First Rolex: Submariner 14060 vs Explorer 214270 mk1

[jamesnyc]

Hey TRF

I'm looking to finally purchase my first Rolex and after research and personal deliberation am looking for some feedback from the pros.

I'm a fairly laid back guy who is looking for an understated look with versatility, durability & longevity from my first Rolex. It's coming at a time of personal achievement and it's something I'd like to keep with me for a long period of my life as a day to day watch which can be passed along with a story.

I'm a recreational diver and would like to dive with my watch as well as feel comfortable with it in the board room or formal function. I feel like a bracelet'd 214270 (I like the solid white gold numerals, not a fan of the lume'd in the newer model) achieves this but am wary of diving with it. The 14060, I feel, has a very balanced & classic dial, can dress down nicely on a NATO and holds its own on the bracelet with more formal attire.

The only drawback thought to the Sub is how common it is.

Perhaps this is a function vs perception argument...I can't see myself diving beyond 50m but...who knows. Good thoughts? Bad jokes? All welcome :)

[doramas]

Neither one nor the other. I was running down the street.
16570 Explorer ll

[steveng01]

I would and did pick 214270 as my first Rolex. Luckily I did because I bought it in 2012 and at that time I didn't know Rolex would reproduce the sea dweller in 2014. If I picked 114060 in the first place, I would probably stuck with two similar watches. Plus WG 369 214270 has seized production. Get it now before all the stocks got cleaned up.

I am currently looking for a pre-owned 16613 dated between 2005-2008, the year Rolex started to add engraved number under the crystal. It takes time to find one!

[scruffydog79]

Sub ND is a little common, but alternatively may I suggest the SD.

A bit heavier, a bit bigger and has more wrist presence

[vintagehartmann]

Both are great choices!

What has been your experience with trying them out on your wrist?

The 14060 looks great though I worry about the bezel popping off, or sand getting inside the bezel. The explorer has less moving parts to worry about, and I feel it can dress up or down better.

[steveng01]

Originally Posted by scruffydog79

Sub ND is a little common, but alternatively may I suggest the SD.

A bit heavier, a bit bigger and has more wrist presence

Get 214270 before stock is gone and then the SD.

[jamesnyc]

Originally Posted by steveng01

Get 214270 before stock is gone and then the SD.

I had been considering the SD as I like the added date function and am not a fan of cyclops. I'll have to try on the wrist, but this may be the perfect solution!

Thanks all!

[Xerxes77]

Sub IMO