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Rolex vs Omega: The Complete Comparison Guide

Rolex and Omega are the two most recognized Swiss luxury watch brands in the world. Rolex dominates in brand prestige and resale value; Omega leads in movement technology and value for money. This guide provides an honest, side-by-side comparison to help you decide which brand — and which specific model — is right for you.

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Rolex vs Omega: Side-by-Side Comparison

A comprehensive breakdown of how Rolex and Omega compare across every important category for watch buyers.

CategoryRolexOmega
Founded1905 (London, later Geneva)1848 (La Chaux-de-Fonds)
Parent CompanyHans Wilsdorf Foundation (independent)Swatch Group
Movement TypeIn-house (Caliber 3200/3100 series)In-house co-axial (Caliber 8800/9900 series)
Chronometer Cert.Superlative Chronometer (±2 sec/day)Master Chronometer (0/+5 sec/day, 15,000 gauss)
Magnetic Resistance1,000 gauss (Milgauss: higher)15,000 gauss (all Master Chronometer models)
Entry Price (Retail)~$5,800 (Oyster Perpetual)~$5,100 (Seamaster Aqua Terra)
Entry Price (Pre-owned)~$5,000 (Air King, vintage)~$2,000 (Seamaster, pre-owned)
Resale ValueExcellent (80-120% of retail)Moderate (50-70% of retail)
Service Interval~10 years recommended~8 years (co-axial extends intervals)
Service Cost$800-$1,200 (complete service)$500-$800 (complete service)
Water Resistance (Dive)300m (Submariner), 1,220m (Sea-Dweller)300m (Seamaster), 600m (Planet Ocean)
Materials904L Oystersteel, Everose gold, Cerachrom316L steel, Sedna gold, Canopus gold, ceramic
Brand RecognitionHighest in watchmaking — universal status symbolStrong — James Bond, NASA, Olympics
Wait List1-5+ years for popular sport modelsGenerally available at retail

Model-to-Model Matchups: eBay Prices Compared

How specific Rolex and Omega models compare in each category. All prices reflect pre-owned eBay market values.

Dive Watch

Rolex

Submariner Date

126610LN

$10,000 – $18,000

Omega

Seamaster 300M

210.30.42

$3,500 – $5,000

Chronograph

Rolex

Daytona

126500LN

$25,000 – $40,000

Omega

Speedmaster Professional

310.30.42

$4,000 – $6,000

GMT / Travel

Rolex

GMT-Master II "Pepsi"

126710BLRO

$18,000 – $24,000

Omega

Seamaster Aqua Terra GMT

220.10.43

$4,000 – $6,000

Dress Watch

Rolex

Datejust 41

126334

$8,000 – $14,000

Omega

De Ville Prestige

424.10.40

$2,000 – $3,500

Entry-Level

Rolex

Oyster Perpetual 36

126000

$5,500 – $8,000

Omega

Aqua Terra 38mm

220.10.38

$3,000 – $4,500

When to Choose Rolex vs Omega

Choose Rolex If You Want...

  • Maximum brand recognition and status signaling
  • Best possible resale value (80-120% of retail)
  • A watch that functions as a store of value
  • Proven, conservative design that never changes
  • The Submariner, Daytona, or GMT-Master specifically
  • A brand with universal recognition worldwide

Choose Omega If You Want...

  • Superior movement technology (co-axial, Master Chronometer)
  • More watch for your money (40-50% less than comparable Rolex)
  • 15,000-gauss magnetic resistance on all models
  • The Speedmaster (only watch worn on the Moon)
  • Easier availability — no wait lists at authorized dealers
  • Lower servicing costs ($500-$800 vs $800-$1,200)

Compare Prices on AuctionMapper

Search live eBay listings for both Rolex and Omega — see real market prices side by side.

Rolex SubmarinerOmega SeamasterOmega SpeedmasterRolex Daytona

Related Guides

Rolex Watches: Complete GuideOmega Watches: Complete GuideHow to Authenticate a RolexRolex Nicknames GuideWatches That Hold ValueBest Watches Under $5,000

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Rolex better than Omega?
Neither brand is objectively 'better' — they serve different priorities. Rolex excels at brand recognition, resale value, and build consistency. Omega offers superior movement technology (Master Chronometer certification, co-axial escapement), better value for money, and more variety in complications. For investment and status, Rolex wins. For horological innovation and value, Omega often wins.
Is Omega as good as Rolex in quality?
In terms of pure watchmaking quality, Omega is on par with or arguably ahead of Rolex. Omega's Master Chronometer certification (tested by METAS to ±0/+5 seconds/day and 15,000 gauss magnetic resistance) is more rigorous than Rolex's Superlative Chronometer standard (±2 seconds/day, 1,000 gauss). Both brands use excellent materials and finishing, but Omega's co-axial escapement reduces friction and extends service intervals.
Does Rolex hold value better than Omega?
Yes, Rolex holds value significantly better than Omega on the secondary market. Most Rolex sport models retain 80-100%+ of their retail price, with some (Submariner, GMT-Master, Daytona) trading above retail. Omega watches typically depreciate 30-50% from retail on the pre-owned market. This means Omega is a better buy second-hand (more watch for the money), while Rolex is better for value retention.
How much cheaper is Omega than Rolex?
On the pre-owned market, Omega is significantly cheaper than Rolex. A pre-owned Omega Seamaster 300M sells for $3,500-$5,000 vs $10,000-$18,000 for a Rolex Submariner. An Omega Speedmaster Professional goes for $4,000-$6,000 vs $25,000-$40,000 for a Rolex Daytona. At retail, the gap is smaller but still significant: Omega's entry models start around $5,000 vs Rolex at $5,800+.

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