Introducing: Two New 36mm Rolex Explorers (And One Is Two-Tone!)

In an unlikely turn of events, Rolex has just unveiled two new Explorer models. The first is the stainless steel Explorer you all know and love, now 36mm. The second is a 36mm Explorer rendered in two-tone Rolesor. There were no rumors swirling around the watch internet of its release; no grainy renderings foreshadowed its unveiling. It was a complete shocker, and that's because it's the first-ever Explorer in two-tone featuring the iconic "3, 6, and 9" dial that debuted with the ref. 1016. Besides being sized-down, the new Oystersteel Explorer, ref. 124270, received another visual change: The "Explorer" text moved back up to the 12 o'clock position. At the time of publishing, there is only a single picture available, but we'll be updating as they emerge. Additionally, the Oystersteel reference comes with a price decrease , a surprise that will surely please fans of the model. While the stainless model is sure to be a hit, it's the other Explorer that's getting folks talking. The new Rolesor model, ref. 124273, comes in at 36mm, the size of the original Explorer model that was launched after Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay successfully completed the first summit of Everest in 1953. The yellow Rolesor case and bracelet are a combination of Oystersteel and 18k yellow gold. The dial is lacquered as well, to match the elevated nature of this new Explorer. Inside is the caliber 3230. Released in 2020, the antimagnetic movement features Rolex's signature Chronergy escapement and a blue Parachrom hairspring. A highly efficient movement, it has a power reserve of 70 hours. Like any Rolex model, the technical specs are absolutely in line with the industry-leading innovation the brand is known for. It's a surprise to no one that this new model boasts a new top-spec caliber, proprietary case and bracelet materials, and construction. But why does the release come as such a shock? Well, to start with, the Explorer has built a reputation over the last half a century as one of the most stoic offerings from the Crown. It's changed very little since the introduction of the ref. 1016 in 1963, the spiritual ancestor of the modern Explorer. It's also never been rendered in anything other than stainless steel for over 50 years. So the introduction of a bit of 18k yellow gold in the form of a crown, bezel, and center links raises some eyebrows. Still, other so-called sports models have been rendered in two-tone for decades, like the Submariner, Sea-Dweller, GMT-Master, and GMT-Master II. The move might simply be shocking because the Explorer had traditionally been placed closer to the "tool" end of the spectrum, but now with the release of this new 36mm Rolesor variant, it takes on a whole new luxurious character. Now, all we need is a bottle of champagne and caviar waiting at the summit of Mt. Everest for when the new 36mm Rolesor Explorer makes its triumphant return. The new Explorer is 36mm and features the caliber 3230 with a 70-hour power reserve. One model is rendered in Oystersteel and another is in Rolesor. The Oystersteel model is ref. 124270 and the Rolesor model is ref. 124273. The watches will be available at Rolex boutiques and authorized dealers for $6,540 (ref. 124270) and $10,800 (ref. 124273). For more, visit Rolex .It's the Explorer no one saw coming.