as James Bond in the novels and early Sean Connery films.
Plus, it has a lot to do with the fact that men conceive of themselves as explorers, able to dive, swim, or participate in sports without worrying about their watch.
GMT, on the other hand, is less popular because it caters to travelers rather than sports enthusiasts. Traveling business people will like the second time given by the 24-hour hand and the rotating bezel. However, most guys who live mostly or fully in one time zone will not enjoy this function. Furthermore, the usual Blue and Red bezel is less stoic than the ordinary Submariner’s black bezel. The GMT Master II does have a black bezel and a wide link bracelet that looks very similar to the Submariner Date.
Culture and demand explain why Submariner is more expensive than GMT. The Submariner has been around for longer, and its association with James Bond has made it an iconic watch. The GMT, on the other hand, is a newer model that doesn’t have the same level of name recognition. As a result, the Submariner commands a higher price tag.
Read: Invicta Pro Diver vs. Rolex Submariner: Full Comparison
Should you buy Submariner or GMT?
The Submariner and GMT are two of the most popular watches on the market, and for a good reason. Both are incredibly well-made and stylish watches that will last a lifetime. So, which one should you buy?
There is no easy answer, as it depends on your personal preferences. If you want a watch that is purely functional and will go with any outfit, the Submariner is a great choice. If you want a slightly more dressy watch with a unique feature (the ability to track two time zones), then GMT is the way to go.
Ultimately, it comes down to what you value in a watch. Do you want something classic and timeless or something that is slightly more flashy? No matter your choice, you can’t go wrong with either the Submariner or GMT.
To learn more about those two icons, you may read our previous post, Submariner vs. GMT Master, to know the similarities and differences.
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