Stop being worried about boring Black Rolex Submariners. Did I buy a watch?

Some musings and I discuss why you shouldn’t be worried about black Rolex submariners !!
The recent Rolex buying journey and what did I buy or not buy ?

[@SteelmoonWatches]

The other 6 digit exception for me is the Sea Dweller sd4k 116600

[@Laguna2013]

I have a NOS one and can't wait to wear it

[@DutchBulldog]

Hey mate, I subbed to your channel after discovering your older videos comparing pre-ceramic with ceramic Rolexes. Decided to get a Sea Dweller 16600 (40mm, aluminum bezel insert, applied indexes), got it at an amazing price and in mint condition. I am now wearing the heck out of it. Can’t wait for the scratches to start giving this watch character and memories. In the end that is what watches are for: to be used and abused and to create memories with. Too many (modern) Rolexes are spending years in a safe. Total waste if you ask me!

[@fj7509]

Just subbed to your channel... That counterargument at 9:56 was seriously eye-opening. I've never heard anyone compare Rolex in that regard. Incredible!

[@SteelmoonWatches]

👌🏼

[@Futurama10000]

I've got a 116610LN and it's simplicity is what makes it perfect

[@BPFnSC]

New to watches. New to Rolex. I got a new 2024 black Submariner date from my local AD. I wanted a “boring” watch that most people don’t notice. As I’ve started down the watch rabbit hole I’m looking at getting a new Pepsi and a Grand Seiko snowflake. I prefer to buy new/latest additions because I want to be the one who puts all of the wear and tear on it. So one day when I pass down my watches to my two daughters it will mean more.

[@derekbrettell8121]

I agree with your points. I have 2 Rolex models which i really enjoy. Im just going to keep them, make memories with them and eventually pass them down. The only criticism i have of older models is that the clasps and adjustability aren't as good as the new models. Id personally always buy the latest newest model. However, you can't really go wrong with a classic Sub and Pepsi of any generation 🤷‍♂️

[@bloodymarvelous4790]

You could put a preceramic sub on a NATO strap. The bracelet and clasp don't matter then.

[@yankeedoodle6293]

I bought a Rolex 16610 in 2005. Been wearing it almost everyday since. Kinda getting tired of Rolex. Thins is what drew me to this channel

[@gaffs82]

A good one to check out if you want a sports date but don’t want the hype, is the GMT 116710 with the all black bezel. That would be a nice change up from the sub no date and still wearable with anything.

[@SteelmoonWatches]

Agreed. And you don’t see the gmt hand so much

[@caseyzaft6734]

Cmon Mike, just resurrect the 114060 and call it. Done

[@DmcHulk]

I just bought my 1st rolex yesterday, a 2014 114060 from the Rolex CPO program, great experience, mint condition, rolex warranty, full set and my sons birth year, for me perfect and timeless👌

[@SteelmoonWatches]

I like the 11 series 👌🏼

[@gaffs82]

Rolex CPO - Crazy Prices Only!

[@DmcHulk]

@@gaffs82 100% , but I'd rather pay £1500 over on a watch I do want rather than pay £5 or £6k on a watch I don't want, especially when its a mint certified original example with a 2 year rolex warranty on a 10 year old watch, just to help my buy history so eventually I'll get them stainless steel rolex sports watches at list and it'll all be worth while 😉😁

[@gaffs82]

@@DmcHulk that’s not the worst deal. In NYC they are about 1/3 over the grey market prices.

[@DmcHulk]

@@gaffs82 they also had a 2018 mint Hulk at £14950, nobody can tell me that’s an inflated price, it’s probably the best price for a Hulk anywhere, don’t get me wrong though, most of the rest of their prices were over inflated.

[@krischaralambides71]

grest video mate . Just went and ordered the 40mm Sub date

[@markq1]

I've just purchased a 124300 Silver OP. So simple & elegant. It's mad how our taste in watches continuously changes.

[@wicked-witch-of-the-west]

You're nuts selling the pre ceramic pepsi. For me the ultimate collection would be Pre Ceramic Pepsi. BLNR on oyster. A Hulk.

