Rolex Explorer: models, list price, features, waiting time

The models in the Rolex Explorer collection are the result of the company’s close association with the exploration and discovery of the world. On the wrists of pioneers, the watches are the perfect companions for areas where few people dare to go. The real world serves as a testing ground for these watches by equipping mountain, polar and speleological expeditions for many years. Bold explorers, mountaineers and scientists test the reliability and performance of Explorer watches and put them to the test.

“Made for the world of exploration and discovery” (Source: Rolex)

Explorer I and II: design, features, prices

Since the 1930s, Rolex has supplied Oyster wristwatches to many expeditions. The feedback of the expedition participants is evaluated after a trip. The Oyster Perpetual models Explorer and Explorer II are included and improved under the category “Professional”. The knowledge gained from the Everest expedition and other experience reports finally led Rolex to launch the watches in 1953. Some time later, the model was further enhanced by an extremely durable case and a dial that is easy to read even in adverse environmental conditions. Over the years, many researchers, mountaineers and scientists have become Rolex brand ambassadors. They broke records with the Explorer or Explorer II, tested their endurance and put their courage to the test.

Design: Dial, Chromalight, Oystersteel

The Rolex Explorer range of watches are function watches, designed to display the time in all situations. Despite the simple design, the watches have a very legible black dial with large indices and the typical numbers 3, 6 and 9. Even at night or in lightless places, the Explorer can be relied upon. Its Chromalight hands and indices are coated with a blue, long afterglow luminous material and ensure optimum readability even in the dark. With the introduction of the Explorer II in 1971, the successor model continues the privileged relationship that links Rolex and the world of exploration and discovery. The Explorer II has a date display, an additional orange 24-hour hand and a 24-hour graduated bezel that allows day and night to be clearly distinguished.

Features: Durable, waterproof, multifunctional

The Explorer series is known to withstand extreme conditions. In addition there are some helpful features like: An additional arrow-shaped 24-hour hand on the Explorer II takes one day to circle around the dial and marks the time on the engraved fixed bezel. It can show a second time zone or indicate the time in 24-hour intervals.

The Explorer and Explorer II models are made of Oystersteel stainless steel. The stainless steel specially developed by Rolex belongs to the “904L stainless steel” grade – an alloy that is mostly used in high technology applications such as the chemical industry. Stainless steel Oystersteel is extremely durable, has an exceptional shine after polishing and retains this even under extreme conditions.

The Explorer models are waterproof: the Twinlock winding crownI is equipped with a double sealing system consisting of two seals, one inside the tube and the other in the winding crown. This system is used in most of the watches in the Oyster Perpetual collection, which are guaranteed to be water-resistant to a depth of 100 meters.

Models: Explorer & Explorer II

The two successful models Explorer and its successor Explorer II differ in a few essential features. First of all: the price. While the Explorer starts at 5900 Euro, its successor model is already at 7600 Euro.

Explorer, Oyster. 39 mm, stainless steel Oystersteel

• list price: 5950 Euro
• Case: Oyster case, monoblock middle section, screwed case back and screwed twinlock winding crown with double sealing system
• diameter: 39 mm
• Lunette: Polished
• Watch crystal: scratch-resistant sapphire crystal
• Clockwork: Mechanical perpetual movement, self-winding mechanism
• Bracelet: Oyster, three rows, flat elements, Oysterlock safety folding clasp with comfortable 5 mm-Easylink extension
• Accuracy: -2/+2 seconds per day, measured after the movement has been put in place
• Oscillator: Paramagnetic blue parachrome spiral
• Winding: self-winding mechanism, winding in both directions, perpetual rotor

Role Explorer 214270

The Rolex Explorer is both a rugged and iconic sports watch whose heritage dates back to 1953. This current production model is updated with the latest and greatest technology and features features that Rolex has ever offered in an Explorer watch.

Explorer II: price, properties, material, functions

• list price: 7600 Euro
• Body: Oyster, 42 mm, stainless steel Oystersteel OYSTER-BODY: monoblock center section, screwed case back and screwed twinlock winding crown with double sealing system
• Diameter: 42 mm MATERIAL: stainless steel Oystersteel
• Lunette: Fixed bezel with 24-hour graduation
• Watch crystal: Scratch-resistant sapphire crystal, cyclopupe for magnifying the date
• Clockwork: Mechanical perpetual movement, self-winding mechanism
• Bracelet: Oyster, three rows, flat elements, stainless steel Oystersteel, Oysterlock safety folding clasp with comfortable 5mm-Easylink extension
• Accuracy: -2/+2 seconds per day, measured after the movement has been put in place
• Oscillator: Paramagnetic blue parachrome spiral
• Winding: self-winding mechanism, winding in both directions, perpetual rotor
• Functions:  Center hands for hours, minutes and seconds. 24-hour display. Simultaneous display of a second time zone by the rapidly and independently adjustable hour hand. Automatic date change. Stop-second for precise setting of the time

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Rolex Explorer II 16570

The Rolex Explorer II 16570 is such an underrated model that it usually doesn’t immediately come to mind when you think of Rolex. However, it is becoming increasingly clear that the Explorer II will be a clear future classic.  A great sports model with a lot of character.

The Rolex Explorer Reference

Whether in the larger world of watches or just in connection with Rolex, the Explorer is a well-known quantity. It has a long tradition, is straightforward, and even among its beloved siblings it is an icon. The Explorer is a pure unit of the Rolex sports watch. Its timeline makes it a category defining model, and although the Explorer has evolved over the last half century, its core formula is everyday versatility, thoughtful simplicity and unwavering reliability. This is true from its mountaintop roots to several fun and collectable references that have evolved over the decades.

Which Rolex Explorer is right for me? 36mm or 39mm

In the video you can get advice on which size of the Explorer is suitable for you and your needs. All advantages and disadvantages of the modern Rolex Explorers, as well as a comparison of the portability of the 36 mm Explorer with the 39 mm Explorer are shown here.