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The quintessential adventurer's Rolex. A tribute to Edmund Hillary and Everest.
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Expert offer in 4h
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Payment within 48h
Resale range
9 100 € — 13 000 €
In 2026, a Rolex Explorer 124270 36mm in steel commands between £7,600 and £10,870 on the secondary market, against a boutique retail price of approximately £6,560. The 124273 Two-Tone version (steel/yellow gold, launched 2023) is rarer and commands higher values.
The Rolex Explorer was launched in 1953 to celebrate the first ascent of Everest by Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay. With its clean black dial and luminous 3-6-9 indices, it is the purest and most understated of all Rolex sports models — a watch that says everything without needing to shout.
The current reference 124270 (36mm) or 124273 Two-Tone returned to the historic 36mm format in 2021 following a few years in 39mm. It is the most discreet Rolex sports watch — a model for those who prefer substance to statement.
Authentication of the Explorer begins with the serial number between the lugs, the reference at 12 o'clock, and the original papers. The clean black dial with 3-6-9 luminous indices must be perfectly aligned and free of any print irregularity.
The domed sapphire crystal is virtually unscratchable. The Triplock winding crown guarantees 100m water resistance. The Oyster bracelet closes with an Easylink deployant clasp. The calibre 3230 movement is Rolex manufacture with a 70-hour power reserve.
The Explorer 36mm ref. 124270 is the purest and most liquid version. The Two-Tone version 124273 (launched 2023, steel/yellow gold) is rarer and achieves higher values. The previous reference 214270 (39mm) commands a stable value but with less enthusiasm than the 36mm.
HAUTANE values the Explorer according to the strictest Rolex standards. The model benefits from growing demand since the return to the 36mm format. In consignment, average sale time of 10 days. With immediate buyback, payment within 48 hours after appraisal.
The return to the 36mm format in 2021 was celebrated by purists and the new reference 124270 benefits from growing demand. The previous 39mm (214270) commands a stable value but with less enthusiasm than the 36mm.
These are two distinct watches. The Explorer (36mm/39mm) is minimalist and sport-chic. The Explorer II (42mm) is more sporting with a GMT function. Both command solid values but appeal to different audiences.
Yes, it is one of the most versatile Rolex sports models. The 36mm format suits most wrist sizes, the clean dial adapts to all occasions, and Rolex's renowned robustness allows intensive everyday wear.
The Explorer tracks Rolex's retail price increases (3 to 6% per year). Its secondary market premium (above retail) is more modest than the Submariner or Daytona, but its value remains solid and consistent.
In consignment, expect 7 to 14 days for an Explorer 124270 in excellent condition with a full set. The Two-Tone version may take slightly longer. With immediate buyback, payment within 48 hours.
Free valuation in 4 hours, buyback within 48h or premium consignment up to 95%.
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