The Explorer is one of Rolex’s original professional watches and has been updated with a new 40 mm case — alongside the existing 36 mm model (the 39 mm was discontinued 2 years ago).

While 2023 is the 70th anniversary of the Explorer (it was first introduced in 1953), there’s nothing marking it as an anniversary model. In fact, the new Explorer 40 does not look that much different than the discontinued 39 mm version, which means this is more of an iterative update than anything — just the way Rolex prefers it.

The Explorer 40 features a new 40 mm diameter stainless steel case and a subtly redesigned black dial which has been given enhanced legibility compared to the past 39 mm model, which was powered by the older caliber 3132, and the existing 36 mm version.

Rolex’s automatic bidirectional caliber 3230, with its Paramagnetic blue Parachrom and Paraflex shock absorbers, has a maximum power reserve of 70 hours, and drives center hours, minutes, and seconds, as well as offering stop seconds functionality for precise time setting down to the second.

The Rolex Explorer 40 (Ref. 224270-0001) comes with an integrated folding stainless steel Oysterlock safety clasp with Easylink 5 mm comfort extension link. The Explorer 40 has a twin lock screw-down crown and a depth rating of 100 meters. The retail price is $7,700.

 

Photos by Rolex.