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Rolex Explorer 36 - References, Prices and Owners' Reviews

4.7

(7 Reviews)

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(38)

The Rolex Explorer 36, reference 124270, is an iconic watch that embodies the spirit of adventure and watchmaking expertise of Rolex. Reintroduced in 2021, this 36mm version marks a return to the original dimensions of the model, offering a perfect combination of classic design and modern technologies.

History of the Rolex Explorer

Launched in 1953, the Rolex Explorer was designed to celebrate the first successful ascent of Mount Everest by Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay. Although the expedition members wore Rolex Oyster Perpetual watches, this feat inspired the creation of the Explorer, designed to withstand the most extreme conditions.

Design and Aesthetics

The Rolex Explorer 36 features a case made of Oystersteel, a 904L stainless steel alloy developed by Rolex for its exceptional corrosion resistance and impeccable finish. The 36 mm diameter case offers a discreet and elegant presence on the wrist, faithful to the original proportions of the model.

The black lacquered dial features the iconic numerals 3, 6 and 9, as well as indexes and hands filled with Chromalight, a Rolex-exclusive luminescent material that emits a long-lasting blue glow in the dark and appears bright white in daylight. This design ensures optimal readability in all conditions.

The smooth Oystersteel bezel gives the watch a sober and elegant appearance, faithful to the heritage of the Explorer. The flat sapphire crystal protects the dial from scratches, ensuring increased durability.

Movement and Performance

The Rolex Explorer 36 is powered by caliber 3230, a latest generation automatic movement developed and manufactured by Rolex. This movement offers a power reserve of approximately 70 hours and superlative chronometer-certified precision, with a variation of -2/+2 seconds per day after casing.

Caliber 3230 incorporates advanced technologies, such as the blue Parachrom hairspring, insensitive to magnetic fields and temperature variations, as well as Paraflex shock absorbers, improving shock resistance. The bidirectional rotor ensures efficient winding of the watch during wrist movements.

Bracelet and Confort

The watch is equipped with an Oyster steel bracelet, known for its robustness and comfort. This three flat link bracelet features a secure Oysterlock clasp, preventing accidental opening, and the Easylink system, allowing an easy 5mm adjustment for optimal comfort in all circumstances.

Waterproofing and Durability

The Explorer 36 is water resistant to 100 meters (10 ATM), thanks to its airtight case and Twinlock screw-down crown. This design guarantees reliable protection against water and dust, suitable for the most demanding environments.

Conclusion

The Rolex Explorer 36 combines tradition and modernity, offering a size faithful to the original dimensions while integrating contemporary technological advances. Its sleek design, robustness and cutting-edge movement make it an ideal watch for modern adventurers and watch enthusiasts looking for a timeless piece. Whether for everyday use or for daring explorations, the Rolex Explorer 36 is a faithful and elegant companion.

Get inspired by Dialicious owners' reviews to choose the Rolex Explorer that suits you best.

(Updated March 2025)

Owner reviews summary on Rolex Explorer 36

4.7

7 Reviews

4.9

Emotion

4.9

Design

5.0

Accuracy

4.9

Comfort

4.6

Robustness

3.9

Value for money

Secondary

Significance in a collection

Main

Rarely

Frequency to be worn

Often

Pleasure

Main motivation for buying

Investment

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Rolex Explorer 36 profile is based on 7 owner reviews

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Latest reviews on Rolex Explorer 36

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737

Conquering the summits

4.6

At first, nothing was predestined for this timepiece to enter my collection. Already having the Explorer 2 in my possession, I made the mistake of trying on this little Explorer, not so small, and it was love at first sight. It has a crazy charm, this plethora of details, this size, this presence, this brilliance made me fall in love with this little gem. My AD was able to find me a model in just 2 days. What a joy to wear it every day, it is discreet and so classy that I never tire of contemplating the 3-6-9 adorned with its lumibright. As you will have understood, I am crazy about it. It is very pleasant to wear even if the adjustment was a little too tight at first, the easylink has restored a little grace to my wrist. Far from the madness of Daytona and other GMT Masters, it really deserves to be an icon. I advise you to try it on to realize that you have a sleeping monster there

23 days ago

No photos yet

391

If I had to keep just one...

4.8

My first "nice" watch was the Rolex Explorer 39mm (MK1) in 2010. After several months of internet research and visits to retailers, I completely fell for the Explorer, even though Rolex decided to switch from 36mm to 39mm. I loved this model but thought that the 36mm would have been ideal, thus better respecting its history. A little over a year ago, I made the decision to sell it to get the new 36mm version (reference 124270). Here we are… This watch is simply exceptional, with notable improvements over the previous ones: the 3230 movement offering 72 hours of power reserve, blue luminescence on all the indexes, a very beautiful black lacquered dial and a particularly solid bracelet. What I particularly like is its comfort, much better than the 39 mm and even the new 40 mm. It is a watch that is both sporty and chic, offering a beautiful presence while remaining discreet. With a wrist of more than 17 cm, some may find it a little "small", especially because of the 19/14 bracelet which makes it thinner. But believe me, after a few days, you get used to it, and you quickly realize that it is actually an advantage, because the dial stands out more and the comfort is fabulous. I have a collection of four watches, and this is without a doubt the one I wear the most. So yes, if I had to keep only one, it would be the Explorer 36.

a month ago

No photos yet

248

My little classic!

5.0

a great classic this explorer 36 mm. No bad taste. Sober design and legendary origin. So classy in all circumstances. Its plus: it goes super well with a feminine wrist with its 36 mm. Besides, it is she who wears it :) this explorer is simple I will never part with it because it is the very essence of Rolex! My model is from 2001, a major overhaul was necessary 2 years ago. It is like new but with this little extra soul that its 25 springs give it.

3 months ago

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