Submariner 14060M

[Ed Rooney]

My 14060M Sub Review

It has been about over 2 months since I purchased my Rolex Submariner 14060M, otherwise known to the unwashed masses as the “Sub ND”. I feel that I have knocked it against enough doorknobs to write an intelligent watch review.

The Sub serves potentially two purposes in my collection. It will either be the fanciest, most expensive watch I own, or it will be the “beater” in a more extensive collection of tool watches. I am not a WIS, I don’t appreciate decorated movements, complications or rarity. Much like my home, vehicle and most of my clothing, I prefer a watch for its utilitarian value.

The Sub suits my watch use habits very well. I grew up around the water near Annapolis, MD. More often than not I could be found sailing, swimming, waterskiing or flying with my Dad. Sailing for me was a particularly wet sport, as I owned a small catamaran and was dumped in the Severn River quite often. Many times righting the boat involved taking a deep breath, following the mast down 20+ feet to the bottom and freeing it from the mud. The Sub is a great watch for my lifestyle. I don’t like to have to take it off to jump in the ocean or a pool. That’s how Buzz Aldrin lost his Speedy. The safest place for my watch is on my wrist, therefore the watch needs to be tough enough to go nearly anywhere. While any Rolex Oyster could easily handle this lifestyle, the Sub is the best combo of durability and looks (for me).

One great “Tool Watch” qualification of the 14060M is that it, along with its cousin the Sea-Dweller, is made only in Stainless Steel. Oddly, Rolex manages to polish just the right surfaces to catch the light in a way that one normally sees on chrome. The glint from the top of the coin-edge bezel, case sides and crown grooves make what was a lump of stainless steel shine like a diamond. This makes it one of the few watches with the ability to dress up or down as far as one needs.

Much has been written about the Rolex Oyster bracelet. Rolex has improved it on many of the newer models, but the 14060M retains the old non-SEL standard bracelet. It feels like something from a bad knock-off, but history talks. This bracelet has “been there, done that and bought the T-shirt”. Still, it compares well to most of the other SS bracelets I’ve seen. The ability to take a piece of Scotch-Brite to the brushed surfaces is priceless. Recently I noticed some desk-diver rub marks on the 12 o’clock side of the bracelet. I hit it with some lemon Palmolive and a Scotch-Brite pad and it’s as good as new. Try that with a polished center-link.

The 14060M is often overlooked because of the lack of a date feature. My wife remarked the other day that she uses the date function on her Datejust more than the time. Unfortunately, I’m the guy who has to adjust the date every other month or after two days in the jewelry box. While I wouldn’t mind upgrading to a Sea-Dweller, not having to babysit the date is a plus for me.

For me, the 14060M is the modern version of the classic Submariner. The history behind this watch is amazing. I’m glad to own it and “buyer’s remorse” has never been a factor. Anyone who aspires to own several Rolex models should consider the 14060M as the foundation of their collection.

Ed Rooney
12/29/2007

[Alcan]

Good write up. :thumbsup:

[Welshwatchman]

I agree with all of the sentiments.:thumbsup:

[Teofilo]

Great review Ed.....The Sub ND was my first expensive watch too and it really is a "go anywhere" sort of watch. I know some people dont like the term tool watch, but stuff it....the 14060M is as tool as Rolex gets !

[kcmo]

Nice review Ed! You've got a great classic there! Enjoy it!

[bbqbrew]

I will have one of these some day. Its a classic.
Chris

[Robb]

Great review and beautiful pic!!

[ROGERB]

Well written...a classic is always a classic!
R

[JJ Irani]

Good stuff, Ed.....what a fine looking watch - simple and yet so beautiful!! :thumbsup:

[SPACE-DWELLER]

Very nice review, Ed!

Thanks for sharing your thoughts on this classic Rolex!

[frostie]

Nice review :thumbsup: :cheers:

[boa2]

Terrific review!:thumbsup:

[Lubrifar]

Thanks for sharing a great review! I love to own a 14060M for the same reason; a true no non-sense no BS tough-as-nail tool watch! Happy New Year to you and your 14060M! :cheers:

[AJC]

Much the same thoughts that I had and the big plus was that I found it very comfortable,more so than other Rolex sports models I have owned.

