2010 Rolex Explorer Ref. 214270 First Series MK 1 'Full Set'

The Rolex Explorer is the brand’s most understated sports watch, often flying under the radar. However, with its rich history and very wearable look, the Explorer is a Rolex watch that should not be overlooked, and it is getting much appreciation by the watch community – see these Refs. 1016 for the Explorer I and the Refs. 1655 for the Explorer II. The Explorer’s official story famously takes shape with Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay’s pioneering ascent to Mount Everest in 1953.

The ref. 214270 was released in 2010 at Baselworld on the shoulders of the Explorer's legacy. The contemporary release featured some important upgrades, including a larger 39mm case and the solid-link 904L stainless steel Oyster bracelet. There was also the upgraded Cal. 3132 movement featuring a Parachrom hairspring and Paraflex shock absorbers for greater shock and temperature resistance - a definite benefit for this rugged adventure watch.

The watch offered for sale here is one of the first series Ref. 214270, that features a Mark I dial.

The Mark I dial of the ref. 214270 also featured solid white gold 3, 6, and 9 Arabic hour markers. While it gave the watch a smart, refined look, it also meant that these cardinal markers did not glow in the dark. This is a sports watch, after all, and many collectors weren’t happy that the low-light legibility was jeopardized with this new contemporary reference. This is known as ‘blackout’.

This was amended by Rolex with the Mark II dial, hence making the Mark I rarer and more sough-after.

The overall condition of the watch is very good, near mint. From the flawless dial and hands to the recently polished bezel, case, case back and bracelet.