Baselworld 2016 wasn't just about the revival of the Air-King after a brief hiatus; it also marked a significant evolution for one of Rolex's most enduringly popular models: the Explorer. While the Air-King's re-emergence with its updated 40mm case size grabbed headlines, the subtle yet impactful refinements to the Explorer 1, specifically the reference 214270, demonstrated Rolex's commitment to continuous improvement within its classic designs. This article delves deep into the 2016 Rolex Explorer 39mm, exploring its features, design philosophy, and place within the broader context of Rolex's Baselworld 2016 collection.
The year 2016 saw Rolex unveil a refreshed Explorer I, moving away from the previous 36mm case size to a more contemporary 39mm. This seemingly small change, however, had significant implications for the watch's overall aesthetic and wearability. The increase in size provided a more substantial presence on the wrist without sacrificing the Explorer's inherent elegance and versatility. This update was a considered response to evolving consumer preferences and a reflection of Rolex's understanding of its target audience. The 39mm case felt more substantial and modern, appealing to a wider range of wrist sizes while maintaining the Explorer’s classic proportions.
Rolex Explorer 1 39mm 214270 2016: A Detailed Examination
The Rolex Explorer 214270, introduced at Baselworld 2016, wasn't a radical redesign. Instead, it represented a carefully calibrated evolution, enhancing existing features while maintaining the watch's core identity. The new 39mm Oyster case, crafted from 904L stainless steel, offered increased robustness and scratch resistance. This material choice, a hallmark of Rolex's commitment to quality, ensures the watch's enduring beauty and resilience.
The watch's dial, a key element of its character, retained the Explorer's signature minimalist design. The familiar black matte dial, punctuated by highly legible luminous hour markers and hands, remains highly functional and aesthetically pleasing. The updated dial layout, while maintaining its classic simplicity, showcased improved readability in low-light conditions, a crucial aspect for the watch's intended purpose. The luminescence, powered by Chromalight, provided exceptional visibility even in complete darkness, a testament to Rolex's dedication to practicality.
The movement within the 214270 is the calibre 3132, an in-house, self-winding mechanical movement. This highly reliable and precise movement boasts a power reserve of approximately 48 hours, ensuring consistent timekeeping even when the watch isn't worn for extended periods. The calibre 3132 is a testament to Rolex's horological expertise, incorporating sophisticated features such as a Parachrom hairspring, resistant to magnetic fields and shocks, and a high-performance Paraflex shock absorber. These advancements contribute to the watch's exceptional accuracy and durability.
The bracelet, another important aspect of the Explorer's design, remained true to its heritage. The Oyster bracelet, with its solid links and comfortable clasp, provided a secure and comfortable fit. The bracelet's robust construction mirrored the overall durability of the watch, ensuring it could withstand the rigors of daily wear. The Easylink comfort extension system, a subtle yet significant detail, allowed for quick and easy adjustment of the bracelet length, adapting to changing wrist sizes and conditions.
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