Breitling Navitimer Cosmonaute vs Rolex Submariner 124060

SpecificationBreitling Navitimer CosmonauteRolex Submariner 124060
BrandBreitlingRolex
CollectionNavitimerSubmariner
ReferenceB12019171B1P1124060
CategoryChronographDive
Movement TypeManualAutomatic
CaliberBreitling B12Rolex 3230
Power Reserve70h70h
Frequency28,800 vph28,800 vph
Case Diameter41.0mm41.0mm
Case Thickness13.6mm11.4mm
Case MaterialStainless SteelOystersteel (904L Stainless Steel)
CrystalSapphire with anti-reflective coatingSapphire
Water Resistance30m / 98ft300m / 984ft
Weight85g150g
MSRP$8,950$9,100
Market Price$7,500$12,500

In-Depth Comparison

The Breitling Navitimer Cosmonaute and the Rolex Submariner 124060 represent two compelling options in the luxury watch market. Both timepieces have earned devoted followings among collectors and enthusiasts, but they approach horology from distinctly different perspectives. Let's break down how these two watches compare across the key dimensions that matter most to buyers.

Heritage And Brand Prestige

Breitling and Rolex are both highly respected names in watchmaking. Both watches hail from Switzerland, benefiting from the region's deep horological tradition. This particular Navitimer reference was introduced in 2022, while this Submariner reference debuted in 2020. The Breitling Navitimer Cosmonaute is the newer release, potentially featuring more modern technology and finishing.

Movement And Mechanics

At the heart of the Breitling Navitimer Cosmonaute beats the Breitling B12 caliber offering a 70-hour power reserve running at 28,800 vph with 46 jewels. The Rolex Submariner 124060 is powered by the Rolex 3230 with a 70-hour power reserve operating at 28,800 vph featuring 31 jewels. Both watches offer identical power reserves, making them equally practical for daily rotation.

Dimensions And Wearability

The Breitling Navitimer Cosmonaute features a 41.0mm case at 13.6mm thick with a 48.0mm lug-to-lug measurement, crafted in Stainless Steel. The Rolex Submariner 124060 comes in at 41.0mm and 11.4mm thick with 48.0mm lug-to-lug, constructed from Oystersteel (904L Stainless Steel). Both watches are virtually identical in diameter, so wrist presence will be comparable. At 85g, the Breitling Navitimer Cosmonaute is the lighter of the two.

Materials And Construction

The Breitling Navitimer Cosmonaute uses a Sapphire with anti-reflective coating crystal paired with a Bidirectional rotating, slide rule bezel, while the Rolex Submariner 124060 features Sapphire crystal with a Unidirectional rotating, Cerachrom ceramic insert bezel. On the wrist, the Breitling Navitimer Cosmonaute comes on a Brown alligator leather strap with Folding clasp, while the Rolex Submariner 124060 is fitted with Oyster bracelet with Oysterlock clasp featuring Oysterlock folding clasp with Glidelock extension.

Water Resistance And Capability

The Breitling Navitimer Cosmonaute is rated to 30m / 98ft and the Rolex Submariner 124060 to 300m / 984ft. For water sports and diving, the Rolex Submariner 124060 provides superior depth capability.

Pricing And Value

At retail, the Breitling Navitimer Cosmonaute lists for $8,950 compared to $9,100 for the Rolex Submariner 124060. On the secondary market, the Breitling Navitimer Cosmonaute trades around $7,500 while the Rolex Submariner 124060 commands approximately $12,500. The Rolex Submariner 124060 carries a 37% market premium.

The Verdict

Choosing between the Breitling Navitimer Cosmonaute and the Rolex Submariner 124060 ultimately comes down to personal priorities. For diving and water sports, the Rolex Submariner 124060 is the stronger choice. as an investment, the Rolex Submariner 124060 shows strong value retention. Both watches are exceptional timepieces that will serve their owner well for generations. We recommend trying both on the wrist at an authorized dealer before making your final decision, as comfort and emotional connection are ultimately just as important as specifications.