Rolex Explorer I

Why We Love It In 2011, Rolex did the unimaginable. They 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 its 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 downright annoyed us.  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. The whole point 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, and 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. Featuring a strong case, 'holey lugs' (lugs with holes that allow easier strap/bracelet changes), a flawless dial, and a rare factory "Heavy Duty" option bracelet (Reference 93150/558B), this is an exceptional early production model from the neo-vintage age of sports model Rolex. These are becoming increasingly difficult to locate, so don't wait! The Story With its feet firmly rooted in the classic design of the early Explorers - a simple black dial with 3, 6, 9 Arabic numerals -- albeit a more avant-garde approach to the look --and 36mm Oyster case, the 14270 is every bit as much an Explorer as the original models that pulled their own weight up Everest. The day was May 29, 1953, and Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay stood on top of the world. Rolex had indeed come with them to the summit of Mount Everest and since then Rolex has long been known as the watch of exploration. The triumph of the 1953 expedition and spirit of adventure and exploration that the Explorer represents can certainly be felt when this watch is strapped to your wrist. These were watches designed to be tough as nails and capable of operating effectively in the harshest conditions known to man. Whether it was diving to the lowest point or climbing to the highest, you've got to hand it to Rolex - they know how to build one hell of a sports watch! It really doesn't get more badass than that.