Which Rolex Submariner is BEST? Nostalgia vs Neo-Vintage vs Modern

Torn on the Rolex Submariner and which model I like the most. Here I explain my all-time top three models, and why each of them has its own reasons for being my number one choice.

[@dean5346]

Hi Mark I own the Rolex Kermit 2008 model. And a new Starbucks/ mark 2 dial. picked up in Feb 24. The original is nice as the steel insert gives it a bit more character. For me the old is more a tool watch. The Starbucks is more luxurious watch these days. The big difference for me is the bracelet. The old is good. But the Starbucks is superior. So much more bracelet adjustment. Personally I prefer the more modern watch. Not because it’s a new watch. I would take the Starbucks over the Kermit. My Kermit is mint condition. I’m a little paranoid that I may ding the dial. So I tend to wear the new one without any worries .

[@Matt-uq3in]

Definitely the submarine it's pure class I have the 114060 bought it from AD 2019 love it 🔥👍

[@ahhcrickets]

For purity sake, the 5513 if you can afford it and find a nice example. If you want something bulletproof, 14060 or the 14060M. I don’t think the latest model is worth chasing. I think you’ll find it will be more difficult to find a nice vintage or neo vintage as time passes. I do think these will be highly sought after more than the newest iteration.

[@ahhcrickets]

@@SaintWill70more for the purists and watch enthusiast. Enjoy!

[@Sasquatchi]

Hi Mark, couple of thoughts…. Availability would seem to be the same, as you could just as easily buy the 12 series sub from Chrono (and as you noted the prices are effectively the same) The 5513 is listed as 14.5mm thick, the 16610 listed at 12.8mm thick, and the 126610 at 12.5mm If you’re keeping the collection, it sounds like you’d like the 5513. If you’re seeking a watch nirvana, I’d go with the 12 series. The neo vintage series feels like a “half pregnant” solution.

[@TheRandomWatchDude]

Thanks for your very helpful feedback! yes you're right - the 5 digit is the half pregnant solution. It's either the highly risky but nostalgic 5513, or the modern 124060 isn't it. Thank you for the clarity!

[@MrEgstrom]

I was recently in the exact situation. I ended up with a 2011 14060m got it unserviced from original owner. Choose this cause it is “original” sub shape and at a lower age, so i can scuf the watch with my “life story” The go-to that will never leave my collection. Hoping it will be the one my kids want when im gone

[@n.s.g74]

All superb watches! I received 'the call' from my AD back in Jan this year & picked up my 124060 & every time i wear it, it still blows me away how good it looks & feels. Could easily sell all other watches & go with the 124060 as a one & done collection.......but i won't 😂. Great channel always with great content 👍🏻👍🏻

[@TheRandomWatchDude]

@@n.s.g74 You hit the jackpot! Congratulations!

[@n.s.g74]

When it comes to the 3 watches I'd still wait for a 124060 from my AD, the other 2 are great watches but not brand new so history unknown + in my opinion the 124060 is the superior watch with the newest most accurate movement, scratch resistant ceramic bezel & on the fly adjustment. Look forward to hearing which watch you go for 👍🏻

[@MegaThucydides]

Sean Connery did not wear his own Rolex on camera. In fact I don't think we know if he personally owns watches. The James Bond watch either belonged to producer Cubby Broccoli or some random guy on the beach!

[@TheRandomWatchDude]

So you're sure Sean didn't wear his own watch, but have no clue who's watch it was? You might need a little more supportive evidence if you're going to tell me I'm wrong.

[@MegaThucydides]

@@TheRandomWatchDude You seem like a prickly fellow. Google the Connery submariner, find me a source that says it's his personal watch. As you did not pay me tuition, I don't have the time to educate you further. Good day

[@TheRandomWatchDude]

@@MegaThucydides But you were the one who is adamant that I am wrong sir, so don't contradict somebody's statement if you have no evidence to support it. And yes I am prickly with people who think they know better, but don't. It's a trait that comes with the benefit of experience. Good day to you too, fine sir!

[@nedflanders3769]

The 5513 does it for me. There’s a birth year 5513 on chrono24 that has been tempting me greatly. It looks almost too good to be true though. Both condition and price…..

