Featured Finds: The Last Pre-ceramic Rolex Submariner a Gleaming Rolex Day-Date, & a Yacht-Master Sailing under the Radar

Featured Finds: The Last Pre-ceramic Rolex Submariner, a Gleaming Rolex Day-Date, & a Yacht-Master Sailing under the Radar
March 18, 2024 5 min read
Featured Finds: The Last Pre-ceramic Rolex Submariner, a Gleaming Rolex Day-Date, & a Yacht-Master Sailing under the Radar

Each week we exclusively present our subscribers with a selection of newly arrived and special watches, detailing what makes these timepieces collector worthy.

The Final Chapter of Pre-ceramic Excellence - The Rolex No-Date Submariner Ref. 14060M

For decades, the Rolex Submariner has been the quintessential dive watch. Its core design has stayed essentially the same, cementing it as the benchmark for all other diving watches. The ref. 14060M carries on that legacy, but it also represents the final version with the iconic aluminum bezel insert that started with the very first Submariner in 1953. It strikes the perfect balance between vintage style and modern robustness- a timeless look that just gets better with age.

The classic two-line dial design takes us back to when tool watches were essential pieces of gear you could rely on. The aluminum bezel insert, sapphire crystal, streamlined lugs, and drilled lug holes blend perfectly with the tough-yet-lightweight Oyster bracelet. Every detail has a purpose in terms of both form and function. Wearing it feels as broken-in and comfortable as your favorite pair of jeans, while still looking sharp.

The ref. 14060M is equipped with the caliber 3130, a significant improvement over the caliber 3000 featured in its predecessor, the ref. 14060. This upgrade justifies the 'M' in the reference number, indicating it's 'Modified.' Additionally, it boasts a depth rating of 300 meters (about 984.25 ft) of water resistance, far surpassing the needs of deep-sea scuba diving or leisurely poolside relaxation.

As the last of the aluminum bezel insert Submariners before the ceramic bezels took over, this watch holds a special place with us. It hearkens back to simpler times, capturing the essence of an iconic, no-frills dive watch design from Rolex's legendary professional line.


Shop the Rolex Submariner 14060M to add this watch to your collection

Gleaming Brilliance, a Jeweler's Masterpiece - The Rolex Day-Date 36 Ref. 18238

Have you ever encountered a Rolex Day-Date ref. 18238 dial as unique as this? Crafted by Rolex’s master jeweler, this unique dial features a pave of diamonds in the center designed to resemble cobblestones, drawing inspiration directly from their natural form. Each diamond, secured by yellow gold, creates a captivating dance of light that catches the eye and sparkles with every movement.

Around the perimeter, a string of diamonds frames the dial, serving a functional purpose by marking the minutes between each hour marker. Nestled between the diamond settings, mother of pearl encircles yellow gold roman hour markers, adding balance and contrast to the design. Every intricate detail meticulously crafted by hand, requiring exceptional skill and expertise.

The Rolex Day-Date 18238 is one of our most sought-after timepieces, and we are proud to offer such a rare piece of industrial design and craftsmanship. This timepiece is not only a bold statement but also a true work of art.

Shop the Rolex Day-Date 36 18238 to add this watch to your collection

An Overlooked Gem, Sailing under the Radar - The Rolex Yacht-Master 35 Ref. 168622

The Rolex Yacht-Master was originally conceived as the brand’s luxurious sport watch, seamlessly blending refined elegance with rugged utility. A direct descendent of the iconic Submariner, the Yacht-Master is purposefully crafted for sailing, but it distinguishes itself by emphasizing refinement over purely utilitarian functionality. This mid-sized 35mm variant embodies this fusion, crafted from a combination of platinum and steel - a proprietary alloy Rolex refers to as “Rolesium”.

The dial features a textured, grainy platinum finish that comes alive under light, revealing its intricate beauty. The functional bi-directional bezel, also crafted from platinum, features raised, glossy numerals set against a similarly textured, grainy backdrop. However, what truly sets this watch apart and lends it a distinctive appeal is the brightly colored red second hand and the Yacht-Master branding in vibrant red, offering a striking contrast to the otherwise monochromatic color scheme. The Oyster case features polished lugs and is complemented by the classic Oyster bracelet with polished center links, both elements accentuating the watch's inherent elegance.

In its relatively brief existence, the Rolex Yacht-Master has solidified its status as a future classic timepiece. Pioneering a proprietary platinum and steel alloy, the Yacht-Master achieves an understated yet refined luster. This distinctively elegant yet robust watch is a compelling addition to any timepiece collection, appealing especially to those who yearn for the open water.

Shop the Rolex Yacht-Master 35 168622 to add this watch to your collection

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