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
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Guarantee Certificate, later Box Set
Est. value range
$4,000 – $6,000
The Details
Brand
Rolex
Dimensions
36mm
Model
Explorer
Movement
Automatic cal. 3000
Reference
14270
Bracelet
Stainless steel Oyster bracelet
Year
1993
Condition
Very good
Material
Stainless steel
Included
Watch, Guarantee Certificate, later Box Set
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
The watch is in overall very good condition. The stainless steel case shows some scratches and nicks, particularly on the polished bezel. The case back has additional scratches and marks. The black dial and Mercedes hands are near-mint. The solid link Oyster bracelet shows some scuffs and moderate play between the links. The bracelet currently fits a 6 3/4” wrist, and is fitted with 10 links, 2 of which are removable. Two additional links are included. The watch comes with its original papers, and translation booklet as well a box set from a slightly later era.
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
