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Rolex Datejust 36 "Wimbledon" vs Rolex Explorer 40
Two timepieces compared — $10,000–$25,000 vs $10,000–$25,000
Quick Verdict
The Rolex Datejust 36 "Wimbledon" ($10,000–$25,000) and Rolex Explorer 40 ($10,000–$25,000) are closely matched timepieces at similar price points. The Datejust 36 "Wimbledon" emphasizes Rolex In-House Automatic, Superlative Chronometer (-2/+2 sec/day) engineering while the Explorer 40 focuses on Swiss Made craftsmanship.
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Specifications Compared
| Feature | Rolex Datejust 36 "Wimbledon" | Rolex Explorer 40 |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $10,000–$25,000 | $10,000–$25,000 |
| Case Size | 36mm | 40mm |
| Movement | Automatic Caliber 3235 | Automatic Caliber 3230 |
| Caliber Type | Rolex In-House Automatic, Superlative Chronometer (-2/+2 sec/day) | Rolex In-House Automatic, Superlative Chronometer (-2/+2 sec/day) |
| Power Reserve | 70 Hours | 70 Hours |
| Water Resistance | 100m (10 ATM) | 100m (10 ATM) |
| Crystal | Sapphire Crystal with Cyclops | Sapphire Crystal |
| Case Material | Oystersteel | Oystersteel |
| Origin | Swiss Made | Swiss Made |
Category-by-Category Analysis
Design & Aesthetics
Rolex's design language vs Rolex's approach
The Rolex Datejust 36 "Wimbledon" features a Oystersteel case at 36mm with Sapphire Crystal with Cyclops protection. The Rolex Explorer 40 offers Oystersteel construction at 40mm with Sapphire Crystal. Both represent their brand's distinct design philosophy and heritage.
Movement & Performance
Automatic Caliber 3235 vs Automatic Caliber 3230
The Datejust 36 "Wimbledon" runs the Automatic Caliber 3235 (Rolex In-House Automatic, Superlative Chronometer (-2/+2 sec/day), 70 Hours power reserve) at standard frequency. The Explorer 40 uses the Automatic Caliber 3230 (Rolex In-House Automatic, Superlative Chronometer (-2/+2 sec/day), 70 Hours reserve) at standard. Power reserves are closely matched.
Wearability & Fit
36mm vs 40mm — different wrist presence
At 36mm, the Datejust 36 "Wimbledon" wears more compactly on smaller wrists compared to the Explorer 40 at 40mm. Water resistance differs: 100m (10 ATM) vs 100m (10 ATM).
Value & Cost of Ownership
Same tier — different value propositions
The Rolex Datejust 36 "Wimbledon" sits at $10,000–$25,000 and the Rolex Explorer 40 at $10,000–$25,000. On the specs that outlast any price: the Datejust 36 "Wimbledon" uses Sapphire Crystal with Cyclops with 70 Hours, against Sapphire Crystal and 70 Hours on the Explorer 40. Service intervals are typically 5-7 years for both.
Water Resistance
100m (10 ATM) vs 100m (10 ATM)
The Datejust 36 "Wimbledon" is rated to 100m (10 ATM) while the Explorer 40 handles 100m (10 ATM). Both offer identical water resistance ratings.
Our Verdict
Rolex
Datejust 36 "Wimbledon"
Choose the Rolex Datejust 36 "Wimbledon" if you prioritize Rolex In-House Automatic, Superlative Chronometer (-2/+2 sec/day) engineering, Swiss Made craftsmanship, and 100m (10 ATM) water resistance. At $10,000–$25,000, it delivers Automatic Caliber 3235 with 70 Hours power reserve.
Check Price on AmazonRolex
Explorer 40
Choose the Rolex Explorer 40 if you value Rolex In-House Automatic, Superlative Chronometer (-2/+2 sec/day) technology, Swiss Made heritage, and 40mm proportions. At $10,000–$25,000, the Automatic Caliber 3230 with 70 Hours power reserve makes it a compelling choice.
Check Price on AmazonThe Bottom Line
The Rolex Datejust 36 "Wimbledon" and Rolex Explorer 40 represent two distinct approaches to the timepiece category — the Rolex bringing Swiss Made tradition while Rolex delivers Swiss Made engineering.
Frequently Asked Questions
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How This Page Was Made
Our comparisons are generated from a hand-maintained specification database and reviewed under our editorial standards. We use AI tools to assemble pages from that data. We don’t invent specs: every number traces back to the database, and when we correct an entry, the fix is applied site-wide. As an Amazon Associate, The Horologist earns from qualifying purchases.