[@SteelmoonWatches]

There might be a U turn.

[@Saints-Forever]

@@SteelmoonWatchesthe neo vintage pepsi is so versatile and a perfect one watch for most

[@ustac1247]

@@Saints-Forever Vintage and neo-vintage/pre-ceramic Pepsi GMTs are great, but any serious Rolex collector should also have a Sub. The Sub is tougher, more masculine, tool-like and more useful in most situations. The GMT is more gentrified and useful for people who fly/travel a lot.

[@Saints-Forever]

@@ustac1247 couldn’t agree more hence I also have kermit and hulk to compliment the pepsi😊

[@mikedavid6681]

I agree on the kermit. Perfect mix of new and old

[@LAVA1980]

Just picked up the 114060 this week.... Last of the 2020s....u talked me into it

[@GroomsJk]

I visited an AD recently and was amazed how big, bulky, and blingy the new sport watches are today - and I am big guy at 6-4 215. I recently ordered a mint 2005 sea dweller from Japan and appreciate the clean lines and no thrill esthetic of the watch. It is comfortable and low key. Away from work, I spend much time outdoors - camping, hiking, surfing, kayaking - and my watch takes a lot of abuse. This is where the five digit sport models shine. Tool watches as they were meant to be. Rolex has become a marketing only company, and it is quite sad. Thanks for the great commentary. On the abroad workout comment, I agree. When I travel I do a 20 minute routine of 80 10ct burpees. I find it is all I need to maintain strength and cardio until I’m back at my home gym.

[@SteelmoonWatches]

Thanks mate. Nice choice with that SD!

[@Ferien7]

Totally agree with you on modern Rolex. They’re ridiculously blingy, effeminate, and dressy. Nothing tooly about them and they’re stupidly big, bulky, and heavy. Hard pass. And all other brands are copying Rolex. This has ruined modern watches.

[@mohnnadmercedes8246]

Me too i tried modern sub years ago and surprised who blingy and screaming pretentious is.

[@CTizer]

Thats where the blue Tudor bb58 “shined” for me, so many perfect fusions of the older references and the proportions were absolutely spot on.

[@Pler1978]

And quite silly ppl acting like they want a rolex as a tool watch ..never met one person that wore their rolex as a tool watch . Watch ppl and their cosplaying...

[@drewweglein5206]

It’s funny, you were talking about going back to hulk a few months ago 😂 you are right about the 5 digit sub fit. I have a serti I hardly wear but love how comfortable it is! Recently got a call for a blue yachtmaster and haven’t taken it off. The fit might be what you are looking for!

[@austinzizzi1142]

I picked out a 5 digit pre ceramic 2 line 14060m for my friend for his 30th birthday last month. Was afraid he’d not feel unique enough with it but realized it was the best choice and he’ll make it his own. Also am going to buy him a Tudor fabric strap for it to make it feel a bit more unique to him

[@sonengagg]

Love the format of videos you are doing, this is the only way i want to see watches on yt - on the wrist. Anyways, i did get the newest sub model a year ago from the ad and i never warmed up on it. I always felt like the watch was wearing me instead of the other way around and i never felt really at ease with it on my wrist (to be fair it was also too bulky). I am not sure why, maybe bc it was brand new and as much as i wanted to make dents and scuffs and memories with it i couldnt get myself to fully enjoy it. Funnily enough i also have a laureato and i feel invisible with it and just have much more fun with it. Ultimately i sold the sub now and i feel like some one took a weight off my shoulder bc now i have space in my collection to acquire other pieces. Have a good weekend and keep crushing it dude

[@SteelmoonWatches]

Thanks for the kind words mate. Glad you liked it.

[@JB-fk7ed]

I totally agree here. The new 12 digit submariners and GMTs are just a little too thick, too bulky, too wide, and lack the refinement and elegance of the 5 and 4 digit references. The ONLY 2 exceptions I have found are the 116600 - which has a more narrow lug-to-lug dimension than the other 6 digit references - and the 116500 Daytona. The Daytona - which is the only modern Rolex I own - is the exception because of it's 38mm case and slim profile all around. Believe it or not, the first gen ceramic Daytona case is almost identical in footprint to the case of the 1675 which to me is the pincale of GMTs. Thanks for the video!

