Breitling Navitimer vs. Rolex Submariner: Complete buying guide [2026]

The Breitling Navitimer and the Rolex Submariner represent two different pinnacles of luxury watchmaking. The Navitimer is a legendary aviation chronograph, defined by its complex, busy dial and iconic slide rule bezel, while the Submariner is the quintessential dive watch, celebrated for its robust simplicity, timeless design, and unmatched durability. Your choice comes down to a preference for technical, aviation-focused complexity from Breitling or classic, underwater-proof versatility from Rolex.

Here's everything you need to know to decide which of these iconic timepieces is the right one for you.

Breitling Navitimer

The Breitling Navitimer is an icon of aviation history, first introduced in 1952. Instantly recognizable by its circular slide rule bezel designed for pilots to perform crucial in-flight calculations, it's a true "instrument for professionals." The aesthetic is technical, detailed, and unapologetically bold, appealing to those who appreciate mechanical complexity and a watch with a rich heritage in flight.

• What it is: A legendary Swiss pilot's chronograph famous for its distinctive slide rule bezel.
• Key features: Circular slide rule for aeronautical calculations, chronograph functionality (stopwatch), tachymeter scale, and a COSC-certified chronometer movement for exceptional accuracy.
• Price: Typically ranges from $7,000 to $9,000 for standard steel models.
• Materials/Construction: Built with high-grade stainless steel cases, sapphire crystal, and often feature display case backs to view the intricate movement.
• Sizing/Fit: Tends to have larger case sizes, commonly from 43mm to 46mm, giving it a commanding presence on the wrist that suits those who prefer a more substantial watch.
• Pros: Unique and iconic design with real aviation history, highly complex and functional mechanical movement, strong value for the level of complication, and a variety of dial colors and strap/bracelet options.
• Cons: The busy dial can be difficult for some to read quickly, its water resistance is limited (typically 30m), making it unsuitable for swimming, and its large size may not fit smaller wrists comfortably. Resale value is generally not as strong as Rolex.

This watch is perfect for aviation enthusiasts, engineers, and anyone who values a visually complex timepiece with a deep and authentic history.

Shop this product: breitling.com/us-en/watches/navitimer/

Rolex Submariner

The Rolex Submariner is arguably the most famous luxury watch in the world. Originally designed in 1953 as a tool for divers, it set the standard for waterproof wristwatches. Its design is clean, timeless, and incredibly versatile, making it just as suitable for a boardroom as it is for 300 meters below the sea. The Submariner is a symbol of durability, precision, and enduring style.

• What it is: The archetypal luxury dive watch known for its robust construction, superior water resistance, and classic styling.
• Key features: Water resistance up to 300 meters (1,000 feet), a unidirectional rotating 60-minute bezel for tracking dive times, highly legible Chromalight display with long-lasting blue luminescence, and a supremely accurate in-house movement.
• Price: Starts at a retail price of approximately $9,000, though market prices are often significantly higher due to intense demand.
• Materials/Construction: Features a corrosion-resistant case made from Rolex's proprietary Oystersteel (a 904L steel alloy), a scratch-proof Cerachrom ceramic bezel, and a robust Oyster bracelet with a Glidelock extension system for easy adjustments.
• Sizing/Fit: The modern Submariner features a 41mm case that is widely considered a versatile size, fitting comfortably on a majority of wrists.
• Pros: Iconic and timeless design, exceptional durability and reliability, excellent for all occasions, and one of the best watches for holding or increasing its value over time.
• Cons: Extremely high demand results in long waitlists at authorized dealers and high premiums on the secondary market. The classic design, while loved, can feel very common.

This is the ideal watch for collectors, those seeking a versatile "one-watch collection," and buyers who prioritize long-term value and understated elegance.

Shop this product: www.rolex.com/en-us/watches/submariner

Breitling Navitimer vs. Rolex Submariner Comparison

Style &, Aesthetic

The stylistic differences here could not be more clear. The Breitling Navitimer is defined by its complexity. Its dial is an intricate array of numbers, scales, and sub-dials, serving its purpose as a wrist-worn navigational computer. This "instrument" aesthetic gives it a bold, technical, and slightly vintage feel that stands out in a crowd.

In contrast, the Rolex Submariner practices a philosophy of "less is more." Its design is clean, legible, and symmetrical. Rooted in function, its simplicity has become a timeless standard of sport-luxury. It’s elegant enough for formal events but tough enough for daily wear, making its aesthetic one of pure versatility.

