At BQ Watches, we specialise in sourcing and offering genuine pre owned Rolex Explorer watches, each one carefully verified, professionally maintained, and finely prepared before it reaches you. Our in-house rolex experts follow the strictest standards of quality and precision, ensuring you have complete peace of mind when selecting your Explorer in the UK.
Explore our handpicked range of used Explorer I and Explorer II models below, from early 36mm classics to contemporary 40mm and 42mm references. Whether you prefer the simplicity of the Explorer I or the dual time practicality of the Explorer II Polar, our collection showcases every era of Rolex craftsmanship.
At BQ Watches, choosing a pre owned Rolex Explorer is a seamless, safety first experience. Every watch is verified for originality, dispatched under full insurance, and backed by same day bank payment. Supported by our permanent showroom and clear written valuations, we’re the trusted UK home for Rolex Explorer buyers.
At BQ Watches, we think that buying a pre-owned Rolex Explorer is the ideal means of tapping into the legacy of this timeless watch while gaining outstanding value. Through us, you have access to discontinued references, hard-to-find dial colors, and unique designs no longer on the retail market.
By choosing pre-owned, it ensures bypassing the mark ups and lengthy waiting lists, yet preserving the authenticity and prestige of Rolex ownership. And when it is time to trade up or modify your collection, we make selling or trading your Rolex Explorer back to us seamless, providing total flexibility and confidence every step of the way.
The price of a second hand Rolex Explorer in the UK is influenced by a combination of heritage, scarcity, and need. The Explorer differs from most luxury products in that it tends to hold or increase value over time, and therefore presents a good investment option for collectors and newcomers alike.
Several factors influence market valuation and appraisal:
Condition & Novelty: Unworn cases, brand new lume, and unaltered dials fetch high premiums.
Reference & Era: Retro references such as 1655 and 16570 are particularly sought after, but contemporary 124270 and 224270 models attract buyers with newer technology.
Dial Variations: Gilt dial Explorer Is and the white “Polar” Explorer IIs are highly prized.
Size & Proportions: Shifts from 36mm to 39mm, 40mm, and 42mm significantly affect demand.
Box & Papers: Complete sets with original Rolex documentation enhance collectability and buyer confidence.
UK Provenance: Watches sold and serviced in the UK provide additional reassurance to local buyers.
At BQ Watches, we guarantee the best price when you buy a pre owned Rolex Explorer with us, supported by decades of expertise and transparent appraisals. Whether you’re looking to buy, sell, or exchange your Explorer, we ensure you achieve the strongest possible value, backed by immediate payment and no hidden costs.
The Rolex Explorer first came out in 1953 to commemorate the very first successful climb of Mount Everest. Conceived in Rolex prototypes that had been tried and tested at high altitudes, it paired a rugged Oyster case, a luminous black dial with 3 6 9 numerals, and water-resistant design to be the ultimate adventurer's tool watch.
Throughout the years, Rolex perfected the Explorer with significant milestones: the introduction of the Explorer II in 1971 with its 24 hour bezel and orange GMT hand, the years long 16570 with its Polar dial, and the introduction of increased case size in subsequent generations. In 2021, the Explorer I came back to its original 36mm size as well as a Rolesor version, followed by the 224270 at 40mm in 2023.
Enduring in style and engineered for durability, the Rolex Explorer stands among the most versatile Rolex watches, celebrated worldwide as a lasting symbol of adventure and accomplishment. As part of the broader Rolex family, the Explorer sits alongside other iconic used Rolex watches, all of which share the same DNA of precision, durability, and timeless design.
The Rolex Explorer has been produced in many variations, but a handful of references stand out for their heritage, design features, and enduring demand in the UK pre owned market.
Reference 224270 (2023–present)
The latest Explorer I in 40mm, driven by calibre 3230 with 70 hour power reserve. Collectors appreciate its contemporary proportions while keeping design heritage.
Reference 124270 (2021–present)
A loyal return to the vintage 36mm size, pairing classic Explorer proportions with cutting-edge Rolex technology.
Reference 214270 (2010–2020)
The original 39mm Explorer I, with MK II models having fully lumed numerals. Extremely prized for the combination of tradition and modern styling.
Reference 16570 (1989–2011)
A practical 40mm Explorer II with black or white "Polar" dials, renowned for its extended production series and functionality.
Reference 1655 (1971–1985)
The original Explorer II, the "Freccione." Its bright orange GMT hand and scarcity make it one of the most sought-after Rolex sports watches.
Reference 216570 (2011–2021)
A 42mm large-handed Explorer II with calibre 3187, introducing the watch to the tastes of contemporary customers preferring a greater wrist presence.
Each Rolex Explorer is crafted with the signature Oyster case, delivering durability and water resistance. The Explorer I is distinguished by its clean black dial and luminous 3 6 9 hour markers, while the Explorer II introduces a 24 hour bezel and comes in either a classic black or the sought after white “Polar” dial. Available in 36mm, 39mm, 40mm, and 42mm sizes, the Explorer range caters to both purists who favour tradition and collectors who prefer a modern wrist presence.
Few Rolex models embody purpose as clearly as the Explorer. Designed as a professional tool watch, it has since become universally wearable.Men often favour the 39mm, 40mm, or 42mm versions for their presence, while women frequently choose the 36mm Explorer I for its balance of tradition and elegance. Its minimalist design makes it one of the most versatile and enduring Rolex creations.
At BQ Watches, we don’t just sell, we also source. If your preferred Rolex Explorer isn’t in our current selection, our London based experts can locate it for you quickly and securely, ensuring you get the exact model you want.
