Specs
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Reference | 124270 |
| Diameter | 36 mm |
| Height | 11.5 mm |
| Material | Oystersteel (904L) |
| Water resistance | 100 m |
| Crystal | Sapphire, anti-reflective |
| Movement | Cal. 3230 |
| Power reserve | 70 hours |
| Functions | Hours, minutes, seconds |
| Bracelet | Oyster, Oysterlock clasp, Easylink |
7,500 EUR
Design
The Explorer I was introduced in 1953, tied to Rolex's involvement with the Everest expeditions. The hallmark 3-6-9 dial with Mercedes hands has barely changed since. No date window, no bezel complications — just time.
The current ref. 124270 returned to the original 36mm case size in 2021 after a period at 39mm (ref. 214270, 2010–2021). It runs the Cal. 3230 with Chronergy escapement, Parachrom hairspring, and Paraflex shock absorbers.
Applied white-gold indices with Chromalight lume (blue glow). Smooth bezel, brushed case, solid end-links.
History
The Explorer line started with ref. 6150/6350 in 1953. The ref. 1016 (1963–1989) was the longest-running reference. Then 14270 (1989, first sapphire crystal), 114270 (2001, Cal. 3130), 214270 (2010, upsized to 39mm), and the current 124270 (2021, back to 36mm).