Rolex Explorer 36 Black Dial Stainless Steel Oyster Bracelet 114270

The Rolex Explorer Reference 114270 is a highly popular and widely recognized modern vintage model, representing the pure, functional roots of Rolex’s tool watches. Discontinued in 2010, the 114270 is the last of the classic 36 mm Explorer references before the model briefly expanded to 39 mm.

The watch is constructed entirely from Oystersteel (904L stainless steel), which is highly resistant to corrosion and provides exceptional strength.  It maintains the classic, versatile 36 mm case diameter (Source 1.1, 1.2).

The watch features the classic Oyster architecture, including a screw-down case back and the Twinlock winding crown. Its robust construction ensures water resistance up to 100 metres (330 feet), suitable for exploration and daily wear (Source 1.1).

The case is crowned by a smooth, highly polished Domed Bezel crafted from Oystersteel, emphasizing its clean, utilitarian design.

The timepiece is fitted with the robust Oyster bracelet, characterized by its three broad, flat links, all crafted from satin-finished Oystersteel.  This generation features solid end links (SELs) and solid center links, providing superior durability compared to earlier generations. It is secured by the folding Oysterclasp (Source 1.2, 1.3).

The centerpiece is the classic Black Lacquer Dial, known for its legibility and depth. It features the signature “3-6-9” Arabic numerals, a hallmark of the Explorer line, with the remaining markers being triangular (at 12) or rectangular batons.

• All hour markers and the Mercedes-style hands are filled with Super-LumiNova luminous material (after 2000, replacing tritium), providing long-lasting glow (Source 1.3, 2.2).

• Unlike its predecessors, the 114270 featured applied white gold surrounds for the hour markers, giving it a cleaner, more modern look.

Under the dial lies the reliable Calibre 3130 movement. This self-winding mechanical movement is a highly robust workhorse used in various three-hand Rolex models of that era. It features a hacking seconds function and is certified as a Superlative Chronometer, guaranteeing exceptional precision.

• Power Reserve: Approximately 48 hours (Source 1.2, 2.3).