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Five Rolex Explorers Sold at Sotheby's
What makes a Rolex Explorer the OG? This historic Rolex classic represents design, style and authority. We explore the Explorers that have found new homes via Sotheby's over the years.
Whether you’re a seasoned watch collector or just getting started, a Rolex Explorer is very likely on your list of must-haves. Simplicity is king with the Explorer - it’s about as unflashy a Rolex as they come.
T he exterior of the Rolex Explorer has changed only minimally over the years, which means that the original allure of the Explorer and Explorer II - few complications, a fixed bezel, a stainless steel case and bracelet – remain unchanged. These vintage pieces are perfect both for a mountain trek or a corner office. The classic Explorer dial (featuring the 3/6/9 Arabic numbers) is coveted for its readability, while the 24-hour bezel and date that appear on the sequel lends this quiet watch even more day-to-day utility. Read on for five excellent Explorers that have graced the halls of Sotheby’s, and should inspire the collector in you.
Rolex Watches Available for Immediate Purchase
Underline Gilt Explorer Dial
OK, this is actually a Submariner, yes, but this particular desk diver features a gilt Explorer dial so we’re going to count it. Bonus points: this timepiece is delightfully rare. Very few Submariner references were fitted with the distinctive Explorer “3-6-9” dial, making it a gem of a find for any collector. This watch, dating from 1965, combines the case and movement of Rolex’s famous diving watch with the readability of the house’s spelunking/hiking timepiece. One could argue that with such a piece on your wrist, you could go almost anywhere in the world, up or down, in style.
Reference 16570 Explorer II
This reference ran for 22 years, starting in 1989 and ending with the current reference, which was designed for the Explorer II’s 40th birthday. This iteration hews closely to the classic design, sporting a white dial, stainless case and oyster bracelet, but then there’s the small detail of the text on the dial which you will notice reads “V C & A” above the chronometer certification. Originally sold by Van Cleef & Arpels, this rugged watch was given an elegant upgrade with a white dial and handset, doing away with the Explorer II signature oversized orange 24-hour indicator.
Reference 6350 Explorer
This is the classic Explorer dated from the year that it was introduced (there is disagreement about whether this is the first Explorer I or the second – either way, it’s an exceedingly early iteration). It therefore sports all the hallmarks of the timepiece, including the Mercedes hour hand, syringe minute hand and lollipop second hand, and chronometer certification. This reference was only in production for a single year, making the 6350 a rare and worthy prize for any collector.
Explorer II, Reference 1655
When the Explorer II was first introduced in 1971, its orange, arrow shaped 24-hour hand was a head-turner. While the main handset remained simple, this indicator ultimately gave the watch its nickname: the Freccione (Italian for arrow). This reference, the 1655, is the first Explorer II and is distinct from its older brother thanks to the 24-hour fixed bezel and heftier profile. Running for about 14 years, it was designed to be used as a tool (you could reasonably take it spelunking if you wished - in fact it was marketed to cave explorers) and therefore has a more rugged appearance than the Explorer I.
Explorer II 'Steve McQueen', Reference 1655
Watch aficionados will know that despite its nickname, there is no real proof that Mr McQueen sported this watch. But who cares? Lore is lore and this watch has earned some respect. Its high luminosity dial and orange 24-hour indicator prove that this timepiece is ready for adventure and it’s likely that this vintage offering from 1973 saw its fair share. Like the 1655 above, this watch would have been marketed to a narrow audience: cave explorers. But you don’t need to be plunging into the depths of the Earth to enjoy it - it looks just as stylish topside.
