THE ESSENTIALS
MAKE: ROLEX
MODEL: 14060
YEAR: 1991
BOX/PAPERS: NO/NO
CASE DIAMETER: 40MM
CASE MATERIAL: STAINLESS STEEL
BRACELET MATERIAL: STAINLESS STEEL
MOVEMENT: AUTOMATIC
The Rolex Submariner 14060, introduced in 1990, marked the end of the 5513’s 28-year production run and the transition to five-digit Submariner references, ushering in the neo-vintage era. The 14060 brought several key updates: a sapphire crystal, the calibre 3000 movement, and a unidirectional bezel, significantly improving functionality and robustness while retaining the Submariner’s iconic, clean, no-date symmetry.
Over its production life, the 14060 underwent several notable changes, from tritium to Luminova dials, and later, in 1999, to the M (“Modified”) version, which introduced a Super-Luminova dial and the modern calibre 3130 movement. The present example is one of the earlier tritium 14060s, and the star of the show is undoubtedly the tritium on the markers and hands, which has aged to a gorgeous creamy hue. This patina is relatively uncommon on 14060s and recalls the warmth and charm of the four-digit Submariners. The case is in superb condition, having likely been polished no more than once or twice in its life. The original 78360 bracelet shows only minimal stretch and is one link short.
The 14060 is often called “the last of the best.” Why? It’s slim, robust, and still carries that timeless profile—a look that would never truly be repeated once Rolex moved towards the broader proportions of the maxi-case era. It offers everything a modern Submariner does, but with a far lower profile on the wrist. Moreover, unlike most other Rolex sports models of its era, the 14060 retained drilled lugs throughout its production run, making bracelet changes remarkably easy should you wish to fit leather or rubber.
The movement has been freshly serviced and is running perfectly at 0 s/d, with 280° amplitude and a 0.2 ms beat error. Tritium 14060s remain some of our favourite Submariners here at Falco—incredibly handsome watches that never fail to impress on the wrist.