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Rolex Explorer Collection

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The Rolex Explorer collection, as the name suggests, is a timepiece specially developed for explorers. What capabilities does the Explorer collection possess to ensure precise operation in extreme environments, and what evolutions has it undergone since its launch in 1953?

  

  Introduction:RolexThe Explorer collection, as the name implies, is a watch designed specifically for explorers. What capabilities does the Explorer collection possess to ensure precise operation in extreme environments, and what changes has it experienced since its launch in 1953?

  Both the Explorer I and Explorer II collections are divided into older and newer models. Most of the pieces we purchase in the market today are the newer Explorer I and Explorer II watches. InRolexofficial catalogues, these are 2 independent collections, but because they both carry the Explorer name, we are discussing them together today. The differences between the Explorer I and Explorer II, as well as between the new and old models, will be explained in detail today.

  Explorer I Watch

  Rolex launched the first Explorer watch in 1953, created to commemorate the first successful ascent of Mount Everest by explorers. Since its introduction in 1953, it has rapidly become an iconic and classic timepiece.

  The Rolex Explorer collection maintains accurate timekeeping even in extreme conditions, remaining precise at minus 50 degrees Celsius. It is certainly the watch of choice for explorers.

  This is the new Explorer watch launched by Rolex in 2010. The new Rolex Explorer has undergone some changes based on the older model. Firstly, the case diameter has been increased from 36 mm to 39 mm, better aligning with the trend for larger cases. The movement of the watch has been updated with a new shock absorber and hairspring, changing from the 3130 movement to the 3132 movement.

  Explorer II collection

  The Explorer II collection isRolexa new watch introduced in 1971, originally designed with a 24-hour hand primarily to address polar exploration during polar day or polar night conditions, where the 24-hour display proves exceptionally practical. This design can likewise be used to display a second time zone.

  The new Explorer II collection does not look vastly different from the older model; it is a redesigned timepiece released by Rolex in 2011, with the new case expanded to 42 mm. The dial features a Chromalight luminescence display, ensuring the watch is clearly legible in any environment. Designed for extreme environments, this watch fully reflects Rolex's enduring bond with world exploration.

  Across the entire Explorer family, there are essentially these few models, alongside the distinction between black and white dials. As for the respective differences and positioning of the watches, I will share what I understand here. First, regarding the main differences between the old Explorer I and the new Explorer I: the new Explorer I has an increased case diameter, going from the original 36 mm to 39 mm. Because the case diameter increased while the hands did not, the hands on the new Explorer I appear slightly short on the dial, with the minute hand being particularly noticeable. Next, the 3, 6, and 9 luminescent hour markers on the dial were removed and replaced with stainless steel markers. Internally, the movement was upgraded from the 3130 movement to the 3132 movement, adopting a new shock absorber and new hairspring. The old Explorer I was listed at 42300 yuan, while the new Explorer I is listed at 51100 yuan, making it significantly dearer; price aside, the new Explorer I is still more highly recommended.

  The new Explorer II features several detailed changes compared to the old Explorer II. Firstly, the case diameter of the watch has increased from 40 mm to 42 mm. Visually, the second time zone hand has changed from red to orange and is somewhat thicker. Similarly, the watch movement has also been upgraded, equipped with Rolex's patented blue Parachrom hairspring and Paraflex shock absorbers. In terms of price, the old Explorer II was listed at 56300 yuan, and the new Explorer II is listed at 64200 yuan.

  Summary: The Explorer collection isRolexa very important collection specifically developed for explorers, capable of maintaining precise timekeeping even at minus fifty degrees Celsius.


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