There was virtually nowhere in the world a Rolex watch could not go especially after the release of the Rolex Explorer in 1953, when Tenzing Norgay — sporting a prototype Exlorer model — conquered the 29,053-feet peak of Mt. Everest. Encased in a highly-durable 904L steel, the Rolex Explorer can endure even in the harshest corrosive environment. And as it combines easily with other precious metals utilized by Rolex, the durability and toughness of the Explorer can only be tempered by its sleek, polished smoothness.
The Rolex Explorer was designed to be easily-read, and its architecture revolved around toughness, precision, and accessibility. The earlier models 6098 and 6150 featured Quarter Arabic dials, with only the numbers 3, 6, and 9 visible as numerals. Additionally, the initial models were fitted with the A.296 movement, the same movement that was used in the Big Bubbleback 10-1/2 at that time.
It was given the official chronometer certification by the late 1950s, and since then, the Rolex Explorer has gone through even more significant changes, including improvements on the dial and movement. For instance, the initial arrow-shaped hands of the 6150 were modified to display the more popular Mercedes-style hands beginning with the model 6610.
Also in the late 1950s, a version of the Air-King with an Explorer dial was released, presumably for officers in the British military. This model was made available in a slimmer and smaller 19mm bracelet, with either “Precision” or “Super Precision” marked just above the 6 o’clock position. Oyster Perpetuals were also released in steel or gold with white or black non-Explorer dials, but still otherwise bearing the word “Explorer.”
In 1963, Rolex released the Space Dweller, also from the Explorer line, when NASA’s Mercury astronauts visited Japan. It was fitted with the 1560 caliber movement, and installed with the “hack” feature, enabling the wearer to stop the second hand at the 12 o’clock position to make synchronization with another timepiece easier. Rolex also launched the Oyster bracelet for the Explorer, revising the earlier folded steel sheet links.
By 1990, the Rolex Explorer was redesigned to utilize the new and highly-accurate 3000 caliber movement. A sapphire crystal was also installed, which made the Explorer even more resistant to shocks and scratches. This revolutionary model became the 14270.
Currently, the Rolex Explorer comes in 34mm steel, with its popular Quarter Arabic black dial, polished bezel, and an Oysterlock bracelet. It is water-resistant for up to 330 feet, fitted with a sapphire crystal, and can endure in temperatures ranging from -20 degrees to 40 degrees Celsius. These attributes and more make the Rolex Explorer a highly-prized watch by avid collectors, and an essential equipment by any adventurer ready to make a mark in the world.
Tags: Rolex Education, Rolex Explorer, Rolex Models, Rolex Oyster Perpetual Professional
