Shop the Rolex Explorer range at Chronofinder. Known for its rugged design and exceptional precision, these iconic timepieces are built for adventure. Available in various sizes, including Explorer I and Explorer II models, perfect for explorers and collectors alike.
The Rolex Explorer was born in 1953 and worn on the wrists of Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay during the first successful ascent of Everest. Seventy years on, the clean black dial, 3-6-9 numerals and Oyster case remain largely unchanged.
The Explorer I is one of the most restrained and purposeful watches in the Rolex range, while the Explorer II adds a date, 24-hour hand and a larger 42mm case for buyers who want more functionality alongside the same field-watch spirit.
Pre-owned Rolex Explorer prices vary depending on the reference, generation and model line. On the secondary market in the UK, Rolex Explorer prices typically range from around £6,500 for an older Explorer I or Explorer II reference to £10,500 for a current-generation Explorer II in full-set condition.
The collection sits at a competitive price point within Rolex’s sports range, making it one of the more accessible options for buyers seeking a capable, unfussy watch.
| Model | Pre-Owned Price Range |
|---|---|
| Explorer 36mm (ref. 114270, 124270) | From around £6,750 to £8,000 |
| Explorer 39mm/40mm (ref. 214270, 224270) | From around £6,500 to £8,500 |
| Explorer II 42mm (ref. 16570, 216570, 226570) | From around £6,500 to £10,500 |
The Explorer 36mm models cover the original case size and remain the purist’s choice within the collection. The ref. 114270 is the older generation and represents the lower end of the range, with confirmed pre-owned examples at Chronofinder starting from £6,750. The current ref. 124270, reintroduced in 2021 as a return to 36mm after a decade at 39mm, sits from around £7,000 to £8,000 depending on condition and papers.
The discontinued ref. 214270 in 39mm, produced from 2010 to 2021, represents the most accessible entry point in the Explorer I range, with pre-owned examples from around £6,500. The current ref. 224270 in 40mm, launched in 2023 with the Calibre 3230 movement, is the latest Explorer I and sits from around £7,000 to £8,500.
Explorer II models span three generations and the widest price range in the collection. The older ref. 16570 in 40mm starts from around £6,500, making it the most affordable Explorer II on the pre-owned market.
The mid-generation ref. 216570 in 42mm sits from around £8,450, with confirmed Chronofinder examples at £8,450 to £8,650. The current ref. 226570, available in black or white polar dial, starts from £9,450 at Chronofinder and reaches up to around £10,500 for full set examples.
Age and generation play the biggest role in pricing across both model lines. Current-generation pieces such as the 124270, 224270 and 226570 command a premium over their predecessors, reflecting the updated Calibre 3230 movement and more recent production.
Within the Explorer II specifically, the jump from the 16570 to the 216570 and 226570 is also driven by the increase in case size from 40mm to 42mm. Dial colour plays a role in Explorer II pricing too, with the white Polar dial and black dial each attracting different levels of demand depending on the reference.
As with all pre-owned Rolex, condition and the presence of the original box and papers will influence the final price.
Chronofinder offers flexible finance options on pre-owned Rolex Explorer watches, subject to status. You can spread the cost over 12 months at 0% APR, or choose a longer term from 24 to 60 months at 11.9% APR Representative. Finance is provided by Novuna Personal Finance, part of Mitsubishi HC Capital UK PLC. Chronofinder acts as a credit broker, not a lender.
For full details on finance eligibility and terms, visit our Finance FAQs page.
