The 2016 Rolex Explorer (Reference #214270) features the same look and features that have made the model a popular choice since it was introduced in 1953. With a clear and legible display on a simple stainless steel configuration, this model looks similar to the Oyster Perpetual but has a legacy of exploration that makes it a favorite amongst collectors.
The Explorer and Oyster Perpetual are both powered by Rolex’s 3132 self-winding mechanical movement that is manufactured in-house by the watchmaker. Its 39mm Oyster case and Twinlock winding crown give the Explorer a depth rating of 100 meters. It has a 48 hour power reserve and features center hour, minute and second hands with stop-seconds for precise time-setting. It is made from Rolex’s 904L stainless steel and features an Oyster bracelet and a smooth bezel.
The changes made to the 2016 model do not stray away from the classic minimalist design that has made it so popular. They swapped out the white gold arabic numerals for numerals filled with blue Chromalight luminescent material to match the hour markers and hands. In the lume shot above, you can see how the 2016 model looks just as symmetrical in the dark as it does in the light, some say an improvement over the previous model that lost the 3, 6 and 9 to the darkness. Another improvement they made to this model is the extension of the hands to reach the hour markers.
The charm of this simple yet sturdy professional watch has kept it relatively unchanged for decades. Aside from its size increasing from 36mm to 39mm and its Chromalight display improving to include the arabic numerals, there isn’t too much that differentiates the 2016 Explorer from previous references. For more information on this and other Rolex models visit the watchmaker’s official website at rolex.com.