Aaron:cheers:

[rpryan55]

The more I see this damn watch the more I want one. I hate myself.

[666 Bandit]

Ed, that was a great review & I couldn't agree with you more. I got my 14060m in Dec for my 40th birthday & I couldn't be happier. It is accurate to +1 sec / day. It's very light, I have worn it every day since I got it. And it is also very stealthy. Great watch!

[sea-dweller]

Great review. The 14060 was the first Rolex I purchased, in 1994.

[Perdu]

Nice review, that was my first Rolex (with a domed acrylic crystal.) Wish I still had it.

[spaggio]

Hi all guys, first of all sorry for my poor english.
It's a lot of time I follow your forum and finally, last week, I bought my first rolex, a stunning 14060M "cosc".

If you appreciate and/or suggest me to make a new topic here, please tell me!

PS: just to translate the few notes in italian, that's my mini-review:
- it's my first rolex, and the first expensive watch. I'm still quite worried about scratching it and/or making damage, but I feel like really having a "jewel" at my wrist
- the quality I can feel is stunning: 4 days I'm looking closely to it and still I can't find any defect or imperfection
- I love it

I hope you appreciate this.
Greetings to all
ciao
Andrea

[portable75]

I have two on my mind for the next rolli.....exp II or the 14060m ND.

[spaggio]

Hope you like some pics :)

Hi all guys, first of all sorry for my poor english.
It's a lot of time I follow your forum and finally, last week, I bought my first rolex, a stunning 14060M "cosc".

If you appreciate and/or suggest me to make a new topic here, please tell me!

PS: just to translate the few notes in italian, that's my mini-review:
- it's my first rolex, and the first expensive watch. I'm still quite worried about scratching it and/or making damage, but I feel like really having a "jewel" at my wrist
- the quality I can feel is stunning: 4 days I'm looking closely to it and still I can't find any defect or imperfection
- I love it

I hope you appreciate this.
Greetings to all
ciao
Andrea

[ChronoDate]

Nice review. I personally need the date function.

[Teofilo]

Very nice pictures Spaggio.....

[Bama]

Ed, I really enjoyed that review. Nicely done:cheers:

[buz-lh]

Ed, very nice review and a classic Rolex. It is definitely on my list of must haves.

[Texsubmariner]

Nice pics of the COSC version. It may turn out to be rare, but time will tell.

[joieboie]

nice review and an excellent watch...I have the same 14060m and I really like it, not a big date fan

[kobieta]

Just saw one with the inner markings:

http://hotimg14.fotki.com/a/218_102/117_114/SANY9839.jpg (http://hotimg14.fotki.com/p/a/218_102/117_114/SANY9839.jpg)

[tandrup]

Very good review - I agree wholeheartedly with your choice.

[Joey_V]

Great review... to the point! I like the Sub ND, but in the end, the date feature was too much to pass up and I really began to warm up to the cyclops.

[feudallordcult]

great review. to be honest, the sub ND is actually on my list after the polar expII.

[Ed Rooney]

Hope you like some pics :)

Those are wonderful photos of a great watch. I might have a COSC 14060M in my future.

[mike]

Great review and photos guys.:cheers: Couldn't agree more.

http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff286/mike381/6.jpg

The blood line lives.:thumbsup:

http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff286/mike381/17.jpg

[T_T]

:thumbsup:

:rofl::rofl::rofl::rofl:

[Mr.RadioActive]

Enjoyed your pics, and write up. I just bought a later year model of this, and cant wait for it to arrive. Its going to be my "rolex" beater! its a watch Ive wanted for a long time.
Enjoy!

[stevemulholland3]

great write up!!

[rarebear]

Thanks for the review ! I have the 14060M since 2001 and still love it , sometimes I wear my Omgea Speedmaster professional but after a day I miss the Sub and feel happy to put it on again !

The 3130 movement is one of the best Rolex ever made !

[timackerman]

I love reading this review. Every 30 seconds or so I look at my wrist and see the same thing :thumbsup:

[wust588]

Great review, and an all time great watch. I'm lusting after one already. Maybe if I could realise enough cash through my 1665 SD, I could have one to replace it. And be left with money to pay the day to day bills.
I'll have to think about it when it's back from it's service.
John.

