The Rolex Oyster Perpetual Explorer is arguably the most famous of all Rolex models. Famous because the Explorer pays homage to famous mountaineers, Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay for the first successful ascent of Mount Everest in 1953. It was actually during their expedition that the team wore and tested the Oyster Perpetual Chronometer.
To celebrate that summit, Rolex launched the Explorer that same year as “the ultimate expedition and mountaineering watch”. In other words, a watch that delivers under extreme conditions, temperatures and provides precision.
Subsequently, the Explorer has been updated. The latest is the Explorer model, released in 2016.
So, what else is there to know?
Read this Rolex Explorer review to learn about the 214270’s features.
Explorer as defined by Rolex
ex • plor • er
- A timepiece born in 1953 from the first successful ascent of Mount Everest.
- Hewn from a block of 904L stainless steel to withstand extreme conditions.
- The characteristic 3-6-9 hour markers ensure easy reading of the time.
- Chromalight hands and hour markers glow in the dark for up to twice as long as standard luminescent materials.
- Its self-winding Rolex movement delivers ultimate precision and reliability.
- Passed Swiss Official Chronometer Testing Institute (COSC) tests.
- The embodiment of man’s irrepressible need for achievement.
- The Rolex Way.
Key Features of the Rolex Explorer
- Sapphire crystal glass
- Stainless steel case
- automatic movement powered by Calibre 3132
- Fixed dome stainless steel bezel
- Monobloc middle case
- Screw-down case back
- Winding crown
Other features that come in handy
- Black dial
- Weighs 4.8 ounces with all links
- Officially certified Swiss chronometer
- High-performance Paraflex shock absorbers
- Folding Oysterlock safety clasp with Easylink 5 mm comfort extension link
- Waterproof to 100 meters / 330 feet
Explorer (I) and Explorer II
The Explorer 214270, last updated 2016, is sometimes referred to as the Explorer I. In addition, there is only one version of the Explorer, which is shown below.
On the other hand, the Explorer II model, as shown below, has two versions of dials. Aesthetically, they are different in size, dial, and bezel. While we aren’t reviewing the Explorer II today, it was borne out of the same sense of exploration.
Rolex watches are considered a “Lifetime” watch. That is to say, the watch is worth the investment. The features are what make the watch functional for everyday use. For instance, these include features such as the Oystersteel watchband which gives the watch some weight. Similarly, the double locking mechanism along with the half-link adjustment within the buckle is especially nice. Finally, another nice detail is the Rolex logo imprinted all along the edge of the inside of the front of the watch case.
Above all, the watch diameter makes it an attractive watch for any gender.
As one reviewer commented, “No bling, just class.”
Video Review – Explorer
Rolex Explorer Men’s Watch Review and Opinion
About the Brand
“Look in all the dictionaries, there is no word for what we do. It’s not ‘tradition’, though our craft is timeless. ‘Limitless’ is too limiting. ‘Enduring’ is not enduring enough. ‘Innovation’ can only begin to describe it. We sculpt, paint and explore. But explorers, sculptors, and painters we are not. This is the only thing we make. The only thing we will ever make. There is no word for what we do. There’s only a way. The Rolex Way.”
Rolex
The history of Rolex and Swiss watchmaking are totally intertwined. Because Rolex is a trailblazer in the development of wristwatches, the brand is at the birth of numerous major watchmaking breakthroughs and has registered over 400 patents in the journey of its lifetime. Moreover, Rolex develops, and produces internally all the essential parts of its watches, from the casting of the gold alloys to the machining, crafting, assembly and finishing of the movement, case, dial, and bracelet.
Each Rolex watch undergoes extreme testing to ensure that it lives up to high expectations. As a result, Rolex watches have proven themselves since the beginning in the most extreme conditions imaginable –from the deepest oceans to the highest mountains, in the air, and on the race track.
Perpetual Oyster
Rolex invented the Oyster case in 1926, and consequently, it became a pivotal part of Rolex history and a key feature of its watches. Its name describes the case’s ability to shut like an oyster shell and survive underwater. This is due to two major : a screw-down back and bezel and a screw-down waterproof winding crown.
Whole new human pursuits have happened because of the Oyster case. For example, the Oyster case was put to a real-life test in 1927 when a young sportswoman named Mercedes Gleitze swam the English Channel wearing a Rolex Oyster. Her watch was fully functional after she spent ten plus hours in cold water, solidifying Rolex’s historic underwater mastery.
Summary
To sum it up, the Explorer, like all Rolex watches, is a work of art and fine craftmanship. But, besides that, the Explorer is an iconic watch for many reasons, concept, precision, and its aesthetic simplicity.
In addition, the Explorer as compared to other Rolex models is priced at MSRP $6,550, making it more attainable for everyday explorers.
Lastly, the Explorer exemplifies the exclusive relationship that has long been synonymous of Rolex and exploration. Certainly, exploration is what makes us discover new friends, places, and landscapes. And we owe it to those who walked before us. Aren’t we all just explorers?
