Rolex Explorer 39 - 214270 - MK1 Dial - Complete
Watch Info
Manufacturer: Rolex
Model: Explorer
Condition: Excellent (Pre-Owned)
Reference: 214270
Year: 2013
Box: Yes
Papers: Yes
Accessories: Complete Set. Includes Rolex inner and outer boxes, 2013 Warranty Card, manuals, and green chronometer hangtag. Note: The white serial hangtag is not included.
Notes: The 214270 Mk1 is the original 39mm Explorer — the first iteration of this reference, featuring the earlier painted hour markers rather than the applied markers introduced with the Mk2 in 2016. Among serious Explorer collectors, the Mk1 vs Mk2 distinction is a meaningful one — the painted markers give the Mk1 dial a flatter, more vintage-inspired character that connects more directly to the Explorer's historical aesthetic, while the Mk2's applied markers deliver greater three-dimensional depth. Neither is objectively superior — both are correct factory configurations — but the Mk1 has developed a devoted following among purists who prefer the reference's original dial presentation. A 2013 warranty card places this example in the earlier production years of the 214270's run, making it a well-documented early example of the reference. Powered by the Calibre 3132 with Parachrom hairspring and anti-magnetic soft-iron inner cage, this is the Explorer at its most historically grounded.
Condition Assessment
Overall Condition: Pre-Owned - Excellent. This 2013 example has been carefully worn and presents in excellent cosmetic condition throughout. The case and bracelet retain strong factory finishing consistent with careful use.
Dial, Hands, & Crystal: The black Mk1 dial is pristine — the painted hour markers and Mercedes hands are in perfect condition. The Chromalight lume fill is in excellent condition. The sapphire crystal is mint and free of any chips or scratches.
Case & Bezel: The 39mm Oystersteel case retains strong factory lines with well-defined lug profiles. The smooth polished bezel is in excellent condition. The case flanks show light, honest surface marks consistent with careful use.
Bracelet & Clasp: The Oyster bracelet is tight with no stretch. The polished center links show typical light surface hairlines consistent with careful use. The Oysterlock safety clasp with Easylink 5mm extension functions perfectly.
Technical Specifications
Reference: 214270
Case Size: 39mm
Case Material: Oystersteel (904L)
Dial: Black Mk1 with Painted Hour Markers
Movement: Calibre 3132 (Manufacture Rolex, Automatic)
Power Reserve: Approximately 48 Hours
Water Resistance: 100m
Notable Details: Mk1 painted dial markers, Parachrom hairspring, anti-magnetic soft-iron inner cage, and early production 2013 example.
Why the 214270 Mk1 is the Purist's Explorer
The Explorer is the watch that Rolex built for the mountains — a reference whose origins trace directly to the 1953 ascent of Everest by Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay, and whose design philosophy has remained essentially unchanged since: legible dial, robust case, reliable movement, nothing superfluous. The 214270 Mk1 is the original expression of the 39mm generation — the dial that first appeared on the reference before the 2016 update, carrying the painted markers that connect it most directly to the Explorer's vintage roots.
A 2013 complete set example in excellent condition represents a strong provenance package for an early-production 214270 Mk1 — a reference whose collector appreciation continues to grow as availability of well-documented examples tightens. For the collector who wants the Explorer in its original 39mm, painted-marker configuration with full early documentation, this is a compelling and honestly presented example.
Why Buy From Us
We guarantee authenticity on every watch we sell, using detailed photographs to ensure when you receive your watch, there are no surprises!
Authentication Guaranteed: Every watch undergoes rigorous verification—serial number cross-check, movement analysis, and full condition report.
Transparent Condition Reporting: We document every detail—both strengths and minor imperfections—so you know exactly what you're purchasing.
Secure Shipping: Your watch ships via fully insured, tracked service (e.g., FedEx Overnight) with signature required.
