Rolex Explorer Watches
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Rolex Explorer watches are testament to the brand's deep ties to exploration. Launched in 1953, the Explorer stands as Rolex's original sports watch and remains the longest-standing tool watch still in production today.
Over the years, the Explorer collection has expanded to encompass two distinct watch families - the Explorer I, designed for conquering peaks, and the Explorer II, tailored for delving into the depths of caves.
Built to last and highly legible, the Rolex Explorer is the preferred choice for individuals seeking durable and dependable timepieces that effortlessly complement any occasion.
Over the years, the Explorer collection has expanded to encompass two distinct watch families - the Explorer I, designed for conquering peaks, and the Explorer II, tailored for delving into the depths of caves.
Built to last and highly legible, the Rolex Explorer is the preferred choice for individuals seeking durable and dependable timepieces that effortlessly complement any occasion.
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Rolex Explorer II Steel Polar White Dial Mens Watch 16570
Stock Number: 80704
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Rolex Explorer II Steel Parachrom Polar White Dial Mens Watch 16570 Box Card
Stock Number: 80473
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Rolex Explorer II Steel Parachrom Polar White Dial Mens Watch 16570 Box Card
Stock Number: 80255
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Rolex Explorer II Steel Polar White Dial Mens Watch 16570 Box Papers
Stock Number: 80033
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Rolex Explorer II Steel Parachrom Polar White Dial Mens Watch 16570
Stock Number: 80155
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Rolex Explorer II 42 Steel Black Dial Mens Watch 226570 Box Card
Stock Number: 79315
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Rolex Explorer II Steel Polar White Dial Mens Watch 16570 Box Papers
Stock Number: 79542
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Rolex Explorer II Steel Parachrom Black Dial Mens Watch 16570 Box Card
Stock Number: 79593
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Rolex Explorer Overview
The Rolex Explorer stands as a timeless tribute to the resilience of humanity and the thrill of exploration. Inspired by Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay's historic ascent of Mount Everest with their trusted Rolex timepieces in 1953, the Explorer has established itself as a symbol of precision and dependability.
Comprising two distinct watch families within the Rolex catalog, the Explorer collection features the Rolex Explorer I and Rolex Explorer II. Crafted with adventurers in mind, both models are self-winding timepieces with a water resistance of up to 100m, yet they each possess unique characteristics.
The Rolex Explorer I exudes a minimalist charm, bridging the gap between a sports and dress watch. On the other hand, the Rolex Explorer II exudes a more pronounced sporty aesthetic with a larger case, enhanced markers and luminescent plots, a 24-hour bezel, and a vibrant 24-hour hand. Today, the Rolex Explorer collection remains the preferred choice for individuals seeking durable, reliable watches that effortlessly complement any ensemble.
Whether you are embarking on a mountain ascent or navigating the urban landscape, the Rolex Explorer captures the adventurous spirit that resides within us all.
Rolex Explorer Watch Prices
Rolex Explorer prices will vary based on case size, generation and dial color. Buyers can find accessible entry points between $6,000 and $8,000 by targeting neo-vintage 36mm references like the 114270. For current production, standard steel options trade in a tight bracket. Both the modern 36mm and 40mm Explorer I models sit securely in the $8,500 to $9,500 range.
Prices step up when evaluating the Explorer II or entering deep vintage territory. Current 42mm Explorer II models, specifically the highly requested Polar dial, command $12,500 to $14,500. Older 40mm versions like the 16570 offer a lower baseline starting around $8,000. Meanwhile, the true vintage market operates on entirely different multiples. Iconic early pieces such as the 1016 and the "Steve McQueen" 1655 carry massive premiums, regularly trading from $20,000 to well over $40,000.
