The Rolex Explorer I introduced in 2010 is reference 214270. It replaced the preceding Explorer reference 114270 and increased the classic Explorer’s case diameter from 36 millimetres to 39 millimetres.
Reference 214270 preserved the model’s defining identity: a simple, highly legible black dial with the distinctive 3-6-9 Arabic numerals. It was designed as a robust “tool watch,” continuing the Explorer tradition associated with mountaineering and expeditions rather than adding a date or rotating timing bezel.
The alternatives refer to different watches or generations. Reference 216570 is the Explorer II introduced in 2011, while 16570 is an earlier Explorer II reference. Reference 114270 is the 36-millimetre Explorer I that preceded the 214270.
The 214270’s larger case created a notable change in wrist presence, but it remained mechanically straightforward and highly recognizable. Rolex later returned the Explorer I to a 36-millimetre case in 2021, making the 214270 especially useful as the reference associated with the 2010 39-millimetre generation.