The Submariner's enduring popularity over the years can be largely attributed to the model's consistent evolution throughout production. It still sports the watch's signature Oyster bracelet, big markers, a black dial, and a black bezel. Since Rolex was determined to maintain the essence of the style it invented—which has since grown to be the main inspiration for the entire dive watch genre—any evolution has been subtle.
 
As a significant departure from the previous four-digit vintage era, the ref. 14060, which debuted in the 1980s, signaled the start of the next generation of the iconic no-date Submariner and is widely recognized as one of the first modern Rolex Submariner references. The 40mm by 12mm diver, which has Rolex's newest case design and an enhanced water resistance of 300 meters (up from 200 meters), demonstrated once more why the Crown has long led the market in fusing iconic design with steady advancements in technology.
 
The dial features a very readable non-date diver configuration made by Rolex, with big applied hour markers, a Mercedes handset that is full of lume material, and a deep black dial that contrasts with everything. The ref. 14060 Submariner spans the transition at the Crown from tritium luminous material to LumiNova, as it was offered from 1988 through the 2000s. The hands, hour markers, and numerals on early examples will all remain a stark white after about 1997, but later examples will patina like a vintage watch.
 
Inside, the Rolex caliber 3000 for older models and the caliber 3130 for later editions are the highly dependable automatic chronometer movements that are widely utilized by the brand in their 14060 models. The watch is fastened to the wrist with a stainless steel Oyster bracelet that has a matching safety clasp to prevent accidental opening. The caliber is shielded by a solid case back that contributes to the watch's water resistance to 300 meters (1,000 feet).
 
To conclude: The 5 digit Rolex Submariner with the reference 14060M is the best of both worlds. Cool like the 4 digit subs and as wearable as an everyday driver like its 6 digit counterpart. Timeless design, 40mm, steel case, movement robust and reliable like a tractor, no fuzz finishing and produced by on of the most - or lets say the most - powerful brands in the watch industry. The Rolex Submariner 14060M has it all!