| Model / Ref | Era | Popular Name | Metal | Bezel/Dial | Retail Price in USD | Pre-Owned Price (Approx) in USD - With Box and Papers | Notable Feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Explorer I 124270 | Current | Classic | Oystersteel | Smooth Steel | 7900 | $8,500 - $9,500 | Return to classic 36mm size with updated cal. 3230 |
| Explorer I 124273 | Current | Two-Tone | Yellow Rolesor | Smooth Gold | 14250 | $11,000 - $14,000 | First two-tone Explorer in the collection's history |
| Explorer I 224270 | Current | Explorer 40 | Oystersteel | Smooth Steel | 8350 | $8,500 - $9,500 | Newly introduced in 2023 at a larger 40mm case size |
| Explorer I 214270 | Discontinued | T-Rex (Mark I) | Oystersteel | Smooth Steel | Discontinued | $7,000 - $8,500 | 39mm case with short hands and non-lumed 3-6-9 |
| Explorer I 214270 | Discontinued | Mark II | Oystersteel | Smooth Steel | Discontinued | $7,500 - $9,500 | 39mm case with longer hands and fully lumed 3-6-9 |
| Explorer I 114270 | Neo-Vintage | - | Oystersteel | Smooth Steel | Discontinued | $6,000 - $7,500 | Solid end-links and updated cal. 3130 movement |
| Explorer I 14270 | Neo-Vintage | Blackout (early) | Oystersteel | Smooth Steel | Discontinued | $6,000 - $8,000 | First Explorer with a sapphire crystal and gloss dial |
| Explorer I 1016 | Vintage | - | Stainless Steel | Smooth Steel | Discontinued | $20,000 - $40,000 | Iconic vintage tool watch produced for nearly 30 years |
| Explorer I 6610 | Vintage | Gilt Dial | Stainless Steel | Smooth Steel | Discontinued | $30,000 - $50,000+ | Early iteration featuring sought-after gilt dial |
| Explorer I 5500 | Vintage | Explorer Air-King | Stainless Steel | Smooth Steel | Discontinued | $5,000 - $8,000 | Unique crossover reference sharing the Air-King case |
| Explorer I 6150 | Vintage | Pre-Explorer | Stainless Steel | Smooth Steel | Discontinued | $25,000 - $40,000+ | Earliest iteration associated with Everest expeditions |
| Explorer II 226570 | Current | Polar | Oystersteel | Fixed Steel 24-hr | 10600 | $12,500 - $14,500 | Current 42mm generation with white dial and cal. 3285 |
| Explorer II 226570 | Current | Black Dial | Oystersteel | Fixed Steel 24-hr | 10600 | $11,500 - $13,500 | Current 42mm generation with black dial and cal. 3285 |
| Explorer II 216570 | Discontinued | Polar | Oystersteel | Fixed Steel 24-hr | Discontinued | $11,000 - $12,500 | 40th-anniversary 42mm model with orange 24-hour hand |
| Explorer II 216570 | Discontinued | Black Dial | Oystersteel | Fixed Steel 24-hr | Discontinued | $9,500 - $11,500 | 42mm case with floating hands effect on black dial |
| Explorer II 16570 | Discontinued | Polar | Oystersteel | Fixed Steel 24-hr | Discontinued | $8,500 - $10,500 | Last 40mm Explorer II with classic proportions |
| Explorer II 16570 | Discontinued | Black Dial | Oystersteel | Fixed Steel 24-hr | Discontinued | $8,000 - $9,500 | Red 24-hour hand and versatile 40mm case size |
| Explorer II 16550 | Transitional | Cream Dial | Stainless Steel | Fixed Steel 24-hr | Discontinued | $15,000 - $25,000 | Transitional reference known for dials turning cream |
| Explorer II 16550 | Transitional | Black Dial | Stainless Steel | Fixed Steel 24-hr | Discontinued | $12,000 - $15,000 | First Explorer II to feature a sapphire crystal |
| Explorer II 1655 | Vintage | Steve McQueen / Freccione | Stainless Steel | Fixed Steel 24-hr | Discontinued | $25,000 - $40,000+ | Original Explorer II with distinctive orange arrow hand |
Rolex Explorer Key Features
Rolex Explorer Dials
The design of the Rolex Explorer dial strips away everything that doesn't serve a strict purpose. Legibility drives the entire layout. The result is that famous black backdrop anchoring the 3, 6, and 9 Arabic numerals alongside the standard Mercedes hands. Because you might be relying on this watch in a cave or on a mountain face, reading the time in a fraction of a second is non-negotiable. That’s exactly why the aesthetic remains so uncluttered, heavily favoring high-contrast elements that perform exceptionally well in the dark.