[darwin1992]

Totally agree about your reason for having the sub. I own an Explorer II black face. I love this watch and it's a great 'everyday' watch for work and stuff. I travel a lot and am looking to move somewhere where I can swim, surf, sail a lot so I decided today to purchase a Sub non date. To me it's just the right kind of watch to have with me for all occasions. Simple. elegant but rugged enough to do anything with. It's not just a watch. It's a part of the person wearing it!:cheers:

[Hassie]

Yes, it is a great piece and a great review!

[gmtobsessed]

Very nice review! I am totall agree with you Ed. I'm not a big fan of cyclops in watches.

Can anyone please let me know the difference between 14060 and 14060M?
And since when the "M" start produced? or starting with which serial number?

Many thanks guys:clap:

[boa2]

Very nice review! I am totall agree with you Ed. I'm not a big fan of cyclops in watches.

Can anyone please let me know the difference between 14060 and 14060M?
And since when the "M" start produced? or starting with which serial number?

Many thanks guys:clap:
FROM ROLEXFORUMS.NL:

Reference 14060 was introduced in 1989, concurrently with the new Submariner Date 16610, with the new caliber 3000. This watch was produced for 10 years, from 1989 through 1999. It introduced the white gold surrounds to the hour markers, sapphire crystal, and new fast-beat 28,800 BPH movement. The difference between the caliber 3000 as used in the non-date reference 14060 versus the caliber 3135 used in the 16610 Submariner Date is, obviously the lack of date complication and the absence of C.O.S.C. certification.

Finally, the reference 14060M, marks the last meaningful upgrade to the Submariner line. The 14060M was introduced to replace the 14060. The meaningful difference being an improved caliber 3130, which features a balance bridge for increased shock protection and improved operating rate (i.e.: better timekeeping) and improved winding system.

[gmtobsessed]

Thank you for the info boa2!:thumbsup:

I also notice in the same 14060M that there are 2 different writing on the dial, I spotted Y series with only "submariner 1000ft=300m" plus newer M series with additional "superlative chrono.......". Is it how you differentiate non COSC and COSC??:thinking:

Thank you again:clap:

[boa2]

Thank you for the info boa2!:thumbsup:

I also notice in the same 14060M that there are 2 different writing on the dial, I spotted Y series with only "submariner 1000ft=300m" plus newer M series with additional "superlative chrono.......". Is it how you differentiate non COSC and COSC??:thinking:

Thank you again:clap:

Precisely. About a year ago, the 14060M became the COSC version. It has the additional writing on the dial, and the ROLEXROLEXROLEX on the rehaut. Those are the only two changes. Mine, for example, was produced just before those two changes appeared.

[gmtobsessed]

Well answered! Thank You boa2!

[boa2]

Well answered! Thank You boa2!

You're quite welcome.

[sambone274]

Great write up. Now I think I need one! Damn you.

[GMTII Owner]

I'm seriously considering the Sub ND as my next Rolex purchase whenever that may be. I like the simplicity and the overall look is awesome. Thanks for sharing your thoughts as it reinforces my feelings on the watch.

John

[hooked]

Why does the 1000ft=300m look different on some of the new subs? Sone of them have more distance between the = sign and the 300 M. If you look at the pis in this thread. The first pics shoe a big difference. My COSC no date sub looks even and doesn't have that great of distance.

[DSJ]

Precisely. About a year ago, the 14060M became the COSC version. It has the additional writing on the dial, and the ROLEXROLEXROLEX on the rehaut. Those are the only two changes. Mine, for example, was produced just before those two changes appeared.

Still love your watch, Boa, and to think I came pretty close to buying it!
http://www.rolexforums.com/showthread.php?t=29726

I'm very content with my Explorer II, though!

[Trurolexer]

Very nice review, Pal!!!:thumbsup:

[rarebear]

Ed ! great story.. I bought my 14060M in 2001 after selling my 6541 Milgauss for a small fortune ! I always wanted the Sub and I feel naked when I wear my other high end watches... after a day I haste to get the sub on my wrist again ... it´s a friend !!!!

[elijahenoch]

I have the same watch. At first i had buyers remorse ,but now i have no regrets at all.
I think this watch is sharp.

[leungbing]

Thanks for sharing!!

