Rolex today presented the new generation of Explorer and Explorer II models for 2021.
Following the first ascent of Mount Everest by Sir Edmund Hillary and Sir Tenzing Norgay on May 29 of the same year, the new Oyster Perpetual Explorer has a diameter of 36 mm, restoring the dimensions of the original model launched in 1953.
The new Explorer is made of oyster steel and gold (a combination of oyster steel and 18k gold).
Protected by a virtually scratch-resistant sapphire crystal, the black dial is now lacquered, but still features recognizable 3, 6 and 9 numerals and hour markers that, like the hands, produce an intense blue glow from the Chromalight luminous material. In daylight, these display elements also have a brighter white hue.
The new Explorer is equipped with Calibre 3230, a 4 Hz (28,800 vph) self-winding mechanical movement entirely developed and manufactured by Rolex and launched in 2020.Calibre 3230 features Rolex’s patented Chronergy escapement, which combines high energy efficiency with great reliability. It is made of nickel-phosphor and is also insensitive to magnetic fields. The movement is equipped with an optimized blue Parachrom hairspring, made by Rolex, in a paramagnetic alloy that is 10 times more accurate than a conventional hairspring in the event of vibrations. Its power reserve can be extended to approximately 70 hours.
The Rolex Explorer 36 mm in Oyster steel (Ref. 124270) is priced at €6,100, while the two-tone version in Oyster steel and gold (Ref. 124273) will retail for €10,350.
Rolex has also introduced the new generation of the Oyster Perpetual Explorer II. This new model features a 42 mm Oyster steel case with a choice of white or black dial. Both are lacquered and feature a distinctive orange 24-hour hand that allows the wearer to clearly distinguish between day and night, or combine it with an engraved fixed bezel to indicate a second time zone.
On the white lacquered dial, the hour markers and hands are coated with black PVD (Physical Vapor Deposition) for a beautiful matte finish. Like the Explorer, the Explorer II features a Chromalight display to improve readability in low light conditions. The sapphire crystal is fitted with a Cyclops lens at 3 o’clock for easy reading of the date.
While the changes may be less obvious, the case and strap have been redesigned to enhance visual balance and consistency with the brand’s other models.
Equipped with the 4 Hz self-winding caliber 3285, the new Explorer II is also equipped with a Chronergy escapement and a blue Parachrom hairspring. The self-governing is approximately 70 hours.
The Rolex Explorer II 42 mm Oyster steel ref. 226570, with either white or black dial, is priced at 8,150 euros.
As with all Rolex watches, the new Oyster Perpetual Explorer and Oyster Perpetual Explorer II are Superlative Chronometer certified, ensuring exceptional performance on the wrist.
Thanks to the screw-down Twinlock winding crown, these watches are water-resistant to a depth of 100 meters/330 feet.
