The Rolex Explorer was presented in 1953, the year Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay reached the summit of Everest wearing Oyster Perpetual watches. Its black dial with oversized 3, 6 and 9 numerals is designed for one thing only: to stay legible in extreme conditions. It is the most stripped-back design in the collection, and one of the most copied.
The model returned to its historic 36 mm proportions in 2021 with reference 124270, before Rolex added a 40 mm version in 2023. The Explorer II, for its part, adds an orange 24 hour hand and a fixed graduated bezel, designed for cave explorers. Every piece sold by Francine Joaillerie is authenticated and guaranteed.
| Reference | Model | Diameter |
|---|---|---|
| 124270 | Explorer, steel | 36 mm |
| 224270 | Explorer, steel | 40 mm |
| 124273 | Explorer, yellow Rolesor | 36 mm |
| 226570 | Explorer II, black or white dial | 42 mm |
The white dial Explorer II, nicknamed the Polar, is the more sought after of the two versions. The contrast between the white lacquer, the black-ringed hour markers and the orange hand makes it instantly recognisable, and it is in high demand on the pre-owned market.
The 36 mm matches the original proportions and is worn in a very classic way, by men and women alike. The 40 mm answers the demand of those who found the model too discreet.
It distinguishes day from night, which is essential underground or in polar regions, and also allows a second time zone to be read with the graduated bezel.
It remains one of the most reasonable entry points into the professional range, while offering the same Oyster case and the same latest generation calibres.
