The Rolex Explorer reference 124273-0001 is a 36mm luxury sports watch that combines Rolex’s proprietary Oystersteel with 18k yellow gold in a signature Rolesor finish. This model marks a significant departure for the Explorer collection, which was historically available only in stainless steel. It features a black lacquer dial with the iconic 3-6-9 Arabic numeral layout, complemented by gold-surrounded hour markers and Mercedes-style hands. The dial utilizes Chromalight luminescence, which emits a long-lasting blue glow for visibility in low-light conditions. The watch is presented on a two-tone Oyster bracelet equipped with an Oysterlock safety clasp and the Easylink 5mm comfort extension system.
At its core, the timepiece is powered by the in-house caliber 3230, a self-winding mechanical movement that is a COSC-certified Superlative Chronometer. This movement incorporates a paramagnetic blue Parachrom hairspring and a Chronergy escapement, providing high resistance to shocks and magnetic fields while offering a power reserve of approximately 70 hours. The watch is a time-only model with no date or GMT complications, adhering to the collection’s focus on essential legibility and precision. Its Oyster case features a Twinlock double waterproofness system, ensuring water resistance up to 100 meters.
General reviews for the reference 124273-0001 often highlight its polarizing nature among enthusiasts due to the introduction of gold into a traditionally “pure” tool watch line. While some critics argue that the use of precious metal contradicts the Explorer’s rugged heritage, many collectors praise the model for its “urban elegance” and the warmth the gold adds to the classic design. The return to the original 36mm case size is widely viewed as a positive move, with reviewers noting that it offers superior proportions and a more balanced aesthetic compared to the previous 39mm version. Owners frequently commend the watch’s exceptional wearability and its ability to function as a versatile “one-watch” collection that bridges the gap between a professional sports watch and a dressier timepiece.