Rolex Bubble
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Rolex Explorer II
Rolex Explorer
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Rolex Explorer
The Rolex Explorer launched in 1953 to celebrate the achievement of Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay reaching the summit of Mount Everest. Initially released as a single watch ref: 6350, the first Explorer came with a self-winding chronometer-certified movement housed in a stainless steel case with matching Oyster bracelet.
This watch was followed by Explorer ref: 6610, which updated the movement but kept the same case, dial and hand treatment. It wasn’t until the launch of ref: 1016 in 1963 that the watch received its first major update. This version introduced the style elements which have become synonymous with the Explorer including the distinctive 3-6-9 dial configuration and the triangular marker at twelve-o-clock.
Two versions of the Rolex Explorer are available:
Explorer I
The Rolex Explorer I ref: 14270 was launched at the Basel Fair in 1989. The watch takes inspiration from the original ref: 6350 with its simple elegant design. clean bezel, unadorned black dial with 3-6-9 quarter-hour markers and the trademark triangular marker at twelve-o-clock.
The Explorer I has a relatively small case size for a modern Rolex. This makes it a popular choice for both men and women. Pre 2010 ref: 14270 models have a case size of just 36mm. In 2010 ref: 214270 was released which updated the movement to the latest 3032 calibre and increased the case size to 39mm.
Explorer II
The Explorer II ref: 1655 was released in 1971. This watch came with a date indicator at 3-o-clock and a larger fixed bezel which housed an additional 24-hour indicator. True to the watch's name, this feature was designed to aid professional cavers who need reliable temporal orientation independent of the outside world.
The original watch featured a Cal. 1575GMT movement and 39mm case. This was increased to 40mm in 1985 when the watch gained a Cal. 16550 movement. An updated Cal. 3085 movement was introduced in 1989, but the case and dial remained unchanged. The current iteration of the watch ref: 216570 was launched in 2011 and uses a modern Cal. 3187 movement. This version also introduced a choice of black or white dials.
The Explorer is the embodiment of man's need for achievement.
See more Rolex watches. Contact us for details if you have a Rolex to sell.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Explorer was designed as a robust tool watch, famously linked to the first successful ascent of Mount Everest. Its simple design, durability, and legibility make it an iconic Rolex model.
The Explorer is known for its toughness, with a waterproof Oyster case, scratch-resistant sapphire crystal, and reliable automatic movement.
Absolutely. The Explorer was built as an everyday tool watch, making it versatile, durable, and suitable for daily wear.
Pre-owned Explorers give you access to a wider choice of references, including vintage and discontinued models, without waiting lists and often at better value than buying new.
The Rolex Explorer has been produced in different sizes, most commonly 36mm, 39mm, and 40mm. Purists often consider 36mm to be the classic Explorer size, while 39mm and 40mm references are perfect for those looking for a little more wrist presence.
Yes. Every Explorer we sell is fully inspected by our Rolex specialists, including a thorough assessment of the case, movement, serial numbers, and more, to guarantee authenticity.
Yes. All Explorers come with a 12-month movement warranty. If the watch is still under Rolex’s 5-year manufacturer warranty, the remaining coverage is also included.
We ship all Explorers by insured Royal Mail Special Delivery, with next-day delivery before 1pm to most UK addresses, Monday to Saturday.
The Explorer has strong collector demand and a long history, which helps it hold value well. Certain vintage and rare references can also appreciate significantly over time.
A genuine Explorer will have correct engravings, precise finishing, and the appropriate movement for its reference. All Explorers sold by Watches.co.uk are verified authentic by our experts.
