Rolex were adamant that they wanted their watches on the summit and so in 1952 they equipped the British climbers with large size Oyster watches. These watches were what collectors now refer to as Pre-Explorers, essentially prototypes of what would ultimately become the Explorer.
In this post
What is special about the Rolex Explorer?
The goal with the Rolex Explorer was to optimise legibility. The steel case measured a robust 36mm. The black dial featured a uniform 3-6-9 Arabic numeral layout. The use of luminous paint on the hands and the indexes ensured visibility in all conditions.
Why was the Rolex Explorer created?
The Rolex Explorer was launched in 1953, based around another iconic Rolex model; the ‘Bubbleback’. The Bubbleback grew out of Rolex’s development of self-winding movements. The addition of an oscillation weight increased the size of the movement, meaning it would no longer fit in the standard Oyster case.
Did the Rolex Explorer go to Everest?
Mount Everest is a climber’s ultimate challenge. In May 1953, two members of a British expedition reached the summit of the legendary peak. Their achievement was hailed around the world, and Rolex played a part in it.
Is Rolex Explorer worth buying?
So, here’s our argument for the Rolex explorer as the best sports model. It tells time, and it does it with great legibility. It has a sleek case that remains one of the only Rolex sport models to not receive the super case treatment, and a robust movement that can take a beating; nothing superfluous.
What is the most understated Rolex?
The Rolex Explorer is the brand’s most understated steel sports watch, but, for that reason, it’s one of our favourites. The Explorer has a rich history, which begins with a Perpetual Oyster that Sir Edmund Hillary’s pioneering ascent to Mount Everest in 1953.
Who wore Rolex Explorer?
Ian Fleming wore one and Bond wears one in the books, where it’s affectionately referred to as the ‘Oyster Perpetual’ even though it matches the Explorer’s description. Other famous Explorer wearers include Steve McQueen, Bryan Ferry, and Don Draper of ‘Mad Men’.
What is the cheapest Rolex you can buy?
36mm Oyster Perpetual
What Is The Cheapest Rolex. The cheapest Rolex is the 36mm Oyster Perpetual which costs $5,800 MSRP. The Oyster Perpetual is a no date stainless steel sports model that is considered the most affordable or entry level men’s Rolex.
Why Rolex Explorer 2 is not popular?
The Rolex Explorer II has always sold well enough for Rolex. But it’s never been as popular as the brand’s other tool watches. This is due to its distinct aesthetic and narrower target market.
Is Rolex Explorer a dress watch?
It is the perfect dress and casual watch. Plus, the full lume on the dial makes it a winner for me.
Did Edmund Hillary wear a Rolex?
Rolex equipped Sir Edmund Hillary with a Rolex watch prior to the 1953 mission, a Rolex Oyster Perpetual manufactured in 1950. Norgay, likewise, received a Rolex watch—an early prototype of what would eventually become the Rolex Explorer.
What watch did Edmund Hillary wear?
One of these watches, Hillary’s, hangs in The Science Museum in London. “Presented to the Clockmakers Museum around October 1953 by Sir Edmund Hillary, after wearing it on his ascent up the mountain. The watch is a Smiths De Luxe 15 jewel movement in a steel waterproof case by the Dennison Watch Case Company.
Is the Smiths Everest a good watch?
The Smiths Everest isn’t just well-designed on the outside. It’s equally well-engineered on the inside, with a Miyota 9015 automatic movement. This movement has a frequency of 28,800Hz with 24 jewels, and an accuracy of -10 to +30 seconds per day.
Is Rolex Explorer hard to get?
Rolex watches, like the Oyster Perpetual Explorer are becoming increasingly hard to find.
Do Rolex Explorers hold their value?
Conclusion. Rolex watches hold their value, and with some models, their value appreciates exponentially. Suppose you own or come across a Submariner, the Cosmograph Daytona, the Day-Date, or GMT-Master II (just to name a few). In that case, it’s an excellent opportunity whether you are the seller or a collector.
Will the Rolex Explorer go up in value?
So, buying the ref. 216570 might end up saving you quite a bit. And as the popularity of the Explorer II has increased over the last few years, it’s probably safe to say that prices for it will rise even further in the coming years.
What is the most subtle Rolex?
Everest in 1953 wearing a Rolex Oyster that proved capable of keeping time under the extreme conditions found at high altitudes. One of the most subtle models Rolex makes, it’s a quieter statement than the Submariner and considerably less expensive, though still emanating the exclusivity of a Rolex.
Is a Rolex an investment?
Rolex watches increase in price over time as the demand and supply gap widens. This makes them an asset whose value appreciates over time. Rolex increased the prices of their watches by over 4.2% at the start of 2022. This suggests a price hike is very likely in the future.
Is a Rolex Explorer waterproof?
The Twinlock winding crown on the Explorer and Explorer II is fitted with a double waterproofness system. It features two sealed zones, one inside the tube, the other inside the crown. This principle is used on most of the watches in the Oyster collection that are guaranteed waterproof to 100 metres (330 feet).
Can you wear a Rolex Explorer with a suit?
Some of them are the Submariner, Explorer/Explorer II, Daytona, Sea-Dweller, GMT-Master II, Yacht-Master and Yacht-Master II, Milgauss, and the Air-King. The best part of having one or two of these models is that they all can go well from a diving suit to a three-piece suit.
Will a Rolex last forever?
In the majority of cases, a Rolex timepiece can last a lifetime, especially if it’s serviced regularly. While Rolex recommends service every ten years, it’s a good idea to have your watch looked at every 5 to 7 years to ensure optimal performance.