[@TheRandomWatchDude]

@nedflanders3769 that's rhe problem with the older Rollies, as they get messed around with so much. How do you know what's original anymore?!

[@sambo76]

Mark, I own the 124060 - it is rock solid and a classic looking piece despite being brand new. Credit to Rolex, to continually upgrade and refine a watch like the Sub but still recognizable decades later. The 124060 has the look of a classic, with the best modern build and movement Rolex offers. Get a new one at retail from your AD with a full warranty, wear it for life, beat it up, and pass it on to a loved one. That’s the coolest vibe of all.

[@TheRandomWatchDude]

You nailed it right there!

[@jamescook1398]

I would argue modern Rolex Subs have also got bigger and more blingy. Shiny ceramic bezels, polished center links and generally chunkier case feels less toolish and more blingy. For that reason I would go neo-vintage.

[@MandarKasture]

126610 LV is my choice and none other than

[@Kalmar917]

The 14060m two liner for me is the best. It has the 3130 as well without the bling. It is more Roger Moore, Steve McQueen, Robert Redford and so many more than the 12460. Also, the new movement does have an amplitude issue and has a larger rotor with more power reserve. The shock resistance I am not too sure about that but the higher power reserve along with better magnetism is true. But who cares for magnetism when the 124060m handles more than you will ever want to be around anyway. As for the power reserve that is great if you have a heavy watch rotation but outside of that it should be your daily. I have the 2 liner and have experience with the 124060 and there is not difference with the movement. I have a few friends with the 41mm and it just is not of the same ilk. Ceramic bezel will break if you hit it right on a rock and costs 500 to replace. Don’t ask how I know but it happens if you use your sub.

[@TheRandomWatchDude]

That's very useful feedback thanks. I have read about issues with the newer movement, and we know from the Tudor date wheel issue, that they will quietly fix it without ever acknowledging the issue's existence. Hopefully they've resolved it on the newer movements. I think if I go for the 14060 it will be the later model as I actually quite like the 4 lines of text.

[@Kalmar917]

Yes, I believe they have resolved the issue for the later models but whomever bought the newer sub early will need to send it into to Rolex. Also, the rotor is larger and at times makes a lot of noise on the newer models but that is not a real issue just a characteristic of the new movement. The 14060m 4-Liner is a good in between. I just think the 14060m 2 liner that had the same movement looks more to that Roger Moore 5513 you referenced.

[@francoruggeri6209]

Hello Mark, for everyday use and as a ‘one watch collection’ I would definitely go for the current submariner reference with date 126610LN. Try going back to your AD for a chat, as you have an established relationship, and start feeling out the ground so you get an idea... However, before that, there is the most important step to take: start selling all your divers in order to ‘redeem’ yourself and escape the purgatory you are in...😂 Only then you'll be ready to move on. Have a good Sunday! 😉

[@TheRandomWatchDude]

Great advice and thank you. I'm definitely working on reducing the collection one-at-a-time, the collection is diminishing!

[@robynsjp]

I'm a bit older than you (1961) and can tell you feelings, emotion and sentimental value (nostalgia is a powerful one) far outweighs practical considerations such as steel type etc or even price. Which is why I bought in my case a 1967 5513 to meet my strong urges for nostalgia for the 1960s. No water ever with that one, but that's not the point. For water, I use a perfect Breitling 1500m paid 3K 12 years ago, which is most likely worth any Rolex from a WR perspective and comfort. I can probably today sell it 3K. I would never go swim with 15K on my wrist, which is the preposterous price of a Sea Dweller 1200m. I would strongly recommend what, in the long term, will be the most important factor for you - nostalgia I guess. The other factors are material, unimportant. One final point : if you do go for an "ultimate" piece that is collection grade (very rare) at a much higher price, you may love to own it, but you may decide not to wear it. Simply too special. I have that with a 1963 Seamaster with all fully original parts in exceptional condition. And exceptional means primary parts which lasted for one quarter only, and which cannot be replaced ever - with perhaps a handful still existing worldwide in that condition. But 5513s in the 1960s were not rare, you should be able to find one, but it will mean no swimming with it. 14060 is too much "in the middle", and 124060 is just showoff bling, uninteresting, to impress people rather than yourself.