[@Laguna2013]

I understand the new 12 series sub is actually thinner than prior gen

[@JB-fk7ed]

​@@Laguna2013 It may be thinner on paper, but the caseback makes the watch sit taller than it actually is. At least, that's been my opinion of it when I've tried them on.

[@ernestosuarez5077]

After two years of waiting I got the call for a Sea Dweller 43. The watch I always wanted. Here in Miami which is almost impossible. And I had to walk away from it. The call came at one of the worst times in my life financially. At least now I know they actually call. I was offered an explorer2, a watchmaster 40 and sub no date. So the call will happen just be prepared for it.

[@SteelmoonWatches]

The universe always has a plan 👌🏼

[@panoramicpictures8144]

Might have missed it but I don’t think you ever explained why you sold the blusey.

[@gaffs82]

Have you never considered a DJ? I just got the green 41 fluted from my wife for our tenth anniversary. You are right about not being unique being a Rolex buyer, but at least with the DJ you have multiple dial options. And at least they are not nearly as hype as the sports range - the DJ is always going to be timeless.

[@SteelmoonWatches]

Once considered rhodium. Would like to try one at some point. Was always a question of steel vs two tone …

[@gaffs82]

@@SteelmoonWatches the Rhodium, or Slate as they call it now (not sure the difference ) looks superb. Check out the silver face too - amazing in person. As is the black. The Wimbledon, I don’t get the hype on - the white 9 o clock stick is so random with the romans. I went oyster as I think jubilee plus fluted is a lot of bling - oyster helps to tone it down and makes it easier to daily. Two tone is far too flash for me - makes it hard to wear at work.

[@leehancott26]

Great content and observations. I have a few watches and I had a 2021 Op with silver dial and gold hand and explorer 2 black dial which I got from Ad . Asked them about green bezel sub, and last week got the call and received it, as been trying not to look at anymore. But am so happy with the new green as is closer to original green.

[@musicmediaoutlets123]

WE NEED YOUR THOUGHTS ON VIDEO ABOUT THE NEW ROLEX AND TUDOR RELEASES!

[@the_shadow_realm5110]

Don’t overthink it Mike. You’re a beefy hunk of a man, with 8 inch wrists. The 12 digit black sub-date is literally made for you. The refined lugs, the glidelock clasp, the cyclops and highly legible dial. It’s all you need mate. One and done.

[@SteelmoonWatches]

😂 thanks mate. I’m more in 7.2inch wrist camp

[@galaga8834]

Everyone has a black Sub ceramic date but not everyone has my ceramic GMT. The Black GMT 116710LN, now discontinued. This watch I wouldn't swap for any new Rolex. Best of both worlds. Looks like a fancy Sub, with polished centre links which I actually like, doesn't have a clasp like a small matchbox car and has easy link which is more than one needs. Also wears thinner than any modern Sub. And it goes with everything. Side by side (for me it) destroys any black modern Sub. The subtle green GMT hand, the bezel which turns from black to grey in various lights. Perfection.

[@Sonofserge]

Hey Mike have you ever ran a 226570 or an older expl ii? Super keen for your take on the new expl ii. Or are you set on divers only?

[@SteelmoonWatches]

I have a video on my older 16570. Worth looking it up bud 👍🏼

[@Sonofserge]

@@SteelmoonWatches ​​⁠ah sorry mate will do. Keep the content coming, epic content man!

[@likandros3633]

I love your channel... I own a 124060 but I am about to exchange it with the 114060 nos for the smaller bracelet and more bulletproof movement.. Am I crazy?? What's your thought?

[@SteelmoonWatches]

Thank you 🙏🏼 I support this move.

[@ViolinistWilliam]

I saw your new Kermit on insta and it’s a perfect watch on you. Nice military vibes from the green, big markers. The best of the pre-ceramic. A superb one-two punch with your no date.