Functionality &, Purpose

At their core, these watches were built for two vastly different environments: the sky and the sea. The Navitimer is an aviation chronograph. Its main complication, the slide rule, allows pilots to calculate fuel consumption, rate of descent, and other critical variables. The chronograph function acts as a precise stopwatch.

The Submariner is a tool for divers. Its primary function is measured by its unidirectional bezel, which allows a diver to safely track immersion time. Its impressive 300-meter water resistance, screw-down crown, and highly legible luminous dial are all designed for reliability and safety underwater. While most owners never dive that deep, these features translate into incredible durability for any activity.

Quality &, Materials

Both brands represent the peak of Swiss watchmaking excellence. Breitling uses high-grade materials like 316L stainless steel and ensures its movements are COSC-certified for accuracy. The build quality is robust and designed to last. However, its focus is on the precision of the chronograph movement rather than extreme elemental resistance.

Rolex takes materials and durability to another level. It uses its own proprietary "Oystersteel," a 904L steel alloy that is more resistant to corrosion than the industry standard. Its in-house movements are not only COSC-certified but also undergo Rolex’s own more stringent "Superlative Chronometer" testing. The focus on a hermetically sealed case gives the Submariner a clear edge in ruggedness and water resistance.

Price &, Value

In terms of retail price, the Navitimer often comes in slightly lower than the Submariner. For that price, you get a much more mechanically complex watch - a chronograph with a slide rule is far more intricate to manufacture than a time-and-date dive watch. From a pure watchmaking perspective, the Navitimer presents fantastic value.

However, when it comes to financial value and investment, the Submariner is in a different league. Due to Rolex's brand power and managed scarcity, the Submariner not only holds its value exceptionally well but often sells for significantly more than its retail price on the secondary market. It is widely considered one of the safest bets in the luxury watch world.

Which One Should You Choose?

Both of these watches are incredible choices, but they are built for entirely different wearers.

Choose the Breitling Navitimer if:

• You are passionate about aviation history or are a pilot yourself.
• You appreciate and enjoy mechanically complex "tool" watches.
• You prefer a larger, bolder watch that makes a statement on the wrist.
• You want a legendary timepiece that stands out from the more common luxury models.

Choose the Rolex Submariner if:

• You want a watch that is versatile enough for any occasion, from casual to formal.
• Long-term value retention and financial appreciation are important to you.
• You prioritize durability, reliability, and water resistance above all else.
• You prefer timeless, understated design and want to own a piece of watchmaking royalty.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the main difference between the Navitimer and Submariner?

The main difference is their core function. The Breitling Navitimer is an aviation chronograph designed to help pilots with calculations via its slide rule bezel. The Rolex Submariner is a dive watch designed to track time underwater with its unidirectional timing bezel and 300m water resistance.

Which watch holds its value better?

The Rolex Submariner holds its value significantly better. Due to overwhelming demand and Rolex's brand status, Submariners consistently trade on the secondary market for prices well above their original retail, making them a strong investment piece.

Is the Breitling Navitimer waterproof?

Most modern Navitimer models have a water resistance rating of 30 meters. This means it can withstand splashes but is not suitable for swimming or showering. It is a pilot's watch, not a diver's watch.

Is the Rolex Submariner a good investment?

Historically, the Submariner has often had a high return. Its combination of timeless appeal, brand prestige, and controlled supply has made it a collectible that has steadily appreciated in value over decades.

Which one is more durable for everyday wear?

While both are well-made watches, the Rolex Submariner is generally considered more durable for truly worry-free everyday wear. Its simple construction, superior water resistance, and highly corrosion-resistant steel give it an edge in ruggedness.

How accurate are these watches?

Both the Breitling Navitimer and Rolex Submariner feature movements that are COSC-certified chronometers, meaning they are tested and guaranteed to be accurate within -4 to +6 seconds per day. Rolex also performs its own, stricter internal testing.

Which brand has more prestige?

While Breitling is a highly respected luxury brand with a rich history, Rolex is arguably the most recognized and prestigious watch brand in the world. Its name is synonymous with success and luxury across the globe.

Can I buy a Rolex Submariner at a retail store today?

It is very unlikely. High demand for the Submariner means authorized Rolex dealers have long waiting lists, often reserved for established clients. Most buyers turn to the trusted secondary market, where the watch is readily available but at a significant price premium.