[boyet]

I'm new here, reading all this makes me happy that i got one . . . W serial, bought it pre owned. Really love this watch . . .:thumbsup:

[KLM]

It is my only Rolex and my Favorite Rolex! Great review, Thank You!

[ROGERB]

FROM ROLEXFORUMS.NL:

Reference 14060 was introduced in 1989, concurrently with the new Submariner Date 16610, with the new caliber 3000. This watch was produced for 10 years, from 1989 through 1999. It introduced the white gold surrounds to the hour markers, sapphire crystal, and new fast-beat 28,800 BPH movement. The difference between the caliber 3000 as used in the non-date reference 14060 versus the caliber 3135 used in the 16610 Submariner Date is, obviously the lack of date complication and the absence of C.O.S.C. certification.

Finally, the reference 14060M, marks the last meaningful upgrade to the Submariner line. The 14060M was introduced to replace the 14060. The meaningful difference being an improved caliber 3130, which features a balance bridge for increased shock protection and improved operating rate (i.e.: better timekeeping) and improved winding system.
I found this interesting as I have a 89 16610 and my booklet shows the non date as a 5513/0 with a 200m(660 feet) depth rating??
R

[Baha Turker]

Great review Ed.....The Sub ND was my first expensive watch too and it really is a "go anywhere" sort of watch. I know some people dont like the term tool watch, but stuff it....the 14060M is as tool as Rolex gets !

Dear Freind,
Hold on to your Sub no date and Gmt master II,16710 is already discontined
Sub no date is soon going to be
Best Regards
Baha Turker

[SadikP]

Great review & great pics guys.

That's it, I'm getting myself a Sub ND, been putting it off too long

[smonm]

http://i514.photobucket.com/albums/t344/smonm/photo-1.jpg

[5512]

OK i,m the new nong ,whats Sub ND

[Octopus]

ND = No Date.

[5512]

:nut:Thanks mate:dummy:

[motohead]

I just bought one and boy is it a beaut!!! It's my first rol and it definitely won't be my last. I'll post pics soon :)

[Archer]

I bought one yesterday, likewise my first Rolex , what a thrill to own such a beautifully crafted piece of engineering in a functional & understated style.

Happy? :joy: you bet!

Hello everyone BTW!!

Archer

[simoesm]

Hi, I could not agree more with you...:cheers:

[tradernick]

It seems fitting that my first post is in this thread, given that I have registered here as a part of my efforts to acquire my first Rolex, and I can assure you that it will be a 14060M identical to the one on the OP's wrist. There may be other guys on here who would need different watches for different occasions, but I could wear that watch for the next 20 years and I have no doubt it would never go out of style.

Hopefully I'll be bugging a few of you very highly rated seller in the next while, to see if anyone has one of these for me.

[cikez5252]

My 14060M Sub Review

It has been about over 2 months since I purchased my Rolex Submariner 14060M, otherwise known to the unwashed masses as the “Sub ND”. I feel that I have knocked it against enough doorknobs to write an intelligent watch review.

The Sub serves potentially two purposes in my collection. It will either be the fanciest, most expensive watch I own, or it will be the “beater” in a more extensive collection of tool watches. I am not a WIS, I don’t appreciate decorated movements, complications or rarity. Much like my home, vehicle and most of my clothing, I prefer a watch for its utilitarian value.

The Sub suits my watch use habits very well. I grew up around the water near Annapolis, MD. More often than not I could be found sailing, swimming, waterskiing or flying with my Dad. Sailing for me was a particularly wet sport, as I owned a small catamaran and was dumped in the Severn River quite often. Many times righting the boat involved taking a deep breath, following the mast down 20+ feet to the bottom and freeing it from the mud. The Sub is a great watch for my lifestyle. I don’t like to have to take it off to jump in the ocean or a pool. That’s how Buzz Aldrin lost his Speedy. The safest place for my watch is on my wrist, therefore the watch needs to be tough enough to go nearly anywhere. While any Rolex Oyster could easily handle this lifestyle, the Sub is the best combo of durability and looks (for me).

One great “Tool Watch” qualification of the 14060M is that it, along with its cousin the Sea-Dweller, is made only in Stainless Steel. Oddly, Rolex manages to polish just the right surfaces to catch the light in a way that one normally sees on chrome. The glint from the top of the coin-edge bezel, case sides and crown grooves make what was a lump of stainless steel shine like a diamond. This makes it one of the few watches with the ability to dress up or down as far as one needs.