[@SteelmoonWatches]

Thanks mate :)

[@4DR14NCR41G]

Had my Kermit 20 years in 2 days and still love it although it doesn’t see the light it used to because of safety issues and instead wear a MRGB5000D but don’t understand this watch world where there’s no interest in movements unless it increases the investment and for some reason watches are called kettles by the youth today, do miss the conversations of the past when it was about the watch and not the deal worth of. No a fan of the new Sub, did have one briefly but gone from tool watch to a highly polished piece of jewellery, the easy link was nice, did see a lovely 1993 36mm Tudor Sub with black bezel that I would love if in the market right now and the only current piece that does spark my interest is the polar dial Explorer II Your right about Rolex not being rare, it’s the most produced luxury watch, not much has changed, imagine something like a golf gti that never really changed from first release to modern day and the current still looked a lot like the first, still a great daily car and a little special but not exclusive and loads of used examples out there and certainly another not to far away or in the car park. Looking forward to the review of your Kermit and enjoy the rest of your holiday

[@SteelmoonWatches]

Thanks mate. I appreciate the feedback and sharing. You must have a flat 4 then maybe 🤙🏽

[@AmitBhandari82]

I think you just need an SMP. Black one with red text. It’ll go nicely with the string thingies.

[@SteelmoonWatches]

All about the string thingies 👌🏼

[@Pler1978]

Rolex sub are underwhelming for sure. Got sd 43 and but have no interest in any other rolexes. Love my sd 43 but definitely not better than my omega diver chronograph which was 5k cheaper. Rolex a little better refinement but omega feels much more rugged ...and better made overall. Actually feel the oyster bracelet is not as good as the omega bracelet. Too much taper and too thin and light . The rolex definitely is far far more prone to scratches than the omega. Omega is not nearly as prone to micro scratches and swirls

[@Kalmar917]

I feel you on this. Pre-ceramic is where it is at. Classic sub no date. I. Understand those that need a date for sure. Ceramic is a beautiful watch but it is too shiny. It looks more like jewelry and less of a tool watch. I am sure it is capable but is not proven. 5 digit subs have been to wars. I would say a 5 digit whether M or no M is the pinnacle in my opinion when it comes to a tool watch. The aluminum bezel will age with the case. The scratches as you said are what will make your sub your own. Even if you buy a 5 digit pre-owned polished or relatively unpolished can still make your own. Sure someone else will say it looks like everyone else’s sub but for those that know about our addiction know that one man’s sub is not the same as another man’s sub. You are absolutely right about this and hitting it right on the nail. I have my 5 digit sub that I bought in 05. I have a 6538 as a family heirloom. I have a BB58 because that’s the closest thing to the big crown that I can knock around. Yet my 5 digit is perfection to me. I have taken it everywhere. One of my kids will own this watch and will have two horological heirlooms and one other. Sure is there a 6538 out there that looks like mine, yes. But the scratches and small dents make it different. My 5 digit has some scratches from diving, surfing, building around the house, working out and running. All of them make it my sub and no one else’s. Same for my BB58. That there my friend are the stories one of my kids will own and pass on. That kid will have his own sub and you see the watches move along from one to another. I hope we all have plenty of time with our subs before we have to hand them off but in doing so a bit of us lives on within each scratch and dent we created with our willingness to live a full life. God bless all of you and this video was fantastic!

[@SteelmoonWatches]

Thanks for sharing mate. I agree with a lot of your points. The bb58 is a great watch, shame Tudor couldn’t execute the bb gmt or Pro to as good a level.

[@Kalmar917]

@@SteelmoonWatches Totally agree with that sentiment on the Tudor BB GMT.

[@INEC213]

Checking in after a year away. I take it the Bluesy is a gonner?

[@kevinmccalister8197]

Yeah computers don't tell date next to the time.

[@SteelmoonWatches]

I didn’t pay for premium

[@drkesrf]

Oddly enough, i enjoy the gym more on vacations 😂. Not sure why. Anyway, another enjoyable video!

[@joed1443]

Love your videos and always look forward to them. Great work. For a one watch collection, would you get a black sub or a BLNR?

[@SteelmoonWatches]

Thanks mate. Good question - depends how much you need 2/3 time zones. I do like the Batman - it’s the only one that’s really avoided me.

