Why Collectors Still Chase the Rolex Submariner 114060

The Last of the 40mm Submariners

The term 114060 for sale is one of the most searched in the pre-owned Rolex market, and for good reason. Produced from 2012 to 2020, this discontinued Submariner represents the final evolution of Rolex's iconic 40mm dive watch before the brand shifted to a larger 41mm case. For broader context on the model line, see the official Rolex Submariner collection and the overview on Rolex Submariner.

The 114060 occupies a unique position in modern collecting. It's new enough to feature contemporary materials like the scratch-resistant Cerachrom bezel and upgraded Glidelock clasp, yet it retains the classic 40mm proportions that many collectors prefer. Its clean, symmetrical no-date dial appeals to purists who value simplicity and balance.

Since production ended, the 114060 has transitioned from a current model to a modern collectible. Buyers are not just looking for a dive watch; they are seeking the last example of a specific design philosophy. Understanding what makes the 114060 special is the first step, but knowing how to buy one with confidence is what separates a smart investment from a costly mistake.

5 Reasons the Rolex 114060 is a Modern Collectible

The Rolex Submariner 114060 isn't just another discontinued model; it's a watch that represents a particular moment in Rolex's evolution. It brought together decades of refinement while maintaining proportions that many collectors consider ideal. When you see a 114060 for sale today, you're looking at the final iteration of Rolex's 40mm no-date Submariner before the brand shifted direction.

What makes this watch special is the combination of thoughtful design, proven engineering, and timing. It arrived when Rolex had perfected modern materials but hadn't yet moved to the larger case sizes of the next generation.

1. The Perfect Proportions: The 'MAXI' Case in 40mm

While keeping the 40mm diameter, Rolex introduced the 'MAXI' case (or 'Super Case') with this generation, featuring broader lugs and chunkier crown guards. This design gives the watch a more substantial presence on the wrist without feeling oversized. It strikes a perfect balance, feeling modern and robust while remaining comfortable and versatile enough for daily wear. This case acts as a bridge between eras, incorporating contemporary styling while retaining the universally wearable 40mm size. For collectors who want a modern watch that doesn't feel oversized, the 114060 hits the sweet spot.

2. A Modern Classic: The Cerachrom Bezel and Glidelock Clasp

The 114060 introduced significant upgrades that transformed the Submariner into an almost indestructible daily companion. The most visible is the Cerachrom bezel, a proprietary ceramic insert that resists scratches and fading, unlike the aluminium bezels of older models. Equally important is the Glidelock clasp, an ingenious system allowing for tool-free micro-adjustments of the bracelet for a perfect fit. The bracelet and case are crafted from 904L Oystersteel, Rolex's corrosion-resistant alloy that takes a beautiful polish. These are not flashy updates, but thoughtful, practical improvements that improve ownership and wearability (Rolex outlines these features on the Submariner page).

3. The Purist's Choice: The Symmetrical 'No-Date' Dial

Many collectors call the 114060 "the purist's Submariner" for its perfectly symmetrical dial. With no date window or Cyclops lens, the focus is on clean legibility and proportion. This aesthetic is powered by the Calibre 3130, a robust, in-house automatic movement with a 48-hour power reserve. While succeeded by newer movements, the 3130 is a proven workhorse, known for its dependability and serviceability. The dial also features Rolex's long-lasting blue Chromalight display, ensuring excellent legibility in low light. This combination of clean design and proven mechanics makes the 114060 a true tool watch.

4. The Sweet Spot: Comparing the 114060 to Its Successor

When Rolex introduced the 41mm Submariner (ref. 124060) in 2020, the 114060 instantly became the 'last of its kind'. The differences are subtle but meaningful to collectors. The successor has a larger 41mm case with slimmer lugs, a wider 21mm bracelet, and an updated Calibre 3230 movement with a longer power reserve. For many, the 114060 represents a preference for classic proportions combined with modern materials. Its 40mm case is often considered more universally wearable, making it a discontinued model with strong, lasting appeal in the pre-owned market.

