Rolex vs. Tudor, who produces the better watches?
A while ago, I had the dilemma of choosing a new watch.
When buying a watch, there is a lot to consider, and I find that the choice of watch manufacturer is one of the most important factors.
In my research, I came across both Rolex and Tudor. Both are top watch brands that produce beautiful mechanical watches.
Since certain models from Tudor and Rolex have a lot in common, I am asking myself which of the brands would be the better choice.
My research on the topic of Rolex vs Tudor brought some interesting surprises, so I would like to delve into it further.
So let's get started.
Rolex vs. Tudor? - Similarities and Differences
The history of Rolex and Tudor have a long connection that dates back to the 1930s. The Tudor brand, founded in 1926, was fully acquired in 1936 by Rolex founder Hans Wilsdorf.
Hans Wilsdorf's idea was to create a wristwatch that could be sold at a more affordable price than Rolex.
Is your watchknowledge up to date?
Here is our list of must-know watches!
Bet you'll find a watch on it that you've never seen before.
The first Tudor watches were powered by a movement from Rolex, but unlike Rolex watches, they were not equipped with an in-house movement, but rather an ETA movement. This allowed Tudor to keep prices low, which was crucial to the brand's success. (In-house movements are made by the watch manufacturer themselves, ETA is one of the largest external movement manufacturers.)
Of course, Tudor benefited from the know-how of Rolex, which is particularly evident in the final quality of the manufactured watches.
In a way, Tudor has always been in the shadow of Rolex, both in terms of the exclusivity of the materials used and in terms of the quality of the craftsmanship.
In recent years, however, a change has been evident. As Rolex watches become increasingly expensive and exclusive, Tudor is increasingly gaining more room to venture into more exclusive watches without competing with Rolex.
Is your watchknowledge up to date?
Here is our list of must-know watches!
Bet you'll find a watch on it that you've never seen before.
Comparison of watches, what about quality and appearance?
The fact that Tudor comes from the same house as Rolex is also reflected in the similarities of some models.
With such a huge price difference, I do wonder why Tudor is cheaper. Are they simply not as good in terms of quality, or are they cutting corners elsewhere?
When it comes to quality, I must first clarify that the high price of Rolex is not justified by the quality. A watch with comparable quality, such as a Grand Seiko Heritage, can also be sold for half the price.
Given that Tudor was able to benefit from Rolex's know-how, we can assume that the quality of Tudor is impeccable.
Both in terms of the finish of the components (case, dial, etc.) and the quality of the in-house movements introduced in 2015.
Is your watchknowledge up to date?
Here is our list of must-know watches!
Bet you'll find a watch on it that you've never seen before.
Under the microscope, you might find some small differences, but with the naked eye, you won't be able to tell any differences in quality.
In terms of design, we can then notice some fundamental differences between Tudor and Rolex. Tudor watches are overall simpler and less elaborate in design, which is certainly also a reason for the lower price.
What I mean by the difference can be seen particularly nicely by comparing these two GMT watches:
In my conclusion, the simplicity of the design reduces complexity, making the watches cheaper to produce. Combined with less exclusive materials and high quantities, Tudor watches can be sold at comparatively low prices. Additionally, Tudor invests a fraction of the budget that Rolex spends on marketing its watches.
You will find quality in Tudor, but you will have to make compromises in terms of design and brand prestige.
Is your watchknowledge up to date?
Here is our list of must-know watches!
Bet you'll find a watch on it that you've never seen before.
Differences in the performance of Rolex and Tudor
Besides the quality of Rolex watches, the hype around the "Rolex brand" is particularly responsible for the high price.
The reputation of Rolex does lead to inflated prices and a long waiting list on one hand, but on the other hand, it also brings extraordinary value stability and in some cases even considerable value development.
However, the positive value development is not solely determined by the prestige of the brand. Value development is primarily driven by supply and demand. You can find an analysis of the factors that lead to positive value development in our article about the value stability of watches.
Currently, the demand for Rolex watches is so high that depending on the model, it can even be difficult to get on the waiting list. Combined with the limited production of about 1 million watches per year, this creates excellent conditions for a positive value development.
Is your watchknowledge up to date?
Here is our list of must-know watches!
Bet you'll find a watch on it that you've never seen before.
Even if you don't plan to sell your watch later, you should consider what it will be worth later on. If you save one or two thousand euros when purchasing, depending on the model, your watch may be worth several times less after a few years than the more expensive watch at the time.
For example, with certain configurations from the Day-date series, it is almost certain that one can expect an increase in value, which for many is already a reason to buy.
With Tudor, one can only dream of such a positive price development, as it lacks the demand, exclusivity, and prestige. The value development of Tudor will be similar to that of the value development of Grand Seiko.
Whether the value stability is reason enough to pay double or triple is something you'll have to decide for yourself.
If the value of your watch is important to you, you should definitely also check out the used market. When buying a used watch, you can save yourself the loss in value, and if you purchase a refurbished watch, you'll even have a like-new watch.
Is your watchknowledge up to date?
Here is our list of must-know watches!
Bet you'll find a watch on it that you've never seen before.
Conclusion
Although Rolex and Tudor have some things in common, they play in different price ranges.
The fact is, you won't make a mistake with either Tudor or Rolex.
With Tudor, you get a watch with comparable quality to Rolex. If you're a watch enthusiast and primarily interested in the technology and less so in the brand and appreciation in value, a Tudor watch is perfect for you. However, you shouldn't expect to be approached about your watch with a Tudor.
Different is the Rolex, it is suitable for you if you are looking for an exclusive watch. A Rolex is and remains a status symbol that people will approach you about.
In addition to a beautiful watch, you also get an investment with Rolex. Especially if you buy a limited edition watch, you might consider whether you want to sell your watch for a profit in the near future.
We have not only compared Tudor Rolex. Be sure to check out the other Rolex comparisons!
Which watch brand would you choose?
Is your watchknowledge up to date?
Here is our list of must-know watches!
Bet you'll find a watch on it that you've never seen before.
Q&A
Who owns the watch brand Tudor?
Tudor has been owned by Rolex since 1936. Tudor produces more affordable watches for the mass market, but thanks to Rolex's know-how, the watches are still of excellent quality.
How is the appreciation in value of Tudor?
Compared to Rolex, little appreciation in value is expected. With the exception of a few limited models, the supply exceeds demand, which negatively affects the price.
Buy a Rolex or Tudor watch?
With Rolex, you get a status symbol with potential for positive appreciation in value. With Tudor, you get a relatively affordable watch that is of excellent quality, but much less exclusive. Decide for yourself.
What type of movements are installed in Tudor watches?
Until 2015, Tudor used affordable ETA movements. In 2015, Tudor introduced its first in-house movement. Both the ETA movements and the in-house movement are of impeccable quality.
Source cover image: Tudor, updated article
About the author
Maio Rosatzin
My passion began with a Breitling Premier B01. Since then, I've been sharing my fascination for watchmaking here on my blog. Let's dive into this fascinating world together!
