Called to push the limits of exploration and human endurance, Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay set out to successfully ascend Mount Everest in May of 1953. Theirs would be the first successful mission to the “top of the world.” They were backed by scientists, an expedition team, and hundreds of porters who checked and double-checked the men’s supplies, ensuring they possessed all the tools needed for their survival. Among these necessary items was Rolex’s Oyster Perpetual Explorer, a timepiece designed to withstand extreme conditions with never-before-seen accuracy. As a trusted companion to these voyagers, Rolex became a name synonymous with adventure.
Since that great mission, the Explorer has been the watch of choice for polar travelers, speleologists, and volcanologists. It has endured breathless heights and heart-stopping frost. As we learn more about our planet thanks to these brave researchers, Rolex continues to improve the renowned reliability of the Explorer, guaranteeing it will remain on the wrist of the exceptional for years to come.
Designed for Exploration
The Explorer sets itself apart with a simple design and a highly legible black dial with large hour markers and characteristic 3, 6 and 9 numerals. It is a tool watch, created to tell time accurately, whatever the circumstances. Even in the dark, the dial is easy to read, thanks to the Chromalight display.Today, the Explorer is available in the same 36 mm size as the original model.
The Explorer II was introduced in 1971 and, in the same spirit as the Explorer, perpetuates the privileged relationship Rolex enjoys with exploration. Thanks to its 24-hour display comprising an additional, orange hour hand and an engraved bezel, the Explorer II allows the wearer to clearly distinguish daytime from night-time hours – a practical option in places where distinguishing day from night is difficult, such as at the poles at certain times of the year, and in caves – or to read the time in a second time zone.
Resisting the Extremes
Watches in the Explorer range have constantly evolved to meet explorers’ needs, each time becoming more robust and reliable. The Explorer is available in Oystersteel or in a yellow Rolesor version (combining Oystersteel and yellow gold), and the Explorer II is made exclusively in Oystersteel. Specially developed for Rolex, Oystersteel is a unique alloy with excellent anti-corrosion properties.
Both models are fitted with an Oyster bracelet, a three-piece link bracelet known for its robustness. Featuring the Rolex-designed and patented Oysterlock folding safety clasp, which prevents accidental opening, it is also equipped with the Easylink comfort extension link; developed by the brand, this allows the wearer to easily adjust the bracelet length by approximately 5 mm.
The Explorer is equipped with calibre 3230 while the Explorer II features calibre 3285. Both are self-winding mechanical movements entirely developed and manufactured by Rolex. They offer a power reserve of about 70 hours.
Superlative Chronometer Certification
Like all Rolex watches, the Explorer and Explorer II are covered by the Superlative Chronometer certification. This designation testifies that every watch leaving the brand’s workshops has successfully undergone a series of tests conducted by Rolex in its own laboratories, according to its own criteria. The Superlative Chronometer status is symbolized by the green seal that comes with every Rolex watch and is coupled with an international five-year guarantee.
Only Official Retailers like Razny Jewelers are allowed to sell Rolex watches. With the necessary skills and technical know-how, we will help you make the choice of a lifetime.
Razny Jewelers is proud to sell Rolex timepieces in downtown Chicago, Addison, and our recently expanded showroom in Highland Park.
Schedule your appointment with our timepiece experts to discover Rolex’s Explorer and Explorer II for yourself.
