Rolex Explorer
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Why We Love it
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Why We Love it
–Few watches have captured the imagination the way the Rolex Explorer has.
At its core, the Explorer has always been an understated tool watch, its spartan appearance belying its hearty robustness. It is perhaps this, more than any other feature, that urges ever onward the spirit of adventure and humankind's unwillingness to accept defeat. The model traces its heritage back to the first successful summit of Everest in 1953, on which Sir Edmond Hilary and Tenzig Norgay were equipped with a Rolex Oyster Precision. This particular watch, with its 3-6-9 Arabic dial, inspired the newly minted Explorer.
In 2001, Rolex introduced the successor to the Explorer I reference 14270, the ref. 114270. Housed in a 36mm stainless steel case like that of its predecessors, it featured the upgraded Rolex Calibre 3130 automatic movement, an Oyster bracelet with solid end links and Fliplock clasp, and a glossy black dial with Super-LumiNova lume. The dial retained the layout of the ref. 14270, with a mix of modern Arabic, dash and triangular indices, as well as a Mercedes handset. A classic example of Rolex’s marginal and iterative approach to watch design, it was nonetheless succeeded in 2010 by the upsized 39mm 214270 — the first time an Explorer I featured such a large case.
This particular F-serial example dates to 2004 and is in outstanding condition throughout. It features an untouched case, a flawless glossy black Luminova dial with a matching handset, and a solid-link Oyster bracelet with a Fliplock clasp. Furthermore, this watch comes with an intact factory case back sticker as well as papers dating to 2004.
The newest 36mm Explorer (ref. 124270) might be the hot ticket of the moment, but this 114270 was produced nearly 15 years before the debut of that model, making it the very definition of a contemporary classic!
Brand Story
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Brand Story
+From the early waterproof Oyster case of the 1920s through to the ultra-complicated Sky Dweller of today, Rolex models and innovations have captivated a global audience and permeated the zeitgeist unlike those of any other brand. Whether it’s a simple, time-only Air King, a function-first Submariner or a complicated GMT Master II for the jet set, a Rolex commands a certain respect on the wrist and says something about the discerning eye of its owner.
From the swimming of the English channel in 1927 to the scaling of Mt. Everest in 1953, Rolex watches have been associated with adventure for the better part of a century. Despite its association since the 1970s more with luxury and status than with commando operations behind enemy lines or sporting achievements, Rolex still makes one of the most robust timepieces available on the contemporary market. And the company continues to support scientific endeavors around the world.
Interestingly, for most of the firm’s history, Rolex largely did not produce its components in-house, including its movements. (Indeed, hand-wound Daytonas sold today at auction for eye-watering prices feature run-of-the-mill Valjoux movements that feature in watches from hundreds of other brands). It wasn’t until the early 21st century that Rolex became the vertically integrated manufacturing behemoth that it is today, purchasing everything from movement manufacturers to bracelet companies. (Notably, the Crown even forges its own gold.)
Whether one is attracted to the rich history of the brand or simply finds its products notable from an investment perspective, Rolex is a company whose wares are guaranteed to remain a benchmark for horological quality forever.
A:S Guarantee
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A:S Guarantee
+Our Pledge
Analog:Shift stands behind the authenticity of our products in perpetuity.
Condition
Since our pieces are vintage or pre-owned, please expect wear & patina from usage and age. Please read each item description and examine all product images.
Warranty
We back each Analog:Shift vintage timepiece with a one-year mechanical warranty from the date of purchase.
International Buyers
Please contact us prior to purchase for additional details on shipping and payment options.
Shipping & Returns
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Shipping & Returns
+All of our watches include complementary insured shipping within the 50 states.
Most of our products are on hand and will ship directly from our headquarters in New York City. In some cases, watches will be shipped directly from one of our authorized partners.
We generally ship our products via FedEx, fully insured, within 5 business days of purchase. An adult signature is required for receipt of all packages for insurance purposes. Expedited shipping is available at an additional cost. We are also happy to hand deliver your purchase in Manhattan or you may pick it up at our showroom.
Returns must be sent overnight or by priority international delivery, fully insured and paid for by the customer. A restocking fee may apply. Watches must be returned in the same condition as initially shipped.
We welcome international buyers, please contact us prior to purchase for additional details on shipping and payment options.
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Rolex Explorer
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