An automatic, stainless steel, Rolex Oyster Perpetual Explorer reference 114270 model with a glossy black dial with the unmistakable Explorer configuration.  It is hard to compare Rolex models in terms of "importance".  But, when looking through the Rolex stable of watches, the Explorer is certainly worth including in a conversation as one of the most identifiable and, dare I say it, iconic references.  As Ian Flemming, one of a number of notable owners of Rolex Explorer's, wrote; "A gentleman’s choice of timepiece says as much about him as does his Saville Row suit.” 

The origin story of this watch begins takes place amoungst the equipment of Sir Edmund Hillary and sherpa Tenzig Norgay's famous journey to the top of Mount Everest in 1953.  Another example of Rolex's uncanny ability to market themselves with pioneers, great human achievement, and iconic individuals.  That watch was nothing like what began to be rolled out by the Rolex marketing monster, hot off the heels of this monumental human achievement, in 1953.  The reference 6350 had a black, "Explorer" printed, waffle dial with the iconic three six and nine demarcation and a thirty six millimeter case.  So popular has this watch been over the years that it essentially remained unchanged from the  main production  model; the reference 1016 launched in 1963, to the precursor to this example; the 14270 introduced in 1989. Of what are regarded as Rolex 'sport' models, this really is the only one to have so few reference numbers over such a long period in the catalog.

So, to this reference; the 114270.  This model replaced the 14270 in 2001, and did so by featuring a brand new movement. The watch is powered by the Rolex, Swiss made, thirty one jewel automatic caliber 3130.  This is the fourth generation of the Rolex three hundred caliber, and differs from the caliber 3135 by having no date.  The movement has a Chronergy escapement as well as optimized and improved gears and lubricants which allows for a better power reserve. Upon launching its new generation 3000 calibers, Rolex stated that 90% of the components have changed from the previous generations. As can be seen on the dial of this watch, it did obtain COSC certification hence the original paperwork and the dial mention the 'official chronometer certification'.  It has been so widely impressive across the line that is has remained unchanged for over twenty years now.  This movement is also powering other Rolex watches at this time, such as the other icon; the 14060 no date submariner.

Made circa 2004 with a serial number F630XXX engraved between the lugs. The watch is in superb original condition.  It is unpolished, still having the case back sticker present.  It comes on a very tight 2004 production ("CL" code), stainless steel Oyster bracelet, with the improved flip lock deployant that was found on the Submariner models. This was another upgrade that happened to these more recent examples. The watch is also presented with original Rolex punched papers, issued in Hong Kong which also has a the luck country code "888" punched into the papers, pre the serial. A positive addition for those that love the lucky number eight!  The papers are also blank, which is nothing particularly special.  But, allows the new owner's name to be added to them, if so desired.  A pleasant additional touch.  The watch comes also with its original Rolex plastic tag with serial number printed on it. A small detail, but a nice one, and more unusual to find.

This watch is really the only sport watch in the Rolex stable that is truly versatile when dressing it.  Being a thirty six millimeter case, it can fit neatly under a shirt cuff, and suit jacket.  The clean black dial has a more refined appearance, and the lack of bezel keeps the profile low and more elegant overall.  Concomitantly, it can look great with a white t-shirt and jeans.  This early production number comes without the engraved rehaut, which adds a very unnecessary extra detail to a clean design. The watch comes with a Foundwell one-year warranty against mechanical failure. This is a superb looking, and hard to find complete unpolished example of a model that is increasing in its popularity.