[@TheRandomWatchDude]

@robynsjp thank you for the very considered real-world view. You're right about many things, including the 5 digit sub being a half-way house, neither vintage Nostalgia or modern luxury. The Roger Moore effect is weighing heavily upon me!

[@Crazy_Joe_Davola]

What about taking a look at a late model neo-vintage sub with the solid end link bracelet and no-holes case, either with no date, OR same neo-vintage bluesy date which in my opinion might be the most beautiful dial Rolex has ever made. These SEL bracelet models had other upgrades also.

[@TheRandomWatchDude]

Yes agreed, those late models just before they went ceramic are the ones I need to look at. lot's of little upgrades that combined make it a quality piece, with the vintage vibe

[@marcziman0]

14060m, holes HEL. As vintage as you can get without being vintage and as modern as you can get without being modern.

[@TheRandomWatchDude]

Best of both worlds!

[@jdwxflyer]

I like all three iterations of the Sub. But I’d wear mine everyday. The 124060 is modern technology with spectacular accuracy and waterproofness. You forgot to mention, it’s also available on Chrono24, likely for 10-15% above msrp, which I consider a fair cost for not Having to prostrate yourself in front of the AD!

[@TheRandomWatchDude]

Yes about 10% over RRP isn't really a problem anymore is it. The trouble is that I've prostrated myself in front of my AD so much already that it would all be wasted if I dont wait for their call!

[@jdwxflyer]

@@TheRandomWatchDude I hear ya…I’m guilty myself!

[@markmazur3157]

Hi Mark. Love the vids - humorous, organic and interesting. I have a neo 16610 date - just love it. If you have a passion for the purist version, I’d suggest the 14060.

[@jimerinrose6235]

Man that’s a hard choice. I’ve had all three and currently have a mint 1971 5513 and a 124060 that I got last year after a 2 year wait.🤦🏻 It really depends how often you want to wear it. A everyday or very often watch I’d go with the two newer ones. You can wear them and forget about them. The older 5513 I’m always worried about the plastic crystal, the lume cracking, or damaging the watch. One day I was wearing it and shook my arm to make the watch slide down my wrist a little. Then I noticed the original seconds hand popped off and was sitting on the bottom of the dial I almost had a heart attack. 😬 I flipped the watch over on its crystal so the hands wouldn’t collide, damage the dial or mess up the original tritium. In those years they didn’t hack so I couldn’t stop the hands from moving by pulling out the crown. Any way a local watch maker fixed it for no charge but it makes you realize how fragile these 50+ year old watches are. With my new sub I’ve already done a bunch of dives but I feel better leaving the 5513 in the safe most of the time and maybe wear it out once in a while. That said the 5513 is probably the coolest watch of the three.

[@TheRandomWatchDude]

@jimerinrose6235 fascinating story, and you've got me thinking. I definitely want it as a daily so perhaps the 124060 or very late 14060M is the way to go?

[@jimerinrose6235]

@@TheRandomWatchDude I agree for a daily. You can’t go wrong with either one. Looking forward to seeing your new Sub…😉👍

[@java2233]

I own a 2010 ref. 16610LV, A Kermit. So the last of the 5 digit subs, and I love it, it wears so well. I also own a 2024 professional model . I think if you can get a mint 14060/ M box and papers you won’t regret it, still has great luminosity, solid end links and a fairly up to date movement. Yes the clasp and hollow bracelet on a pre 2010 sub is a little below par and needed improvement, but I do find the clasp does sit better on the wrist on the older sub were as the new and improved adjustable clasp is a bit bigger and I found that I removed then put back in links to get it to feel right, Maybe it’s just me. It would not put me off though . I think with in a few years a modern ref 124060 will be a little easier to get from ADs and pre owned price will drop a little as there are loads of new/unworn ones that are overpriced and not selling on the pre owned here in the UK. So you can pick one in the future. I can’t see how they could improve the model as it’s about perfect so it should remain unchanged apart from yearly price increases.

