Rolex Submariner 14060M 'Long Good F' Dial

Rolex Datejust Reference 1600

The Datejust reference 1600 represents a stainless steel iteration within Rolex's date-displaying collection, offered with a black dial configuration. This 36mm reference was produced from 1969 to 1977, positioning it within the brand's automatic watch lineup of that period.

The 1600 features a 36mm stainless steel case fitted with a smooth bezel and acrylic crystal. Water resistance extends to 100 meters. The watch houses the caliber 1570 automatic movement, providing 48 hours of power reserve. The black dial is paired with a Jubilee bracelet.

This reference appeals to collectors seeking a mid-1970s Datejust in stainless steel with the classic 36mm case size. The black dial variant offers an alternative to other color configurations within the 1600 reference range. The smooth bezel and Jubilee bracelet combination provides a specific aesthetic within the broader Datejust collection of this production period.

The Explorer II reference 16570 represents a significant evolution within the Explorer II line, succeeding the 16550 and introducing updated aesthetics and technical refinements. It maintained the core utility of a robust tool watch designed for explorers and those who operate in environments where distinguishing day from night is challenging, thanks to its 24-hour hand and fixed bezel. This reference is often considered a modern classic, bridging the gap between earlier vintage models and contemporary Rolex offerings.

This reference features a 40mm stainless steel case, housing either the Caliber 3185 or later the Caliber 3186 automatic movement, providing a power reserve of approximately 48 hours. It is fitted with a sapphire crystal, enhancing durability and scratch resistance compared to earlier acrylic crystals. The watch offers a water resistance of 100 meters, suitable for everyday wear and light water activities, and is paired with a fixed stainless steel bezel engraved with 24-hour markers.

Appealing to collectors who value a blend of functionality and understated design, the 16570 is available with either a black or white dial, the latter often referred to as the "Polar" dial. Its production run saw the transition between different calibers, which can be a point of interest for enthusiasts. The reference is a practical choice for those seeking a GMT complication in a durable and recognizable form factor, without the rotating bezel found on other GMT models.

The Sea-Dweller reference 16600 represents a significant evolution within Rolex's professional dive watch collection, succeeding the reference 16660. It maintained the robust engineering principles of its predecessors while incorporating updated materials and manufacturing techniques. This reference is distinguished by its helium escape valve, a feature essential for saturation divers, allowing trapped gases to escape during decompression without damaging the crystal. It is a tool watch designed for extreme underwater environments, positioned above the Submariner in terms of water resistance and specialized features.

This reference features a 40 mm stainless steel case, providing a substantial yet wearable presence. It is equipped with the self-winding caliber 3135, a chronometer-certified movement known for its reliability and precision, offering a power reserve of approximately 48 hours. The watch utilizes a sapphire crystal, contributing to its enhanced durability and scratch resistance. Its construction ensures a water resistance rating suitable for professional diving applications.

For collectors, the 16600 is notable as the last Sea-Dweller reference to feature a 40mm case and an aluminum bezel insert before the introduction of ceramic bezels and larger case sizes. It appeals to enthusiasts seeking a modern classic with traditional proportions and a robust, purpose-built design. The consistent black dial and steel bracelet across its production run underscore its functional aesthetic.

The Rolex Submariner reference 14060M represents a transitional period for the non-date Submariner line, succeeding the 14060 and preceding the ceramic bezel 114060. This reference maintained the classic aesthetic of its predecessors while incorporating updated technical specifications, making it a desirable piece for collectors who appreciate the traditional Submariner profile without the cyclops date magnifier. It is distinguished by its two lines of text on the dial, later evolving to four lines with the addition of chronometer certification.

This reference features a 40 mm stainless steel case, housing the automatic caliber 3130. The movement provides a power reserve of approximately 48 hours. A sapphire crystal protects the black dial, and the watch is water-resistant to 300 meters. The unidirectional rotating bezel is fitted with an aluminum insert, characteristic of Rolex sports watches from this era.

For collectors, the 14060M is significant as one of the last Submariner models to feature drilled lug holes on some early examples and an aluminum bezel insert, elements that appeal to enthusiasts of earlier Rolex designs. Its production run saw minor variations, particularly in dial text, which are points of interest for detailed study among collectors. It bridges the gap between the vintage and modern eras of the Submariner.