Rolex Explorer History
From Everest to modern city streets, the story of how a rugged 1953 tool watch evolved into one of Rolex's most enduring icons.
2 min read
The Rolex Explorer is one of the most iconic watches in the world. It has been around since 1953 and has become a symbol of adventure and exploration. The watch was designed to be rugged and reliable, perfect for explorers who needed a reliable timepiece while they were out in the wild.
The original Rolex Explorer was designed with a 36mm stainless steel case, black dial, and luminous hands and markers. It was powered by an automatic movement with a date complication at 3 o’clock. The watch was designed to be water-resistant up to 100 meters, making it perfect for any outdoor activity.
The original Rolex Explorer was released in 1953 and quickly became popular among adventurers and explorers. It was worn by Sir Edmund Hillary during his historic ascent of Mount Everest in 1953, cementing its place as an iconic watch for adventurers.
In 1971, Rolex released the Explorer II which featured a larger 42mm case size and an additional 24-hour hand on the dial. This allowed wearers to easily tell the time in two different time zones at once, making it perfect for travelers or those who frequently crossed time zones.
In 1989, Rolex released the Explorer II ref 1655 which featured a new orange 24-hour hand on the dial as well as an updated movement with improved accuracy and reliability. This model is often referred to as the “Steve McQueen” due to its association with the actor who famously wore one while filming The Thomas Crown Affair in 1968.
In 2010, Rolex released the Explorer II ref 216570 which featured a larger 44mm case size as well as an updated movement with improved accuracy and reliability. This model also featured a new black dial with white luminous hands and markers which gave it a more modern look compared to previous models.
Today, the Rolex Explorer is still one of the most popular watches in the world thanks to its iconic design and rugged reliability that make it perfect for any adventure or exploration you may embark on. Whether you’re climbing mountains or exploring new cities, you can trust that your Rolex Explorer will keep ticking no matter what comes your way!
