Rolex Explorer "Blackout"

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SKU AS01422
SKU AS01422

Why We Love it

In 2011, Rolex did the unimaginable: It fundamentally changed the design of the Oyster Perpetual Explorer I - the watch that defined general badassery for the brand for some five decades prior.  In it's newest version of the Explorer, Rolex has departed from the classic 36mm case design, deciding instead that bigger was better, and housed their in-house 3132 movement in 39mm of steel.  

While the move intrigued some, and beguiled others, it down right pissed us off.  We understood it when they switched from matte dials to glossy ones.  We could find some elegance in the presence of white-gold hour marker surrounds.  But altering the case dimensions was tantamount to heresy in our books.  I mean, the whole idea of the Explorer was that it was a small and incredibly durable wristwatch capable of taking a beating while not being cumbersome on the wrist.  

But to our chagrin, and the chagrin of many diehard Rolex enthusiasts, the line was forever altered, the legacy forever threatened. 

That is why, when we see executions that herald the original design, such as this gorgeous Reference 14270, we jump at the chance to find them a good home.  

With its feet firmly rooted in the classic design of the early Explorers - a simple black dial with 3, 6, 9 Arabic numerals and 36mm Oyster case, the 14270 every but as much an Explorer as the original models that pulled their own weight up Everest.

This particular piece is something a little more special than your standard 14270, however. Known as a "Blackout" Explorer amongst collectors, this early execution E-Serial model features black Arabic numerals instead of the later white. With the added benefit of holey lugs (which make strap & bracelet changes a snap), this early variant is often considered the most collectable modern Rolex, and rarely turn up on the secondary market - let alone in this condition!

With a full mechanical overhaul and a professional case and bracelet cleaning performed in 2014 at the Rolex Service Center in Hong Kong, this is also one of the cleanest examples we've ever come across, and don't expect it to last long.

For more information on this rare execution, check out articles on HODINKEE and Wound For Life.

A:S Guarantee

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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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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.

Rolex Explorer

Rolex Explorer "Blackout"

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Rolex Explorer

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