Rolex Explorer 1 Review (Ref. 124270): The Best Everyday Luxury Watch?

Looking for a no-nonsense, everyday Rolex that blends rugged durability with understated elegance? Enter the Rolex Explorer 1, reference 124270 — a 36mm steel sports watch that’s steeped in history and built for modern life.

In this hands-on review, we’ll break down why the Rolex Explorer might be the best value luxury sports watch in the Rolex lineup right now.

Why Choose the Rolex Explorer 1?

The Rolex Explorer isn’t flashy. And that’s exactly the point.

Born from the legacy of the 1953 Everest expedition (it did not go on the Expedition, but Rolex launched the watch on the back of it having captured the imagination of the general public worldwide and deployed some savvy marketing to trump the actual watch that did go with the expedition), the Explorer 1 was designed to be tough, legible, and reliable for all kinds of explorers - either on Everest or the streets of a capital city. It’s one of Rolex’s most enduring models — and one of its most versatile.

With no date, no complications, and a clean black dial, the Explorer 1 ref. 124270 is the definition of a purpose-built tool watch. It’s equally at home in a boardroom, on a hiking trail, or under a shirt cuff.

Rolex Explorer 1 Specs (Ref. 124270)

Case Size: 36mm diameter
Lug-to-Lug: 43mm
Thickness: 11.5mm
Lug Width: 19mm
Material: Oystersteel (904L stainless steel)
Crystal: Domed sapphire with internal AR coating
Water Resistance: 100 meters
Movement: Calibre 3230 automatic movement
Accuracy: Superlative Chronometer (-2/+2 sec/day)
Power Reserve: 70 hours
Bracelet: Oyster bracelet with Oysterlock clasp & micro-adjustment
Dial: Glossy black with Chromalight luminescence

Design & Wearability

The Explorer 1 36mm wears larger than the size suggests, thanks to its slim bezel and polished accents. On the wrist, it feels compact, refined, and capable.

Highlights include:

Mercedes hands and bold Arabic numerals (3, 6, 9)
High legibility in low light, thanks to Chromalight lume
Perfect proportions in the 36mm case (arguably better balanced than the 40mm version)

The Oyster bracelet is rugged but tapers nicely for comfort. The polished case sides and bezel add just enough shine to make the watch pop without being flashy.

Everyday Use

What makes the Rolex Explorer 1 special is how seamlessly it fits into your life. It’s:

Tough enough for outdoor adventures
Elegant enough for formal settings
Comfortable enough for all-day wear

This isn’t just a watch to admire — it’s built to be worn and used.

Is the Rolex Explorer 1 Worth It?

Price (2025): £6,400 MSRP
Current resale value: As per MSRP for a minter.

For a Rolex with this level of heritage, finishing, and versatility, the Explorer offers excellent value — especially compared to other models in the lineup. And while it may not be a pure investment piece, it holds value well and offers long-term satisfaction.

If you’re considering a standard Oyster Perpetual, you’ll save some money but miss out on key features: Mercedes hands, a professional-grade clasp, and the Explorer’s iconic heritage.

Final Thoughts: Is This the Best Rolex Sports Watch?

The Rolex Explorer 1 (ref. 124270) isn’t flashy or feature-packed. But that’s its strength. It’s one of the most balanced, reliable, and wearable watches Rolex makes.

If you’re looking for a one-watch collection, an everyday luxury timepiece, or a rugged companion with history, the Explorer 1 should be on your shortlist.

Simple. Durable. Iconic: The Explorer 1 might just be the best everyday Rolex you can buy.