[@TheRandomWatchDude]

Thank you, and as you say, the latest iteration is so perfect that it probably wont change for another 10 years if not much longer. The 14060M is a solid vintage-vibe choice isn't it. I suppose i should be looking at this from the perspective of 'how will i feel about the watch in 10 years' time!? Will I wish I'd got the modern-at-the-time 124060

[@samnaomiking407]

I just been through this exact process. Finally decided on the 14060M 4 liner - just waiting for the one I want. Good luck with the decision

[@TheRandomWatchDude]

@samnaomiking407 there are some great ones for sale in Japan on Chrono24 with full B&P

[@samnaomiking407]

@@TheRandomWatchDude There's plenty on Chrono - I check everyday 😄I'm hoping one pops up in Australia. Save me GST and import duties. Eventually I'll pull the pin in Japan if nothings shows up.

[@TheRandomWatchDude]

@samnaomiking407 good luck. The market here is NZ is tiny to non-existent!

[@wuyeah1980]

I went 14060/14060M. No box and paper on mine. 5513 shouldn’t be anyone‘s first (unless you are super wealthy)cuz it is old and super precious so you won’t want to take beating. It is no longer a Beater and more money than I am willing to spend. Modern subs are truly nice watches but it doesn’t feel like vintage sub at all. No nostalgia for me and I am not willing to play the AD games. 14060M has nice balance with quality and price. I happen to bump into 14060 and if am not going to sell, box and paper no matter. A little price break for me is also nice.

[@leeevans8407]

Hi Mark, I’ve been wearing my 124060 everyday for exactly a month now I can honestly say that it’s the best watched I’ve ever owned build quality is amazing and the glide lock is a dream I would have preferred to have had a aluminium bezel insert but hey ho you can’t have everything, I’m down to 3 watches now my 124060 a bb58 and the new hesalite speedy, I could easily go down to one watch and be done and that would be the 124060 ( and my Apple Watch 😂 ) Hope to see you with one on your wrist soon !!!

[@TheRandomWatchDude]

Sub, Speedy and BB58 is a perfect trio isn't it? I would definitely call that 'job done'!

[@leeevans8407]

@@TheRandomWatchDude defiantly the perfect trio and Job done !

[@Boz999s]

Why not consider the 114060? I know it’s divisive with the case dimensions but it is the last of the 40mm case size and 20mm bracelet width……

[@TheRandomWatchDude]

Do you know what, and I haven't divulged this yet, but early on in my journey I actually had a 114060! Stunning watch, but stupidly and regrettably I sold it, although it seemed like a good idea at the time. That watch keeps coming back to haunt my dreams, and is the reason I know I must get another Sub. But that is the reason that I also can't get that specific reference again!

[@paulmedwell6064]

Hi there. I'm new and love your chanel. I've got a question if you could help me. Could you tell me how much the GMT 2 with jubilee bracelet weighs. ? Thanks

[@TheRandomWatchDude]

@paulmedwell6064 hello and thanks for the feedback. I don't know how much it weighs, but sure you can probably Google it and find out. Good luck!

[@Ten.to.one.handmade]

I’d like a matte 5513 too. Anything decent seems to be more like 25-30k nzd But my definition of decent is unpolished so the premium will be higher

[@TheRandomWatchDude]

The vintage Rolex world is a very scary place, and I'm not sure I can take the risk. Service dials, fake bezels etc. But yes, an unfettered 5513 is going to cost 25k plus isn't it!

[@RantAboutTime]

I bought the 14060m (4-line) in 2009 brand new. After 15 years, both the watch and myself grow old and become vintage…😅

[@TheRandomWatchDude]

Absolutely fantastic! I take my hat off to you. I think the watch I have that I will still own in 15 years time, that will grow old with me is the Left hand GMT.

[@derekbrettell8121]

Hi Mark, can i ask you for your opinion please. Im in a similar position as you. Im down to 3 watches, speedy, dj (blue) and rootbeer. I'd like to add a Submariner but i want to sell something rather just splurge more cash. Option 1 - sell the DJ and replace with the Submariner. Collection would be - speedy, Sub and GMT (all black dials) Option 2 - sell the Rootbeer (big hitter) and have a collection of speedy, dj and sub. Probably more balanced but the rootbeer is arguably the nicest watch and more unique than the others. All opinions welcome!

[@TheRandomWatchDude]

@derekbrettell8121 it's entirely down to personal taste, but I would sell the DJ and keep the root beer. The two tone GMT is a lovely watch and almost covers that dress watch space too, that the DJ would leave behind. A very difficult choice!

