Newbie Submariner Appearance Question(s)

[Mundi]

Hello everyone--- lifelong admirer of the Submariner, but complete novice with regards to Submariner facts/details here with a question for you guys.

I've finally decided to buy a Sub but have noticed (or at least think I am noticing) that the new models seem to have a few features that I don't find particularly appealing. They are: Bigger, wider lugs which make the bracelet look too narrow/small (to me anyway)...and give the appearance that the round face/bezel sits atop a rectangular/square base. Also the bezel seems wider to me and the number markers much larger....making the face seem "crowded" to me.

Am I wrong about these details?

Anyway, my questions...should I be looking at older/vintage models? Will the details I've noticed be changing anytime soon?

Thanks for any help, opinions...and please excuse the novice/newbie descriptions.

[bdex75]

You are correct. Look at 5 digit model number submariners with aluminum bezel inserts . Proportions are much better IMHO. You do give up a better bracelet/clasp but to me it is well worth the tradeoff.


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[ddaly12]

Yes, the details you noticed are correct. Buy the model that you like. Do some research. The 5 digit reference numbers are pre-ceramic. So the 16610 might be more appealing for you than the 116610. But the older references lack some of the upgrades of the newer models like updated bracelets and clasps, ceramic bezel insert vs aluminum, older movements. It might be more difficult to find a mint 5 digit reference.

My best advice would be to try to find an opportunity to try on whatever you are thinking about buying. On the wrist, the watch may be much different than in pictures.

I own both 5 and 6 digit references, and love them both for different reasons.

[greggsiam]

As for the bigger wider lugs and smaller bracelet, I came to the same conclusion, but looking at the watch on a person wearing a long sleeve shirt and it seems to mix quite well. I can't explain it other than it might look funny standing alone, but looks much better on the wrist in my opinion.

[Old Expat Beast]

Many people prefer the look and feel of the older, 5 digit models across the range, including aluminium over ceramic inserts, and the lighter bracelets, which will last many decades if looked after.

[Mundi]

Thank you all for the quick and informative replies....you guys nailed it.... the 5 digit references are what I was looking for/had in mind. The 16610 is what I expected to fine in the store.

How old are the 16610s? Is it possible to still find them new/in stores or will I be looking for a pre-owned one?

Thanks again.

[Old Expat Beast]

Originally Posted by Mundi

Thank you all for the quick and informative replies....you guys nailed it.... the 5 digit references are what I was looking for/had in mind. The 16610 is what I expected to fine in the store.

How old are the 16610s? Is it possible to still find them new/in stores or will I be looking for a pre-owned one?

Thanks again.

16610 with date, or 14060m without date. Both out of production for a few years, and overpriced if you do find a "new" unused one. Plenty of pre-owned around though.

[zaydans]

You can find new old stock 5 digit models but you'll pay a premium for those. I bought a mint condition d serial last year from David SW and to be honest if you didn't see the paperwork you wouldn't be able to tell the age. Good luck with your search!!

[swils8610]

Good observations on the Sub. Like others have said look at a 16610 Ref watch OR...get a new Sea Dweller!


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[Mundi]

Hmmm. Why the new Sea Dweller? Does it NOT sport these new features?

[GradyPhilpott]

Originally Posted by Mundi

Hmmm. Why the new Sea Dweller? Does it NOT sport these new features?

The new Sea-Dweller has somewhat slimmer lugs.

It's a thicker watch, though.

Have you checked out the 114060.

Its lugs are no thinner than the 116610, but the lack of a cyclops gives the whole watch a more proportioned look.

Then of course, there's the 5-digit Subs, which I'm especially fond of.

[UnicoJG]

No, you are correct, however, it's a matter of preference.
A modern SubC is built like a tank compared to a five digit Sub.

[Mundi]

Thank you!--- am feeling the 5 digits myself!

[Onikage]

Similar story - Woah that's a GMT and a Submariner lately? Ended up with this < Lightly used '06 model.

[Sublover2166]

I own both and like each for what it is, but must admit the solid link bracelet, CNC machined clasp are big refinements over the old style. The 6 digit references just feel more solid and have made a believer out of myself.

[jimbones43]

Go look at a new sub in person and try one in too, you may be surprised..

[Mundi]

Originally Posted by jimbones43

Go look at a new sub in person and try one in too, you may be surprised..

Good point. Will do.

[crowncollection]

The older models were certainly more aesthetically pleasing and balanced imho.


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[Mundi]

Question---Any idea if Rolex plans on returning to the older streamlined look anytime soon?

[T. Ferguson]

Originally Posted by Mundi

Question---Any idea if Rolex plans on returning to the older streamlined look anytime soon?

No one knows anyone who knows anyone who knows what Rolex has planned. But the answer is probably no.

[Mundi]

Originally Posted by T. Ferguson

No one knows anyone who knows anyone who knows what Rolex has planned. But the answer is probably no.

Hahaha. Turd Ferguson. You sir, have made my day with that user name.

[sickened1]

I started out with the 6-digit references (114060, BLNR, Hulk, etc) but now my collection only consists of 5-digit references (16710, 14270 and so on).

[yehlai]

114060 more posh + built like a tank and notch higher in terms of quality

14060 elegance tool watch + original legacy with balanced look

It's simple, quality and true to original.
Pick one and you won't get wrong

Review: http://www.rolexforums.com/showthread.php?t=508682

[lain09]

I was set on getting the 14060m as the lugs also look too big and wide on the 6 digit references.

Once I saw both in person at a store, I immediately decided I wanted the 114060 over the 14060m. Watches must be seen in person.

[Mundi]

Thank you everyone, the info and opinions are very appreciated. Happy Holidays!

[thesharkfactor]

You get used to the new features very quickly.... now when I look at a pre-ceramic sub I think it looks odd/small/thin/cheap (grossly over exaggerating here, I'm not bashing them).

[4lx]

If you want a more modern Rolex diver with better proportions, go for the 116600 Sea-Dweller 4000

[Mundi]

Originally Posted by 4lx

If you want a more modern Rolex diver with better proportions, go for the 116600 Sea-Dweller 4000

Damn. That Sea Dweller is really beautiful. But I think I have to go Submariner. My dad wore his from 1969 until it was stolen (grrrr) 5 years ago. I just feel a connection to the Sub.

[swils8610]

Originally Posted by 4lx

If you want a more modern Rolex diver with better proportions, go for the 116600 Sea-Dweller 4000

Exactly! OP have you tried in the SD4k?


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[Goin2drt]

Once you wear the glidelock bracelet, nothing else will do. I have a pre ceramic Sub as well as a new hulk. Can't even compare, the new bracelet makes up for any and all other perceived flaws.