5. Finding a Quality Rolex 114060 for Sale: What to Look For

When shopping for a pre-owned 114060, condition is paramount. Look for honest descriptions and clear photos. For a modern watch like this, a professional polish to remove light scratches is generally acceptable and does not diminish value, unlike with vintage pieces. The presence of box and papers is also crucial, as a 'full set' confirms the watch's provenance and significantly improves its resale value. Most importantly, sourcing from a trusted dealer who provides transparent information and guarantees authenticity is the only way to ensure you are making a sound investment. You can explore our curated collection of watches to see authenticated examples.

Securing Your Own 114060: A Buyer's Guide

Finding the right 114060 for sale is one thing; buying it with complete confidence is another. The biggest hurdle in the pre-owned market isn't availability, it's trust. This is why we built WristWorks to be as transparent and secure as possible for collectors across Australia.

Why Buy from a Trusted Dealer?

When searching for a 114060, you can buy privately or through a specialist dealer. A private sale might seem cheaper, but it carries significant risks. Verifying authenticity is difficult without expert knowledge, and you have little to no recourse if something goes wrong.

At WristWorks, we eliminate that uncertainty. Here’s how:

• Guaranteed Authenticity: Every watch is authenticated in-house by our specialists before being listed. We guarantee the authenticity of every timepiece we sell. While we don't issue physical certificates, our reputation is built on this promise. We only authenticate watches we own or sell, but can recommend trusted third-party services for pieces you already own.
• Direct Ownership & Quality Control: We own 95% of our inventory. This means we have vetted each watch, ensuring its quality and immediate availability. If it's on our site, it's in our hands and ready to ship.
• Transparent Pricing: All prices are GST-inclusive, with no hidden fees. What you see is what you pay.

We also offer consignment as a useful secondary service for sellers. In this case, we hold, authenticate, and manage the entire transaction, ensuring security for both buyer and seller. All consignment pieces are held in-house, and payments are made directly to WristWorks; once the sale completes, we remit proceeds to you. Our primary focus, however, is on our curated, in-house collection. Our goal is to make buying a luxury watch online a simple, trustworthy process. You can view all available timepieces or contact us for assistance.

If you’re considering selling your own 114060 instead of buying, selling directly to a dealer can save time and uncertainty. We provide quick quotes and guaranteed in-house authentication on watches we purchase outright. Start a valuation here: submit a watch enquiry.

Buying the 114060: Key Points to Remember

When you see a 114060 for sale, keep these practical checks in mind:

• Match clear, high-resolution photos to the description and serial-era details you expect.
• Prioritise full sets with original box and papers for stronger provenance and resale liquidity.
• For modern watches like the 114060, a professional polish is generally acceptable; for vintage references, polishing is usually avoided.
• Ask for authentication details and service history where available. At WristWorks, all watches are authenticated in-house and listed with transparent information.
• If you’re weighing a private purchase versus a dealer, consider the cost of risk. A reputable dealer provides security, recourse, and verified authenticity.

Need custom advice or want us to source a specific set? Contact us or submit a watch enquiry.

Your Next Timepiece

The Rolex Submariner 114060 is a modern classic, representing the end of the 40mm Submariner era. It balances contemporary materials like the Cerachrom bezel with the classic proportions and symmetrical dial that purists admire. It’s not the newest model, and that’s precisely what gives it lasting appeal.

If you're ready to add a 114060 to your collection, we're here to help you do it with confidence. Every watch we sell is backed by our in-house authenticity guarantee. We've built WristWorks on the principle that buying a luxury watch online should be simple and secure.

Explore our current listings to see what's available, or submit a watch enquiry if you're searching for a specific piece. Planning to sell or trade? Selling directly to an expert dealer offers a swift, certain process, with guaranteed in-house authentication on watches we purchase outright—start with a quick valuation via our watch enquiry form. We also welcome trade-ins. Contact us to discuss your options or get a valuation. Let's find your next timepiece.