[@craigmcbride526]

I have the 116600. Rarely see them. Date no cyclops. Sub on steroids.

[@THEMIDNIGHTCHOPPER]

What business you doing in Philippines ? My wife’s Filipino and I’ve been there a few times. Just wondering. Seems like you travel there frequently.

[@bloodymarvelous4790]

I think it's okay to be happy with what you got. You're looking at your 14060m and think: "I need something with a date and larger hour markers." To which I say: "You already have one. The 116600."

Greetings from Brazil 🇧🇷

[@Anonymouslyme1]

Was about to say Steel Reef before you mentioned it!

[@leoncardoso2175]

Fascinating dialogue / content as per

[@emmanuelrodriguez5044]

Hi Michael good video my friend, I would love to heard your opinion about the Rolex explorer II Polar, yes I know it’s big according your standards but I like big watches and have the wrist to wear them, I found the polar beautiful and very masculine , great to go on vacation or do anything without calling to much attention, pls let me know if you ever have any experience with that one, thanks

[@SteelmoonWatches]

Thanks mate. I Like the polars - though my favourite is the black floating hand explorer 2. I’m not sure how much I like white dials. They can be nice.

[@MatthewJones-yg1sy]

Swiss only dials on Subs and GMT’s are my favorites..98/99 U and A serial….🍷

[@VicFlange]

Excellent video as always! So love these lofty musings on the nuances of Rolex. No more thoughts, views on Omega?

[@SteelmoonWatches]

Thank you :) Tried on an SMP300 today lol. That’s it for now

[@tudorserban111]

​@@SteelmoonWatches Did you sell your SMP?

[@SteelmoonWatches]

@@tudorserban111 last year. Yes

[@tudorserban111]

​@@SteelmoonWatchesIt's hard to keep up with your collection sometimes. 😂

[@SteelmoonWatches]

Tell me about it !

[@7979dennis]

Good points enjoyed viewing 👍

[@rajmehta6210]

Interested to hear where you source your bracelet threads from ?

[@SteelmoonWatches]

Random places when travelling mate

[@jimerinrose6235]

Another great video!

[@frankv7068]

Get an Omega SeaMaster Planet Ocean Or a Breitling Super Ocean.

[@osterkenn]

I just bought a used but unworn 2019 116610. I prefer the maxi case as the new sub with the smaller case makes the bezel look like a fat tire to me. Now that I have clasp fexibility I'm not sure I could go back. Perhaps it's a psychological thing. Funny, there are indeed times the bezel is a bit shiny for me. Doesn't fit the situation, shooting range, fishing or what have you. I noticed if I rub my thumb on the bezel for a minute it will tone down that shiny glare about 30percent til the next time it gets wet. Strange practice I know but effective. In the U.S dealers want 15k for a 2019 certfied pre owned.What a hoax. I got my non-certified for 11.5.

[@SteelmoonWatches]

That exactly the model and year I was after. Nice addition mate 👌🏼

[@gomezlirez555]

Where are you ordering the coke bezel from?thanks

[@SteelmoonWatches]

Not sure yet. Supplier has dried up on them

[@0140byron]

great watch 👌

[@sonidostime4295]

Whats your take on 16600? Im about to get one and i see you got rid of yours?

[@SteelmoonWatches]

Great watch. I was offered great money for it so sold it as had other stuff Was fantastic.

[@davecorry7723]

Six-digit chappie, here. But not all six-digits are equal. I wanted a gold Daytona. I happen to love the black-gold contrast, so I wanted a black band rather than full-gold bracelet. But which one? I think the Oysterflex is lovely but ... I just love gold on black leather. And Rolex used to make just this model: gold Daytona on black leather, but it was a complete dog. Even when Daytonas were popular, they couldn't give that model away. The gold-on-leather was introduced in year 2000: it was Rolex's way of celebrating the new millennium (of couse, along with SS versions). AND, it was the first six-digit Daytona. AND it was the first Daytona built entirely to BE a Daytona: because it was the first with a bespoke movement, the magnificent 4130. Not a Zenith used elsewhere. Not a Valjoux used elsewhere. I wanted that first, _real_ Daytona. And I wanted one produced in that first year: year 2000. And that means a P-serial Daytona. I don't want a later one; I wanted a P-serial. Unfortunately, because they were such a dog, Rolex didn't sell many, which meant Rolex didn't produce many. But I finally got one. Wearing it now. Five-digit Rolexes are lovely. Four-digit, even more so. But I wouldn't tar all six-digit with the same brush ...