Post-Sale Support: We are available for servicing and maintenance, and are also happy to make suggestions for accessories (straps, winders, storage, etc…)
Watch Info
Manufacturer: Rolex
Model: Explorer
Condition: Excellent (Pre-Owned)
Reference: 214270
Year: 2013
Box: Yes
Papers: Yes
Accessories: Complete Set. Includes Rolex inner and outer boxes, 2013 Warranty Card, manuals, and green chronometer hangtag. Note: The white serial hangtag is not included.
Notes: The 214270 Mk1 is the original 39mm Explorer — the first iteration of this reference, featuring the earlier painted hour markers rather than the applied markers introduced with the Mk2 in 2016. Among serious Explorer collectors, the Mk1 vs Mk2 distinction is a meaningful one — the painted markers give the Mk1 dial a flatter, more vintage-inspired character that connects more directly to the Explorer's historical aesthetic, while the Mk2's applied markers deliver greater three-dimensional depth. Neither is objectively superior — both are correct factory configurations — but the Mk1 has developed a devoted following among purists who prefer the reference's original dial presentation. A 2013 warranty card places this example in the earlier production years of the 214270's run, making it a well-documented early example of the reference. Powered by the Calibre 3132 with Parachrom hairspring and anti-magnetic soft-iron inner cage, this is the Explorer at its most historically grounded.
Condition Assessment
Overall Condition: Pre-Owned - Excellent. This 2013 example has been carefully worn and presents in excellent cosmetic condition throughout. The case and bracelet retain strong factory finishing consistent with careful use.
Dial, Hands, & Crystal: The black Mk1 dial is pristine — the painted hour markers and Mercedes hands are in perfect condition. The Chromalight lume fill is in excellent condition. The sapphire crystal is mint and free of any chips or scratches.
Case & Bezel: The 39mm Oystersteel case retains strong factory lines with well-defined lug profiles. The smooth polished bezel is in excellent condition. The case flanks show light, honest surface marks consistent with careful use.
Bracelet & Clasp: The Oyster bracelet is tight with no stretch. The polished center links show typical light surface hairlines consistent with careful use. The Oysterlock safety clasp with Easylink 5mm extension functions perfectly.
Technical Specifications
Reference: 214270
Case Size: 39mm
Case Material: Oystersteel (904L)
Dial: Black Mk1 with Painted Hour Markers
Movement: Calibre 3132 (Manufacture Rolex, Automatic)
Power Reserve: Approximately 48 Hours
Water Resistance: 100m
Notable Details: Mk1 painted dial markers, Parachrom hairspring, anti-magnetic soft-iron inner cage, and early production 2013 example.
Why the 214270 Mk1 is the Purist's Explorer
The Explorer is the watch that Rolex built for the mountains — a reference whose origins trace directly to the 1953 ascent of Everest by Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay, and whose design philosophy has remained essentially unchanged since: legible dial, robust case, reliable movement, nothing superfluous. The 214270 Mk1 is the original expression of the 39mm generation — the dial that first appeared on the reference before the 2016 update, carrying the painted markers that connect it most directly to the Explorer's vintage roots.
A 2013 complete set example in excellent condition represents a strong provenance package for an early-production 214270 Mk1 — a reference whose collector appreciation continues to grow as availability of well-documented examples tightens. For the collector who wants the Explorer in its original 39mm, painted-marker configuration with full early documentation, this is a compelling and honestly presented example.
Why Buy From Us
We guarantee authenticity on every watch we sell, using detailed photographs to ensure when you receive your watch, there are no surprises!
Authentication Guaranteed: Every watch undergoes rigorous verification—serial number cross-check, movement analysis, and full condition report.
Transparent Condition Reporting: We document every detail—both strengths and minor imperfections—so you know exactly what you're purchasing.
Secure Shipping: Your watch ships via fully insured, tracked service (e.g., FedEx Overnight) with signature required.
Post-Sale Support: We are available for servicing and maintenance, and are also happy to make suggestions for accessories (straps, winders, storage, etc…)