Rolex Submariner 114060 History Explained – Ultimate Guide, Evolution, Specs & Market Value

The Rolex Submariner 114060 is one of the most important modern Rolex dive watches ever produced. Released in 2012 and discontinued in 2020, it represents the final evolution of the classic 40mm no-date Submariner before Rolex transitioned into a new design era.

Today, it is considered a modern benchmark reference in the luxury dive watch segment, combining tool-watch heritage, modern materials, and long-term investment appeal.

The Submariner Foundation (1953–Modern Era)

The Submariner line was introduced by Rolex in 1953 as a professional dive instrument designed for underwater exploration.

Over decades, it evolved into the most influential dive watch in history, improving in:

Water resistance engineering

Luminescence technology

Case architecture

Movement precision

Materials innovation

By the 21st century, the Submariner had become both:
A professional tool watch
A global luxury icon

2012 – The Launch of the 114060 (Major Generation Shift)

The introduction of the Rolex Submariner 114060 marked a significant generational upgrade.

It replaced the 14060M and introduced Rolex’s modern Submariner architecture.

Key upgrades:

40mm Oystersteel case with stronger lugs

Cerachrom ceramic bezel (scratch + fade resistant)

Maxi dial with enlarged hour markers

• Chromalight blue lume (long-lasting glow)

  Upgraded Oyster bracelet with Glidelock system

👉 This was the moment the Submariner fully entered the modern Rolex era.

⚙️ Inside the Watch – Calibre 3130

The 114060 is powered by the Rolex Calibre 3130, a movement designed for extreme reliability.

Technical highlights:

• COSC-certified chronometer precision

• Parachrom hairspring (anti-magnetic + shock resistant)

• ~48-hour power reserve

• Extremely low maintenance requirements

👉 This movement is engineered for decades of uninterrupted use.

🎯 No-Date Design – A Pure Tool Watch Identity

The most defining feature of the 114060 is what it removes: the date window.

This creates:

• Perfect dial symmetry

• Maximum legibility underwater

• Strong visual balance

• Direct connection to vintage Submariner DNA

👉 Many collectors consider the no-date Submariner the purest Rolex design philosophy

🔄 2020 Discontinuation & The 124060 Transition

In 2020, Rolex discontinued the 114060 and replaced it with the Rolex Submariner 124060.

Main upgrades in the successor:

• 41mm case (slightly larger)

• Calibre 3230 movement (70-hour power reserve)

• Refined proportions and updated bracelet

However, the 114060 remains highly preferred by purists because:

• It retains the classic 40mm sizing

• It has more “tool watch” proportions

• It represents the last traditional Submariner era

📈 Pre-Owned Market Value & Demand Surge

Since discontinuation, the 114060 has become highly sought-after in the secondary market.

Why demand remains strong:

• Final 40mm no-date Submariner generation

• Strong global recognition

• High liquidity in resale market

• Durable long-term value retention

👉 It is widely considered a future collectible Rolex reference

🧭 Why the 114060 Is Still Relevant in 2026

Despite being discontinued, the 114060 remains extremely relevant because it represents:

• The perfect balance between modern and classic Rolex design

• A true everyday luxury tool watch

• A transition point in Rolex design history

• One of the most wearable Submariners ever made

🏁 Final Conclusion

The Rolex Submariner 114060 is not just a discontinued reference—it is a defining milestone in modern horology.

It bridges two eras of Rolex design:
👉 Classic proportions
👉 Modern ceramic innovation

Discontinued, but far from forgotten, it continues to dominate the pre-owned market and remains one of the most respected Submariner references ever produced.