[@SteelmoonWatches]

True. Thanks mate

[@nads7865]

Behind the hype of six digit, the five digit sub is just amazing. I saw one recently at the airport and was just blown away at how nice the aluminum bezel is. I was expecting Tudor level bezel but it’s much better than that.

[@vforvictor7575]

How do you find these pieces so easy , what's your source.

[@SteelmoonWatches]

Which pieces mate? Nothing easy sadly

[@kevinhan721]

Did you sell the bluesy? Why?

[@SteelmoonWatches]

Yes. Wasn’t worn enough really.

[@ezra420420]

Try jujitsu fun workout

[@SteelmoonWatches]

I did it :)

[@austinzizzi1142]

I bout a Tudor 54 and I’m about to put real vintage Rolex sub hands on it

[@jeanlouisdubillon4212]

I got it so confortable !

[@ChristopherNegroni]

Around and around we go brotha. I fear you’ll get the 116610ln and the lugs will rear its ugly head. You know exactly what I mean. Between the clasp on the 12 and the lugs on the 11 we can’t have it all 😩. And here I am looking at a 14060m everytime I watch your videos because it looks so damn sharp on you 😎 . Always look forward to your rumination videos, makes me feel not so crazy 😆

[@SteelmoonWatches]

Join me on the merry go round won’t you 😎 we still have loads of tickets

[@ChristopherNegroni]

@@SteelmoonWatches 😎😎😎

[@RelojesYRelojes]

I have a Submariner 41 no date.... im so tempted to change it for a preceramic sub like the 14060M...... Im I nuts here?

[@tony8154]

I'm surprised you're not venturing into the world of the Explorer, either the 36, 39, or 40. Got my 36mm a few weeks ago and all my other watches have stopped keeping time LOL.

[@mema4922]

What do you think of Tudor? Do models like the smaller bb58’s appeal to you?

[@SteelmoonWatches]

Nice watches the 58 and sensibly priced

[@mema4922]

@@SteelmoonWatches I wonder if Rolex will do a 39mm sub at some point, a lot of people would like that (watch collectors). But then again, 90 percent of Rolex watch wearers like the shiny, conspicuous nature of modern Rolexes, so a smaller case wouldn’t be popular amongst them.

[@ustac1247]

I understand your mindset, but if you can get past all the douchebags that are wearing modern Rolex watches, the new stuff's pretty darn good, particularly the 226570 Exp2 Polar. Most people wearing that watch (Exp2 Polar) and the black Exp2 are pretty cool people. The modern Exp2 Polar looks fantastic on wrist, and has a lot of wrist presence. It's also got an extremely easy-to-read dial that's happy and upbeat to look at, due to its white dial, black-outlined markers, and orange GMT hand. You have to try it on to understand it. Btw, I'm wearing a 14060M 2-liner as I write this, and was wearing 16750 Pepsi (matte dial) earlier in the day...and I still love the new Exp2 Polar. That's how good it is.

[@gaffs82]

What happened to your instagram ?

[@SteelmoonWatches]

Social media break mate. Distracting 👍🏼

[@michaelriera6277]

Training? Away? Take a break.

[@robertwallach550]

Zzzzzz z zzzzzzzź

[@fearnpol4938]

Christ your not an American movie actor, no need to slurp we all believe you’ve got a drink!

[@SteelmoonWatches]

😂

[@elasterling2819]

We’re do you get this pieces from? 🇵🇱

[@drunkensessions]

What happened to your Bluesy?

[@SteelmoonWatches]

Gone with the wind

[@drunkensessions]

@@SteelmoonWatches Oh sad to hear that, really enjoyed that video you've made on it and the watch. If you can share thoughts on why you got rid of it in some future video would be appreciated.