Rolex’s Explorer watch will forever be remembered as the timepiece that was able to withstand even the extreme conditions of Mount Everest after Sir Edmund Hillary wore the original example on his wrist when he reached the summit of the unforgiving peak with Tenzing Norgay in 1953.
The newest model of the Explorer—revealed at Baselworld 2016 and currently available—embodies the legacy of Hillary’s legendary timepiece by using top-of-the-line materials and craftsmanship with a super powerful movement worthy of Rolex’s certification.
The 39 mm Explorer’s case and accompanying bracelet are both made from 9401L stainless steel, which is a strong and corrosion-resistant metal. The winding crown is equipped with Rolex’s Twinlock double waterproofness system and is guaranteed to withstand waters of up to 330 feet. On top of everything, the caseback of the Explorer is actually hermetically sealed to prevent anything from getting in.
Powering the Explorer is Rolex’s automatic caliber 3132 boasting its exclusive Parachrom (a special alloy) hairspring that is all made in house. The movement is designed for increased shock resistance and has antimagnetic properties to make sure time is told as accurately as possible no matter what condition the watch and its wearer find themselves in.
Rolex offers its Explorer watch for around $6,400.