​Rolex has introduced a new generation of Oyster Perpetual Explorer watches. The new 36mm case is the same size as those worn by Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay on their first summit on May 29, 1953.​
The new explorer comes in gold steel (oyster steel and 18CT gold). The black lacquered dial, paired with classic clock markers and numbers 3, 6 and 9, highlights the unique personality of the watch and the explorer's determination and spirit of adventure to challenge the unknown and achieve great things.​

The Explorer's Chromalight display is especially eye-catching. Hands and hour marks are painted with luminous material, emitting persistent blue light in the dark. In daylight, the hour markers appear white.

Introduced in 1953, the Explorer watch symbolizes Rolex's enduring connection to the world of adventure. In the 1930s, the brand used Rolex oyster watches for many Himalayan expeditions. These included Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay's first ascent to 8,848 metres 29,028 feet) of Mount Everest.

In a pioneering move, Rolex hopes to improve watches by using the world as a laboratory to test their performance in real-world conditions. The input and feedback Rolex receives from these expeditions has a direct impact on the design of the watch, making it more accurate, robust and reliable.​