- 3-6-9 Dial Layout – High-contrast Arabic numerals designed for quick readability
- Chromalight Lume – Long-lasting blue glow for low-light visibility
- Black Dial – Standard configuration across most Explorer I and II references
- Polar Dial (Explorer II) – White dial option unique to Explorer II models
- Marker Evolution – Transition from printed to applied indices across references
Rolex Explorer Movements
Rolex Explorer movements are purpose-built for absolute endurance. Inside the Oyster case, you'll find entirely in-house automatic calibers that prioritize long-term durability over fragile complications. As Rolex updates its catalog, the engines powering these watches continually improve. Current-generation models now deliver a highly practical ~70-hour power reserve, meaning you can take the watch off on Friday and it will still be ticking by Monday. Add in heavy-duty shock absorption and magnetic resistance, and these chronometer-certified calibers guarantee exact timekeeping no matter how rough the environment gets.
- Caliber 3230 (Explorer I) – Modern time-only movement with ~70-hour power reserve
- Caliber 3285 (Explorer II) – GMT movement with dual time zone functionality
- Caliber 3130 / 3132 – Previous-generation movements known for reliability
- Chronometer Certification – Tested for high accuracy and performance
- Self-Winding Mechanism – Automatic movement powered by wrist motion
Rolex Explorer Sizes
Rolex Explorer sizes have shifted quite a bit over the decades, spanning from a traditional 36mm all the way up to a 42mm case. The dimensions vary heavily depending on whether you are looking at an Explorer I or an Explorer II, as well as the specific reference year. Case diameter completely changes how the watch wears and feels with your daily wardrobe. Picking the perfect fit really comes down to your actual wrist measurements and personal style. Here is what to expect from the most common Explorer sizes.
- 36mm Rolex Explorer – Classic, traditional size found on models like 124270 and 114270; best for smaller wrists or vintage proportions
- 39mm Rolex Explorer – Larger discontinued size from reference 214270; offers more wrist presence while staying balanced
- 40mm Rolex Explorer – Current larger size on reference 224270; brought back the classic glossy black dial and “Explorer" text back to the top of the dial for a more balanced aesthetic
- 40mm Rolex Explorer II – Older Explorer II size (16570); versatile fit with GMT functionality
- 42mm Rolex Explorer II – Modern Explorer II size (216570, 226570); bold case with strong presence and improved legibility
Popular Rolex Explorer Models
Rolex Explorer I
The Explorer I is where the Rolex sports watch lineage actually begins. It strips away date windows and rotating bezels in favor of a strictly time-only layout. You get a smooth steel bezel and a dial designed purely for fast readability. While Rolex has experimented with case dimensions over the years—most notably introducing a 39mm version for a brief period—the brand eventually returned to the traditional 36mm format while also offering a 40mm format. Because of this reserved sizing and lack of bulk, it easily transitions from outdoor gear to a tailored suit. Here are the key references collectors track.
- Rolex Explorer 124270 – Current 36mm model with updated movement
- Rolex Explorer 214270 – Discontinued 39mm version with larger case
- Rolex Explorer 224270 – Current 40mm model with updated movement
- Rolex Explorer 114270 – Earlier 36mm modern reference
- Rolex Explorer 14270 – First sapphire crystal Explorer
- Rolex Explorer 1016 – Iconic vintage reference with long production run
Rolex Explorer II
The Rolex Explorer II is a different beast altogether, built for cave explorers, polar researchers, and travelers who need to track a second time zone. It upgrades the core design with a dedicated GMT complication and a fixed 24-hour engraved bezel, allowing wearers to tell day from night when cut off from the sun. Beyond the extra utility, the Explorer II stands out for its sharp dial options, splitting the line between a classic gloss black and the famous stark white "Polar" dial. Here are the notable references across its history.