[@derekbrettell8121]

@TheRandomWatchDude thanks for your advice mate. The GMT and DJ are competing for weekend wear and the GMT wins. Thanks for getting back to me

[@GrumblingForesight]

Whats the size of ur DJ though? As long as u dont have a thing for 36mm oyster cased watches (i kinda do), I would offload the DJ and keep the Rootbeer.

[@derekbrettell8121]

@@GrumblingForesight it's 41 bud

[@GrumblingForesight]

@@derekbrettell8121 in that case, I’d ditch the DJ if I were u. But thats just me though

[@steveb2042]

Hi Mark, I had this dilemma a few years back. I already had a 116610LV and wanted another submariner. I made the decision to go for a 14610 but when I was looking found some of the Late 80's 5513's, with the while gold markers for similar prices. I ended up getting one of the last 5513's from 1989, a watch I love far more than the 116610LV. Having said all that, it seems to me that your eyes light up every time you talk about the 124610, I believe you said "a dog with two dicks"! If that is what you really want then that is what you should go for. I'd be tempted to try and wait for one at retail at an AD for a few months and then if nothing is happening go grey and pay the premium. You really can't go wrong with the three options but follow your heart!

[@TheRandomWatchDude]

Thanks for that! You're right that I do get more excited about the124060 than I do about the others. And yes, I should wait for the AD to call me.

[@chriselley2261]

Quite a pickle you’re in! Obviously you need all three. Start with the new one and add vintage and neo-vintage when a great example at a fair price presents itself. I have a similar affliction with the GMT. Have three now- meteorite Pepsi and all-black moderns, and Pepsi neo. Still itching for a Pepsi 1675 though!

[@TheRandomWatchDude]

Thanks Chris. I think I'm kidding myself that I can survive on just one watch, and like you, I should concentrate on building a small collection of belters!

[@chriselley2261]

@@TheRandomWatchDude For me the black ceramic GMT is my daily work watch - not quite a “beater” but I don’t stress over ordinary wear. Beyond that I only want my favorite of the various other Rolex models - Sub, Daytona, Yachtmaster, Day Date, etc. Also appreciate the non-Rolex classics such as the Navitimer, Speedy, and Cintree. My Achilles heel is the GMT. I could own half a dozen and still want more.

[@TheRandomWatchDude]

@@chriselley2261 Ahh yes the GMT affliction. Such a great model isn't it!

[@slavemi3018]

5:20 you forgot Christopher Lee's immortalized role was Count Dracula.

[@TheRandomWatchDude]

@slavemi3018 yes! That was before my time but quite right - his most famous role is as Dracula

[@richardhill2243]

It's quiet well documented that Roger Moore wore a submariner date 1680 as well as the 5513 in the man with the golden gun. It can be seen in many scenes with the date bubble. Also he never wore a Rolex in the spy who loved me but sported a Seiko digital watch. There are some promotional images from the film showing Moore wearing a GMT master whilst wearing his naval uniform.

[@TheRandomWatchDude]

Thank you, and yes you're quite right, it was Live and Let Die and The Man with Golden Gun where he wore the 5513, but by the 3rd film he was into Seiko and all sorts! I'm pretty sure Timothy Dalton wore the 14060 in both his films?

[@richardhill2243]

@@TheRandomWatchDude only in Licence to Kill!

[@TheRandomWatchDude]

@@richardhill2243 What did he wear in Living Daylights as I recall him looking at his Submariner, and there being a close-up of it at the start of the film when they're parachuting onto the Rock of Gibraltar?

[@davidcunningham7330]

I did just that - sold my Omega's, Tudor's, and Rolex's and purchased a 14060m 2008 Long F and put the rest of the money in the bank. I've decided I'm only going to wear one watch.

[@TheRandomWatchDude]

Congratulations! How does it feel?

[@davidcunningham7330]

@@TheRandomWatchDude I used to own the Starbucks Submariner and I ALWAYS knew it was there. The band may have been nicer, but it felt like it my arm always had some bulk on it. The 14060m, while the band is a bit more jangly, is so much more comfortable. And the face itself - omg, it's soooooo beautiful. You've seen the videos about this version - it's great! I actually prefer the non-ceramic bezel on the 14060m. And the 3130 movement may turn out to be more reliable than the 3230. You'll save several thousand and get, in my opinion, a much better watch!