Much has been written about the Rolex Oyster bracelet. Rolex has improved it on many of the newer models, but the 14060M retains the old non-SEL standard bracelet. It feels like something from a bad knock-off, but history talks. This bracelet has “been there, done that and bought the T-shirt”. Still, it compares well to most of the other SS bracelets I’ve seen. The ability to take a piece of Scotch-Brite to the brushed surfaces is priceless. Recently I noticed some desk-diver rub marks on the 12 o’clock side of the bracelet. I hit it with some lemon Palmolive and a Scotch-Brite pad and it’s as good as new. Try that with a polished center-link.

The 14060M is often overlooked because of the lack of a date feature. My wife remarked the other day that she uses the date function on her Datejust more than the time. Unfortunately, I’m the guy who has to adjust the date every other month or after two days in the jewelry box. While I wouldn’t mind upgrading to a Sea-Dweller, not having to babysit the date is a plus for me.

For me, the 14060M is the modern version of the classic Submariner. The history behind this watch is amazing. I’m glad to own it and “buyer’s remorse” has never been a factor. Anyone who aspires to own several Rolex models should consider the 14060M as the foundation of their collection.

Ed Rooney
12/29/2007

Very nice watch and review.

[adr]

thanks for posting this wonderful review. It's has been years since my 1st Rolex.
After a while been in this forum, the effect is up again. :joy:

[gone-rolex-mad]

Good review, and a great watch. Well done.

[hflee55]

Great Review....I'm so tempted to get one now.

BTW, I'm new to the forum....so Hi All!

[cdmackay]

Would someone please tell me...

Other than the new labelling on the dial, is there any difference between the non-COSC certified 14060M, and the new COSC-certified one?

i.e. was anything changed to achieve the certification? They're both using the 3130 movement, right?

Is it just that Rolex never got around to seeking certification, and now they have? Or are there real changes?

thanks much...

[2careless]

Would someone please tell me...

Other than the new labelling on the dial, is there any difference between the non-COSC certified 14060M, and the new COSC-certified one?

i.e. was anything changed to achieve the certification? They're both using the 3130 movement, right?

Is it just that Rolex never got around to seeking certification, and now they have? Or are there real changes?

thanks much...


Welcome to TRF, enjoy your stay here:cheers:
For what is worth, there is absolutely no difference- same reference, same movement.

[adr]

Would someone please tell me...

Other than the new labelling on the dial, is there any difference between the non-COSC certified 14060M, and the new COSC-certified one?

i.e. was anything changed to achieve the certification? They're both using the 3130 movement, right?

Is it just that Rolex never got around to seeking certification, and now they have? Or are there real changes?

thanks much...

Rolex just add 2extra line to the dail & some RRR with serial at 6.
am i right guys ?

movement wise, i believe it's 3130 or might be 3131 the The Parachrome-Blu ! :thinking:

There was a tread before, Tools says need pop up those M/V case to confirm. I read SG Rolex forum, one fella pop up the M serial & found same old silver spring.

There is something mysterious about these 14060M COSC, that's why im here to find out. :thumbsup:

[cdmackay]

thanks much for that...

[alphamale2012]

Worth getting a new 1 or second hand?

[Perdu]

Very thought out review, Ed. It was my first Rolex back in the late 80's. Mine had an acylic crystal and I kick myself for selling it. Again, great review.:thumbsup:

[eric23]

Great Review, I love this watch!

[mauryca]

I wish I could write like this.......Thanks, since I could atleast read it

[bradg]

This watch was my first and I absolutley love it. Great review

[Teofilo]

This classic review has popped back up to the top again.
Great watch and I still wear mine every couple of days.....simple, elegant and classic Rolex.

[Teofilo]

Dear Freind,
Hold on to your Sub no date and Gmt master II,16710 is already discontined
Sub no date is soon going to be
Best Regards
Baha Turker

Thanks for the advice Baha.
The Sub was my first decent watch,purchased for myself on my 40th birthday. So it will never get flipped.
Plus I got married and watched my darling baby get born whilst wearing it..........