Rolex Submariner Ref. 114060: An Unexpected Appreciation
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Rolex Submariner Ref. 114060: An Unexpected Appreciation

By Kniazukay · May 20, 2020 · 28 replies
Kniazukay
WPS member · Rolex forum
28 replies3544 views1 photos
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Kniazukay, a long-time watch enthusiast, shares his unexpected journey to appreciating the Rolex Submariner ref. 114060, a model he initially overlooked in favor of Sea-Dwellers. His post delves into the subtle details that make this 'obvious choice' a uniquely satisfying daily wearer, highlighting how a fresh perspective can reveal new appreciation for even the most iconic watches. This exploration offers valuable insights for collectors considering the Submariner's enduring appeal.

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I've been into watches since early childhood.  Being born and raised in Europe, everyone had (s)watches.  My first was around 1983/84 ish and it was called the Jellyfish I believe and was totally see through where I could see all the mechanisms that made up the movement. I was immediately fascinated and this of course started my love for watches in general.  Over the years (in terms of Rolex) I've had yachtmaster 40, sea dwellers but never a submariner.  I guess I thought it was so common, why go that route? "It's the obvious choice so let's go a different way" was my mindset at that time.  I always admired them, all sorts from vintage to modern but just never got one for myself... of course until right before the lockdown.  I was lucky to have quickly acquired one directly from the Rolex AD near me.  I was always attracted to the Sea Dwellers more.  They offered something just a liiiiiiittle different if you looked closer.  The extra details that a fellow enthusiast would appreciate but would otherwise go unnoticed.  It was like a little wink to yourself type feeling. However,  I have to say, during this quarantine I have given this piece quite the wrist time and I've come to really enjoy the simplicity of this version very much.  For me, again it comes down to the details. The sharpness of the bezel knurling is like no other (sharpest I've experienced) and I really like the feel of it.  The balance of the look, the wonderful glidelock clasp, the brushing of the steel, I could go on but you get the idea.  I currently have two sea dwellers so to some this may seem like a very redundant purchase but for me it's different enough.  It's definitely thinner in profile which I really like.  Honestly I can't seem to put my finger on what it is but there is something about this 114060 that I just keep coming back to when choosing what to wear these days.  Is it the feel? the comfort? the look? the odd and sometimes hated lug thickness?? I really can't say quite yet.  What I do know, however, is that I really like this simple, popular, almost predictable watch.  I say almost because of the no date dial.  I see now personally why the submariner is what it is, and why it's been so popular for so many years and will probably continue to be. The older I get, the more I truly appreciate simplicity.... and sometimes the obvious choice becomes the unique choice, subjectively.
Here's a fun lume shot as I sit on my couch ready to watch more episodes of Bosch wink (any fan of the show will know what I'm talking about)



About the Rolex Submariner No-Date Ref. 114060

The Rolex Submariner reference 114060 represents a significant evolution of the no-date Submariner line, introduced in 2012. This reference is distinguished by its ceramic bezel insert and the "Maxi Case," which features broader lugs and crown guards compared to previous generations, giving it a more substantial presence on the wrist while retaining the classic 40mm diameter. It succeeded the reference 14060M and brought modern material science and design updates to a beloved tool watch. This model is notable for its clean, symmetrical dial, free of a date window and cyclops lens.

This reference features a 40 mm Oyster case crafted from 904L stainless steel, known for its exceptional corrosion resistance. The case houses the Rolex Caliber 3130, a self-winding mechanical movement entirely developed and manufactured by Rolex, offering a power reserve of approximately 48 hours. The watch is fitted with a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal and is water-resistant to 300 meters (1,000 feet), secured by a Triplock winding crown. The unidirectional rotatable bezel is equipped with a black Cerachrom insert, made from a hard, corrosion-resistant ceramic.

For collectors, the 114060 is appreciated for its blend of traditional Submariner aesthetics with contemporary robustness and materials. It appeals to those who prefer the uncluttered look of a no-date dial and the enhanced durability of a ceramic bezel. Its production run from 2012 to 2020 makes it a relatively modern reference, yet it is now discontinued, having been replaced by the 41mm reference 124060. This reference is often considered a modern classic, bridging the gap between vintage proportions and contemporary Rolex engineering.

Specifications

Caliber
3130
Case
Stainless steel
Diameter
40 mm
Dial
Black
Water Resist.
300m
Crystal
Sapphire

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The Discussion
TE
TeutonicCarFan
May 20, 2020

I enjoy mine too. Just a well constructed, no nonsense watch that you can wear while doing anything. Mine is a steak timer.

MI
MichaelC
May 20, 2020

This watch makes me crave older versions for sure.

PA
patrick_y
May 20, 2020

Thanks for sharing your thoughts and experiences!

OR
orahu
May 20, 2020

I bought a Submariner two years ago and it is one of the best watch decisions I have ever made. The watch is incredibly comfortable and versatile. It has been on my wrist for most of the past 10 weeks while sheltering at home β€” even now with a glass of French red wine, fountain pens at hand, and an old film on TV.

JA
Jay (Eire)
May 20, 2020

Like you, my SD came first. And for similar reasons. I think I still prefer the SD but yet it’s still outnumbered 2:1 by Subs these days.

KN
Kniazukay
May 20, 2020

people called me crazy when the AD called me and said hey I have a submariner with date here for you if you'd like it, I kindly turned it down and said I'll wait for the no date but thank you. I felt someone else should get a chance if they love that date option but I was willing to wait and it worked out because only a few weeks later boom! they called with one

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