When Rolex released the new 2016 Explorer model, I was not sure what the difference was between this and the version released prior. After reading up on it on the forums and in Rolex's promotional materials for the 2016 release (Reference # 214270), I understood why they felt the need to release a new version with such a subtle variation. It is hard to tell what has changed at a glance, but the differences are easier to identify with the lights out.
2016 Rolex Explorer (photo: Rolex/Alain Costa)
The Explorer is Rolex's most understated professional model. In stainless steel with a simple and legible display, it is wonderfully symmetrical and easy to read. Its characteristic arabic numerals at 3, 6 and 9 o'clock have been filled with luminescent material in this latest version, making its Chromalight display look perfectly clear in the dark, as the photo below shows. In addition to the change in lume, this model also features an elongated minute hand for better legibility as compared to the shorter hand in the previous model, known as 'T-Rex', because the minute hand fell short of reaching the hour markers. Opinions differ as to which version better represents the Explorer, but when you look at the lume photo it is hard to deny that the luminescent numerals improve the display.
Chromalight Display of 2016 Rolex Explorer (photo: Rolex/Alain Costa)
The Explorer is powered by a 3132 self-winding mechanical movement manufactured by Rolex in-house. The Oyster case of this stainless steel sports watch measures 39 millimeters in diameter and features a smooth bezel and Twinlock winding crown. Waterproof up to 100 meters, it comes on an Oyster bracelet with an Oysterlock clasp that includes an Easylink 5 millimeter comfort extension link. The dial is black with a satin finish and the hour markers and numerals are made from 18 carat white gold and filled with long-lasting luminescence. The suggested retail price for the Explorer is 6,200 Swiss Francs or approximately $6,503 US. For more information on this and all of their models, including where to buy one, visit rolex.com. I've embedded the video below from their YouTube channel for additional information and beautiful shots of this classic Rolex.
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