The Rolex Explorer is a favorite among watch enthusiasts and collectors for its understated design and technical efficiency. Unlike other Rolex models, the Explorer has never had superfluous aesthetic embellishments, making it a versatile watch suitable for various occasions.
The Explorer’s iconic design, including the 369 and triangle markers at 12, was introduced in 1959 with the reference 6610.
The Rolex Explorer was created after Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay took a Rolex Oyster Perpetual with them on their successful Mount Everest expedition in 1953.
Other notable cultural milestones for the timepiece would be Ian Flemming’s famous James Bond novels and the acclaimed TV show Mad Men where the protagonist Don Draper wears an Explorer.
Rolex’s value retention and instant liquidity make it a desirable commodity and a safety net in difficult situations.
The Explorer is considered the archetype of an everyday watch and sets the standard for other brands.
Explorer’s Cultural Impact
- The Explorer 1016 had one of the longest-running lifespans with minimal upgrades and is highly sought after by collectors.
- The watch is considered “the watch of Mount Everest” mainly due to genius marketing moves by Rolex in the 1950s
- The Rolex Explorer is considered the real Bond watch due to the author Ian Fleming’s personal preference and literary references. While Omega might have snatched the James Bond marketing in modern times, there’s a wide consensus that the Explorer is the authentic Bond watch.
- The Explorer was featured in the acclaimed TV show Madmen, worn by the main character Don Draper, and was also showcased in a Mad Men exhibition at the Museum of the Moving Image in Queens, New York.
- The Explorer 1016, introduced in 1969, was the longest-produced Explorer and was worn by many celebrities and style icons, including Ian Flemming. Later models have been worm by icons like Brad Pitt for Rolex Magazine & Jennifer Connelly in Top Gun Maverick.
Rolex Explorer History
The Explorer 1016, introduced in 1969, was the longest-produced Explorer and was worn by many celebrities and style icons, including James Bond creator Ian Fleming.
The 14270 series, introduced in 1989, which featured Swiss Made on the dial and the adoption of Superluminova for the luminous compound.
In 2001, the 14270 was replaced by the 114270, which featured the upgraded caliber 3130 movement with a parachrom hairspring and micro stellar balance wheel.
The biggest change to the Explorer came in 2010 with the introduction of the 39mm diameter reference 214270, which was later updated with larger hands in 2011.
The larger Explorers were discontinued in 2020, later replaced with the 40mm 224270.
In 2021, Rolex released the controversial two-tone Explorer, which for the first time strayed far from the original design concept. 124270 was released at this time as well, being almost visually identical to 114270 with only minor changes.
Rolex Explorer 124270 Updates
- The Rolex Explorer 124270 features several upgrades over previous models, including the in-house caliber 3230 movement with improved precision, resistance to shock and magnetic fields, and a 70-hour power reserve.
- The dial has been updated with slightly larger and sharper white gold applied markers with Chromalight luminescence, improving low-light visibility.
- The size has been slightly decreased, with a 1mm reduction in diameter and overall length, making it more comfortable to wear on smaller wrists.
- The bracelet has been updated with a smaller solid end link and a more user-friendly EasyLink extendable clasp.
Modern Explorer in Short
The modern Explorer 124270 has stayed true to its original tool roots while incorporating upgrades such as applied markers, Superluminova, and improved movements.
The Explorer’s unassuming design and technical efficiency make it a timeless classic that stands the test of time.
- The Rolex Explorer is a classic watch that stays true to the brand’s original design philosophy.
- It has a 36mm case, which is a classic size for a Rolex.
- The Explorer is considered the archetype of an everyday watch and sets the standard for other brands.
Pricing and Comparison
- The retail price of the Explorer 124270 is $7,250, while the grey market value is around $9,000.
- The 124270 is the most realized Explorer version yet, but compared to 114270 one could argue it is overpriced and not worth the upgrade from previous model if one already owns this.
Conclusion
The Rolex Explorer is the perfect do-it-all watch. The design and build quality has already stood the test of time and Rolex’s value retention and instant liquidity make it a desirable commodity – even an investment if you get a good deal.
The understated design and 36mm size makes the Explorer a true chameleon. Wear it to the beach, the club, the office or the black tie event and it won’t look misplaced.
For us, the Explorer is a no-brainer.