NOS 1998 Rolex Explorer Ref. 14270 'Swiss Only' 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.

This A-series 36mm Explorer is in unworn condition.

 

Produced for a very short period, only in A-Series, this example features a coveted ‘Swiss Only’ dial as, instead of having tritium readings at 6 o’clock like the rest of Rolex from the same period, this rare batch shows no T for tritum as it shows on later luminova Rolex.

 

Featuring the classic quarter Arabic tritium black glossy dial with white gold applied markers and 'Mercedes' hands, this 14270 is powered by the automatic 3000 caliber and fitted to the sporty and comfortable 20mm Rolex Oyster 78790 stainless steel bracelet with clasp code X6.

 

The all-stainless-steel case still preserves the side stickers as well as the case back sticker which remains unmolested.

 

It comes with the original stamped guarantee papers showing it was sold in Hong Kong in 1999, wallet, manual and boxes.

 

Indeed, a great opportunity is presented here as the chances of finding new, unworn Rolex pre-2000s are getting close to zero.