
Rolex
Day-Date 40
Ref. 228238
New Price
$38k–$45k
Pre-owned: $35k–$55k
Comparing the Rolex Day-Date 40 ($38k–$45k, 100m WR, 40mm) against the Rolex Yacht-Master 40 ($11k–$12k, 100m WR, 40mm) — specs, movement, community votes, and an expert verdict below. The Rolex Yacht-Master 40 is the more affordable option by $27k.
Complete head-to-head comparison

Rolex
Ref. 228238
New Price
$38k–$45k
Pre-owned: $35k–$55k

Rolex
Ref. 126622
New Price
$11k–$12k
Pre-owned: $13k–$17k
Explore Brand
All Rolex watches, comparisons, and guides in one place
Visit Rolex Pillar Page →Explore Brand
All Rolex watches, comparisons, and guides in one place
Visit Rolex Pillar Page →Rolex Yacht-Master 40 is the value winner at $11k–$12k — over 50% cheaper than the Rolex Day-Date 40 ($38k–$45k).
Pros
Cons
Pros
Cons
Both are excellent watches with different strengths. The Rolex Day-Date 40 offers comparable sizing and costs more new. The Rolex Yacht-Master 40 excels in overall construction. The best choice depends on your wrist size, budget, and preferred aesthetic.
The Rolex Day-Date 40 retails for $38k–$45k, while the Rolex Yacht-Master 40 is priced at $11k–$12k. Pre-owned, expect $35k–$55k and $13k–$17k respectively. Actual secondary market prices vary based on condition and demand.
The Rolex Day-Date 40 has a 40mm case diameter with 12.4mm thickness, while the Rolex Yacht-Master 40 measures 40mm × 12.5mm. Both have lug-to-lug measurements of 47mm and 47mm respectively. Consider your wrist size and wear style when deciding.
The Rolex Day-Date 40 is water-resistant to 100m, while the Rolex Yacht-Master 40 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 Rolex Day-Date 40 uses a automatic Cal. 3255 with 70 hours power reserve. The Rolex Yacht-Master 40 features a automatic Cal. 3235 with 70 hours power reserve. Both offer traditional mechanical craftsmanship.
Rolex and Rolex both command strong secondary markets. Pre-owned pricing shows an estimated resale value of $35k–$55k for the Day-Date 40 and $13k–$17k for the Yacht-Master 40. 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.
Explore Brand →
Rolex's sister brand, delivering in-house movements at 30–60% lower retail prices than its parent.
Explore Brand →
Motorsport's official timekeeper for over 50 years — TAG Heuer has timed Formula 1, Le Mans, and the Monaco Grand Prix.
Explore Brand →
Invented the quartz movement (1969), the kinetic movement (1988), and the spring drive (1999) — more watch innovations than any other single company.
Explore Brand →
Other watches worth considering in this category
Other popular comparisons featuring Rolex or Rolex
COMPARISON
Audemars Piguet Royal Oak 15500ST
vs
Rolex Day-Date 40
Price Range
Audemars Piguet
$24k–$26k
Rolex
$38k–$45k
Compare Now →
COMPARISON
Patek Philippe Nautilus 5711
vs
Rolex Yacht-Master 40
Price Range
Patek Philippe
$35k–$38k
Rolex
$11k–$12k
Compare Now →
COMPARISON
Rolex Day-Date 40
vs
Rolex Submariner 41
Price Range
Rolex
$38k–$45k
Rolex
$9k–$10k
Compare Now →
COMPARISON
Rolex Day-Date 40
vs
Cartier Santos de Cartier
Price Range
Rolex
$38k–$45k
Cartier
$8k–$8k
Compare Now →