The Rolex Explorer 1 ref. 14270 was introduced by Rolex in 1989 as the successor to the ref. 1016. The Rolex Explorer 1 ref. 1016 was in production for 27 years and saw only minor updates to the dial and bracelet, the Ref. 1016 largely remained unchanged throughout its 27 years of production. The ref. 14270, however, was a massive technical update to the Explorer 1. The ref. 14270 received a more modern sapphire crystal, a new, faster-beating Rolex Cal. 1570, and then the Cal. 3000 movements. The updates also featured a more modern solid link bracelet with the later era bracelets receiving a smaller flip-lock clasp, and the most notable difference and update from a design visual perspective is a lacquered dial with applied white gold indices that were filled with tritium luminous material and then later with luminova. The Rolex Explorer ref. 14270 has quickly generated a cult-like following, especially the earlier examples that possess tritium-filled markers and hands.The Rolex Explorer I references bridge the gap between a dress watch and a sports watch. Without the crown guards and rotating bezels commonly found on sports models offered by Rolex, the Explorer I has a cleaner, sleeker profile while incorporating recognizable sports model features into the dial. The highly visible block indices, numerals at the 3 o'clock, 6 o'clock, and 9 o'clock positions, and Submariner style triangle at the 12 o'clock position allow for readability under any conditions. The Mercedes-style hands featured on the ref. 14270 adds to the unique feel and appearance. The Rolex explorer blends the classic and timeless look of a 36mm Rolex Oyster style watch while offering a ruggedness and utilitarian feel that can be worn in the most formal and or casual settings. Stock # RLXEXP14270-15 Brand Rolex Style Explorer I Model 14270 Serial T3XXXXX Size Men's Material Stainless Steel Dial Glossy Black 3-6-9 Dial Millimeters 36 Bracelet Rolex 78360 Oyster Bracelet W/ 558B End Pieces CASE & BRACELET The case is in exceptionally strong condition with crisp brushing and edges throughout with light signs of use present. The smooth stainless steel bezel shows almost no signs of use. The case back retains full finishing with light signs of use present. The original Rolex 78360 Oyster bracelet with 558B end pieces retains 11 links and will fit up to a 7 inch wrist. DIAL & HANDS The glossy black dial with white gold surround markers is in flawless original condition with no damage or age present. The tritium lume plots remain a bright white with no degradation present under U.V. light inspection. The original tritium hands match the dial perfectly, showing no degradation under U.V. light inspection. ACCESSORIES None. The watch was recently serviced and is keeping time perfectly, backed by a 1-year warranty on the timekeeping.
