Explorer

To the immense delight of devoted purists and understated watch enthusiasts alike, 2021 marked a triumphant return to form for the Rolex Explorer. Following eleven years of its production in an oversized, 39 mm case, the go-anywhere-do-anything Rolex had finally returned to its original 36 mm profile. Departing from its original dimensions, this reference introduced 19 mm lugs and bracelet endlinks, as opposed to those measuring 20 mm featured on the model in all of its past iterations. While seemingly a trivial change, this downsize afforded the Explorer a more tapered profile on the wrist, while improving overall comfort and wearability. Committed to continually powering their timepieces with movements produced using the most advanced of components, Rolex also replaced the Explorer’s caliber 3132 movement with the notably upgraded caliber 3230. Boasting the brand’s patented Chronergy escapement and a blue Parachrom hairspring, the reference 124270 exists as the most efficient Explorer to date, with an increased power reserve of 70 hours.