- Rolex Explorer II 226570 – Current 42mm model with updated movement; available in Polar and black dial
- Rolex Explorer II 216570 – Discontinued 42mm version with bold case and orange GMT hand
- Rolex Explorer II 16570 – Classic 40mm reference with long production run
- Rolex Explorer II 16550 – Transitional model known for cream dial variations
- Rolex Explorer II 1655 – Original Explorer II with fixed bezel and distinctive orange hand
How to Sell My Rolex Explorer
Sell or trade-in your Rolex Explorer for the best price with SwissWatchExpo. SwissWatchExpo makes it easy to sell or trade in your used or pre-owned Rolex Explorer to keep your luxury watch collection fresh!
Rolex Explorer Testimonials
I bought a Rolex Explorer from SwissWatchExpo. The watch was in excellent condition. It looked exactly like the pictures and the band length was the size specified. The watch was shipped with care and shipped the same day as purchased. I will not hesitate to purchase again from SwissWatchExpo.
I was so blown away when my watch arrived. Although manufactured over 20 years ago, my old style Explorer 2 was in brand new condition. I must have never been worn and had sat in a box for many years. It is working beautifully, losing 1-2 seconds a day. Great service, fair price, very helpful folks on the phone. 5 stars!!
I was looking for an unworn Rolex Explorer II and found it here. We did a FaceTime viewing of the watch and a virtual tour of the shop, a really nice touch to the buying experience. The process was flawless, shipping was fast and the packaging was incredible. The watch is absolutely perfect. In all, a great buying experience and I would not hesitate to buy again. Well done Swiss Watch Expo!
Beautiful collection of watches that I found myself looking at for hours. Buying process was very quick/easy and the timepiece arrived 2 days later. Packaged perfectly tight and snug. 10/10 will buy again. ( Rolex explorer ll polar white )
Fantastic experience working with Michael Cash and Jonathan Clark to find the perfect Rolex Explorer II. I'm not based in ATL so Michael took me on a virtual tour of the shop before viewing three pieces. Shipping process was easy and hassle-free.
SWE has been fantastic for me. Have now purchased 2 watches from them, and Omega speedmaster and most recently 39mm MK2 Rolex explorer. Both arrived quickly and exactly as described. Will be using them for a 3rd watch in the future.
Expert Opinion
“I always tell people the Explorer is Rolex at its absolute purest. It’s rugged, perfectly legible, and flies just under the radar. If you only want one watch that can go from a weekend hike straight into a Monday morning meeting, this is the one.”
— Eugene Tutunikov, CEO
Rolex Explorer Frequently Asked Questions
Does The Rolex Explorer Hold Its Value?
As one of Rolex's longest-running collections, the Explorer enjoys ubiquitous recognition. The versatile design also stands to continue gaining value, as even older designs remain wearable even decades after. With the introduction of new models in 2021, the Rolex Explorer also enjoyed a resurgence in interest. All these factors help secure the value of the Rolex Explorer.
What is the difference between Rolex Explorer 36 vs 40?
It really just comes down to case diameter. Rolex uses the exact same movement, smooth steel bezel, and 3-6-9 dial layout in both watches. The 36mm model strictly follows the historic proportions favored by purists. The 40mm takes that identical blueprint and stretches it out for noticeably more wrist presence.
Is The Rolex Explorer Waterproof?
The Rolex Explorer I and Rolex Explorer II are guaranteed water resistant to a depth of 100 meters or 330 feet. They come with Rolex's signature screw-down crowns and case backs, which protect the movement from moisture and dust that can be encountered with daily or sporting use.
What Is the difference between Rolex Explorer I and Explorer II?
The Explorer I is a straightforward, time-only watch with a smooth steel bezel and a classic profile. The Explorer II is a larger, more complex tool watch featuring a date window, an extra GMT hand, and an engraved 24-hour bezel for tracking an entirely different time zone.
How Will I Know If My Rolex Explorer Is Genuine?
Rolex Explorer watches are built for extreme conditions, and are crafted in keeping with Rolex's uncompromising quality standards. If the watch is lacking in heft, or if you see any sign of imperfection on the watch - such as misaligned and misspelled text or unfinished surfaces - it is likely a fake. Rolex Explorer models are also well-documented. It is always advisable to do research beforehand so you can make yourself familiar with the model's supposed features.
We also advise clients to only purchase a watch from a reputable and trusted retailer, such as SwissWatchExpo, who can provide a guarantee of authenticity on the watch.
