Rolex Explorer

Rolex Explorer Watches

The Rolex Explorer II was introduced in the early 70's and was never widely distributed or popular until 1991. The original model was produced until the next generation model was released in 1985. The Explorer II uses the same movement as the GMT-II models and makes use of a secondary 24-hour hand that rotates once every day. The engraved steel bezel is stationary and was originally designed for speleologists (cave explorers) who can have a hard time determining if it is am or pm. The 40mm 16570 had a final retail of $6,325. A new 42mm version with an orange hour hand (216570) was announced at BaselWorld in March 2011, and released to the public later that fall. It currently retails for $8,100 and has a higher demand than the supply can provide.
The original Explorer (1) was introduced in 1954, and has had one look through-out its life; a black dial with Arabic numbers at 3', 6' and 9', no date, smooth bezel, Oyster bracelet, and a stainless steel 36mm case. Except for the updates that all Rolex watches have received, it remained essentially the same watch. In Fall 2010, Rolex replaced their 14270 classic 36mm with the larger 39mm 214270 which retails at $6,550 which houses a unique Rolex 3132 caliber.