[@TheRandomWatchDude]

@@davidcunningham7330 You're swaying me here! 😅😅

[@Andy-ys8sj]

Hey Mark I know this isn't on point, but I'm getting a Peter Blake full set, the guy I'm getting it off got it from Japan 12months ago, sent it to omega for a full service and replacement hands, crystal and a new bracelet still in the wrapping, he paid £1300 for the service, all the receipts. Can't wait, all the best Andrew

[@TheRandomWatchDude]

@Andy-ys8sj oh wow congratulations Andrew! That's a great acquisition, with all the hard work of waiting getting it serviced already done. Great job!

[@Charside]

A Yacht Master

[@TheRandomWatchDude]

Nice watch

[@maitrehg]

I prefer any Sub pre-ceramic and no date. The fat lugs and ceramic models don't speak to me. I have a Tudor BB41 Monochrome. Vintage look with today's quality.

[@TheRandomWatchDude]

@@maitrehg The new BB is a lovely watch, and I agree it's the best of both worlds 🌎

[@Sabre-wd5hn]

Wait and get the new. If it doesn't scratch the itch sell and get the neovintage. The neovintage is probably the best fit anyway.......

[@TheRandomWatchDude]

Wisdom right there! Thanks!

[@Tnarg-the-clown]

I would wait a year, i have a feeling the USA dollar is going tank next year, might be able to get a better price

[@TheRandomWatchDude]

That's a good point. Election in the US plus a drop in the NZ OCR combined could easily see a healthy swing my way.

[@TheRandomWatchDude]

@ozicryptoG with a watch like that, caring what other people think is the last thing on your mind! I love it too

[@JohnBowman-ut4dz]

@ozicryptoG I would love to get the new gold deepsea have not asked the ad yet how hard have they told you it is going to be to get it from your ad ? Thanks John.

[@darios.3114]

Hi Mark, love your content. I got the call from my ad last year(well, they actually whatsapped me) and bought the 124060. It's a one and done for me. It just does everthing perfectly and feels solid. I totally recommend it.

[@TheRandomWatchDude]

Oh wow congratulations! That must have a very surreal experience!

[@keithburford8589]

Patience you must have my young Padawan . You may remember from the previous video that its pre ceramic for myself and going by this video its the way to go for you. Ok if , bloody big if , your AD called you tomorrow and you ran in 'like a dog with two dicks ' you would be walking out with a piece with yes a better updated movement and bracelet ( lets face it Rolex took an eternity to crack a half decent bracelet ) but would it really have scratched your itch with that ruddy awful ceramic bezel to boot ha ha. Patience you must have !!.

[@TheRandomWatchDude]

@keithburford8589 The Master has Spoken! Yep the pre-ceramic is without doubt an all round itch scratcher as it covers that vintage vibe as well as not being too flashy.

[@psgp298]

ALL of them are boring as hell. Go and buy a watch with CHARACTER not this generic pseudo-luxury fashion Rolex. I wouldn't wear one for free.

[@TheRandomWatchDude]

So you think a 5513 has no character? What watch do you define as having character? I'd genuinely like to know, so I can see what you mean.

[@sinjinadams2862]

I know, I know, I know. What I'm going to say is mean and I shouldn't say it but I am HaHa! Holy crap dude, you're only 50 years old?! I thought for sure you were my age which is 63! Collecting watches is obviously stressing you out way too much and prematurely aging you. You need to get rid of all your watches now and relax! 😁😁😁😁

[@TheRandomWatchDude]

Haha so you know what you're saying is mean, but you're saying it anyway. That tells me you are a complete drop kick in life. 63 years old and with the brain of a playground bully!

[@Leftystrat]

116600 the last true 40 mm seadweller 2014 - 2017 worth a thought🧐 subs chunky brother

[@TheRandomWatchDude]

@Leftystrat the SD is a consideration for sure, but a Sub is a Sub and I would not be fully satisfied unless I had that

[@Leftystrat]

@@TheRandomWatchDude Starbucks I would own , very comfy and the green is imho better than the previous model, check both out!

[@Leftystrat]

Plus anti reflective coating will help with your kayaking . Brought up in kohimarama I know the glare there is shocking😁