RolexExplorer Reference Guide

A complete chronological reference for every Rolex Explorer and Explorer II reference — movements, dial variants, production years, and the story behind each model. Schematic illustrations are generated from technical specifications.

8 Explorer I references · 5 Explorer II references · 1953 – present

Explorer I — The Original

Born from the 1953 Everest expedition. A no-date 36mm (later 39mm, then 36mm again) sport watch defined by its black dial, 3-6-9 Arabic numerals, and Mercedes hour hand.

Ref. 6098

Reference 6098

1953–1954 · 36mm · Cal. 1030

"Broad Arrow / Pre-Explorer"

Ref. 6350

Reference 6350

1953–1955 · 36mm · Cal. 1030

"First Explorer"

Ref. 6610

Reference 6610

1955–1959 · 36mm · Cal. 1030

"Pre-1016"

Ref. 1016

Reference 1016

1959–1989 · 36mm · Cal. 1560

"The Classic Explorer"

Ref. 14270

Reference 14270

1989–2001 · 36mm · Cal. 3000

Ref. 114270

Reference 114270

2001–2010 · 36mm · Cal. 3130

Ref. 214270

Reference 214270

2010–2021 · 39mm · Cal. 3132

"MK1 & MK2"

Ref. 124270

Reference 124270

2021–present · 36mm · Cal. 3230

"The Return"

Explorer II — The Caver's Tool

Launched in 1971 for spelunkers who lose track of day and night underground. Features a fixed 24-hour bezel and distinctive GMT hand, date display, and a larger 40–42mm case.

Ref. 1655

Reference 1655

1971–1985 · 40mm · Cal. 1570

"Freccione / Steve McQueen"

Ref. 16550

Reference 16550

1985–1989 · 40mm · Cal. 3085

"Rail Dial"

Ref. 16570

Reference 16570

1989–2011 · 40mm · Cal. 3185

Ref. 216570

Reference 216570

2011–2021 · 42mm · Cal. 3187

"Maxi Case"

Ref. 226570

Reference 226570

2021–present · 42mm · Cal. 3285