Introduction
Inspired by the first-ever successful summit of Mount Everest by Sir Edmund Hillary and his Sherpa Tenzing Norgay, who wore a Rolex Oyster Perpetual, the Rolex Explorer has long been Rolex's ultimate adventure watch. Constructed entirely from Rolex's 904L steel, the Explorer's robust design ensures that it can always battle the elements. Featuring some of Rolex's most capable movements and a rich heritage to boot, the Explorer is another display of their timeless design as this icon of watchmaking has remained virtually untouched in its aesthetic since its inception. Identifiable by its signature 3-6-9 glossy black dial, a smooth stainless steel bezel, and entirely satin-brushed stainless steel case and bracelet, the Rolex Explorer has become renowned for its understated class, sporty elegance, and capable construction.
Loupe This Scorecard
Grade
M 8.5
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Service Card from Central Watch
Est. value range
$4,000 – $6,000
The Details
Brand
Rolex
Dimensions
36mm
Model
Explorer I
Movement
Automatic cal. 3000
Reference
14270
Bracelet
Stainless steel Oyster bracelet
Year
1993
Condition
Very good
Material
Stainless steel
Included
Watch, service card from central watch and Rolex service pouch
Dial Color
Black
THE DIAL
By far the Explorer's most significant design element is its black 3-6-9 dial. Here on the ref. 14270 all of the dial furniture is made from 18k white gold in a move to prevent corrosion or rust appearing on the applied indices, Arabic numerals or hands.
THE CONSTRUCTION
The most modern of all neo-vintage Explorer references, the ref. 14270 combines the charm of hollow center links and hollow endlinks with the modern creature comfort of a sapphire crystal to create a robust timepiece that is as charming as the first Explorer reference from almost 70 years ago.
TIMING MACHINE READOUT
This reading was taken (crown down) with a ONEOF Accuracy Boutique Edition timing machine at time of cataloging. It is provided as a courtesy only, and shall not be construed as a warranty or guarantee of any kind. Please refer to our terms and conditions of sale for more information.
Condition
Watch is in very good overall condition. Case exhibits some surface wear, and signs of previous polishing. There are marks and scratches along the polished bezel and on the case lugs. Original tritium dial in excellent condition, with matching hands. Crystal has the laser etched coronet at 6, having been replaced at a previous service. Watch comes on an oyster band with 11 links total, 1 of which is removable. Band exhibits light stretch.
Our Perspective
The archetypal neo-vintage Rolex Explorer, the ref. 14270 combines the old-time feel of a vintage Rolex with some of our modern creature comforts in a wonderful celebration of what makes the Explorer such a beautiful and important watch - an unwavering design and a storied heritage.
Justin Gruenberg
Co-founder
