
IWC
Portugieser Automatic
Ref. IW358303
New Price
$7k–$8k
Pre-owned: $6k–$7k
Comparing the IWC Portugieser Automatic ($7k–$8k, 30m WR, 40mm) against the Rolex Datejust 36 ($7k–$8k, 100m WR, 36mm) — specs, movement, community votes, and an expert verdict below. The Rolex Datejust 36 is the more affordable option by $400.
Our Verdict
Too Close to Call
Both the IWC Portugieser Automatic and Rolex Datejust 36 are excellent choices — the winner depends on your priorities, budget, and style preference.
Complete head-to-head comparison

IWC
Ref. IW358303
New Price
$7k–$8k
Pre-owned: $6k–$7k

Rolex
Ref. 126200
New Price
$7k–$8k
Pre-owned: $7k–$10k
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All Rolex watches, comparisons, and guides in one place
Visit Rolex Pillar Page →Both sit in a similar price range: IWC Portugieser Automatic at $7k–$8k vs Rolex Datejust 36 at $7k–$8k — choose based on use case and style preference. Rolex Datejust 36 edges ahead on water resistance: 100m vs 30m. Case size: IWC Portugieser Automatic at 40mm suits larger wrists; Rolex Datejust 36 at 36mm is the more compact option.
Pros
Cons
Pros
Both are excellent watches with different strengths. The IWC Portugieser Automatic offers a larger case and costs more new. The Rolex Datejust 36 excels in water resistance. The best choice depends on your wrist size, budget, and preferred aesthetic.
The IWC Portugieser Automatic retails for $7k–$8k, while the Rolex Datejust 36 is priced at $7k–$8k. Pre-owned, expect $6k–$7k and $7k–$10k respectively. Actual secondary market prices vary based on condition and demand.
The IWC Portugieser Automatic has a 40mm case diameter with 10.8mm thickness, while the Rolex Datejust 36 measures 36mm × 11.9mm. Both have lug-to-lug measurements of 47mm and 44mm respectively. Consider your wrist size and wear style when deciding.
The IWC Portugieser Automatic is water-resistant to 30m, while the Rolex Datejust 36 offers 100m. Both are suitable for swimming and snorkeling at their respective depths. For professional diving, verify the rating exceeds 300m and includes a screw-down crown.
The IWC Portugieser Automatic uses a automatic Cal. 82100 with 60 hours power reserve. The Rolex Datejust 36 features a automatic Cal. 3235 with 70 hours power reserve. Both offer traditional mechanical craftsmanship.
IWC and Rolex both command strong secondary markets. Pre-owned pricing shows an estimated resale value of $6k–$7k for the Portugieser Automatic and $7k–$10k for the Datejust 36. Condition, service history, and box/papers significantly impact resale value for both models.
The only watch worn on the Moon. The Speedmaster was NASA-qualified in 1965 and accompanied every Apollo mission.
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Rolex's sister brand, delivering in-house movements at 30–60% lower retail prices than its parent.
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Motorsport's official timekeeper for over 50 years — TAG Heuer has timed Formula 1, Le Mans, and the Monaco Grand Prix.
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Invented the quartz movement (1969), the kinetic movement (1988), and the spring drive (1999) — more watch innovations than any other single company.
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