Rolex
explorer 1 luminova vintage - classic chronometer

simple and comfortable...

Vintage Rolex collector’s watch — Explorer 1 model ref. 14270 with Luminova "3-6-9" dial and a 2001 stainless steel case. A simple and comfortable watch with elegant lines and a wearable 36 mm diameter. Its nickname "3-6-9" among collectors comes from the large numerals at three, six, and nine o’clock on its black dial. This Rolex Explorer is a modernized descendant of the ref. 6098 offered by Rolex and worn by Sir Edmund Hillary during the conquest of Everest on May 29, 1953. The 14270 is the first Explorer model to feature a sapphire crystal and is also COSC chronometer certified.

Production of the Rolex Explorer began in late 1952 with reference 6150 under the “Precision” label, featuring a 36 mm case. This early model was produced in small numbers based on the 6098. In 1953, the watch was released as ref. 6350 under the name Explorer. It could be specially prepared for “extreme temperature” use with lubricating oils that allowed its movement to function flawlessly across a temperature range of -20°C to +40°C. At the time, it was the only civilian-market watch capable of operating in such conditions.

In 1955, Rolex began producing the famous chronometer-certified caliber 1030, which successively equipped the Rolex Precision, Submariner, and Explorer models. This automatic movement was known for improved regulation, higher precision (mainly due to its bidirectional rotor), and a more compact height, allowing the Explorer’s case to be slimmed down for greater everyday comfort and urban wearability.

In 1961, the Rolex Explorer 1016 was launched and produced until 1989. It defined the modern Explorer’s key traits: an expandable-link bracelet (replaced in 1975 by the solid-link Oyster bracelet), a caliber 1560 with Breguet hairspring operating at 19,800 vph, and later the caliber 1570 with stop-seconds adjustment via the crown, allowing precise synchronization to the second. This watch was well received globally and was produced in military versions for fighter pilots (notably in Spain and West Germany). A small series was even created under the name Space-Dweller in an attempt to compete in the space race (ultimately won by the Omega Speedmaster). A white-dial version of the 1016 prefigured the future Explorer II White Dial.

1989 marked the arrival of the Rolex Explorer 14270, known as the modern "three-six-nine": with a 36 mm rounded stainless steel case, scratch-resistant sapphire crystal, a black dial with high contrast Luminova indexes and white gold-ringed luminescent 3-6-9 numerals, this collector’s watch exudes classic elegance and timeless refinement — a forerunner to its commercial success and growing popularity.

Powered by the Rolex caliber 3130 with 27 jewels, COSC chronometer-certified, the self-winding movement includes a bidirectional perpetual rotor. It features a Breguet hairspring and a Glucydur balance wheel (resistant to temperature changes), along with a “KIF” shock absorber. Beating at 28,800 vibrations per hour, the watch includes a stop-seconds function for precise time-setting. The Explorer also offers a 42-hour power reserve and water resistance up to 100 meters.

The watch is sold with all its original links, making it suitable for any wrist size, male or female. A locking and adjustable Fliplock folding clasp ensures a secure and comfortable fit. This pre-owned piece is in collector-grade condition, very close to like-new.

Discover the history of watch brands and their models on our watch history page.