Rolex Explorer 14270 - Black Tritium Dial - Full Set - NOS

Introduced in 1989, the Rolex Explorer reference 14270 marked a significant evolution of one of the maison’s most iconic tool watches. Replacing the long-running reference 1016, the 14270 brought the Explorer into a new era with a more modern case design, sapphire crystal, and a high-beat automatic movement, while retaining the understated and highly functional character that had defined the model since its origins.

The reference 14270 is particularly appreciated for its clean and timeless aesthetic, combining a 36 mm Oyster case with a black tritium dial, luminous Arabic numerals at 3, 6 and 9 o’clock, and the unmistakable Mercedes hands. Its restrained design and compact proportions have allowed the Explorer to remain one of Rolex’s most versatile and enduring sports watches.

The present example is particularly noteworthy for its exceptional, virtually NOS condition, displaying what can best be described as a true “stockroom” or “dead-stock” state of preservation. The case and bracelet remain remarkably untouched, while portions of the original protective film are still present on the deployment clasp, an increasingly uncommon detail that strongly reinforces the originality and exceptional preservation of the watch.

The watch is accompanied by its set of original accessories and documentation, including its original box, outer box, calendar, red tag and Italian Warranty issued by Astrua, dated July 1996. The presence of the original period accessories, together with the Italian Astrua warranty, further enhances the provenance and completeness of the example.

Dating to July 1996, this Rolex Explorer reference 14270 represents an exceptional opportunity to acquire an example preserved in genuine “stockroom” condition, with its original protective film partially intact. The combination of its 36 mm proportions, classic black Explorer dial, virtually NOS preservation, original accessories, and Italian Astrua warranty dated July 1996 makes this a particularly compelling example for collectors seeking originality, completeness, and one of the finest-preserved expressions of the modern Explorer.