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1997 Rolex Explorer I 14270 - Stainless Steel Black Arabic Dial

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The Purest Form Of Rolex

The Explorer is Rolex at its most essential. Born from the successful 1953 Everest expedition, its design brief was simple: create the most legible, robust, and reliable watch possible. The reference 14270 is a critical chapter in that story, introducing modern features like a sapphire crystal and applied white gold markers to the classic 36mm format. It is a watch with one of the most legitimate origin stories in the industry, built for function above all else.


A Study In Exceptional Condition

What sets this U-serial example apart is its outstanding state of preservation. The internal notes highlight its mint case and bracelet, along with a perfect dial. For a tool watch approaching three decades old, finding one this well-kept is uncommon. It represents the 14270 as it was meant to be, a clean and sharp example of one of the most enduring designs of the 20th century.


Very Good, Verging On Mint

This watch is in very good overall condition. The stainless steel case is sharp, and the Oyster bracelet is in mint condition, showing excellent structure. The iconic black 3-6-9 dial is perfect. It is a crisp, honest example that has clearly been cared for throughout its life. As with every watch we offer, this piece has been verified as mechanically sound and is ready to wear.


The Choice For The Confident Collector

Many collectors arrive at the Explorer after owning more complicated or ostentatious pieces. They find that restraint is the ultimate form of sophistication. This is the watch for someone who has stopped trying to make a statement and simply wants the most capable and timeless timepiece Rolex has ever produced. Its 36mm size and clean lines make it a perfect daily companion that never feels out of place.


Key Specs

Reference: 14270
Model: Explorer I
Year: 1997
Movement: Automatic
Case Size: 36mm
Bezel: Smooth Stainless Steel
Bracelet: Oyster
Bracelet Length: Fits 6.75-7.5in
Dial: Black
Metal: Stainless Steel
SKU: 1232
Key Specs
Reference: 14270
Model: Explorer I
Year: 1997
Movement: Automatic
Case Size: 36mm
Bezel: Smooth Stainless Steel
Bracelet: Oyster
Bracelet Length: Fits 6.75-7.5in
Dial: Black
Metal: Stainless Steel
SKU: 1232

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Dan Young
4 months ago

I knew I was gonna like Danny, based on his name, but nothing could’ve prepared me for how great of an experience this was. He had the most beautiful 70s Seamaster Cosmic on his website and I was set to be married 2 days later - I arranged to buy it but before leaving we both realized it needed to be serviced. I panicked, because I was literally buying this for my wedding, and Danny being the legend he is, loaned me a nearly identical Seamaster to make sure I could get through the event Never have I had someone go so above and beyond for me, especially while purchasing one of the lesser priced items in their inventory. He serviced my watch and exchanged it with me after the wedding on a super fast turnaround timeline. I would sincerely recommend you visit this guy, you will not be disappointed Edit: adding a pic of the loaner (two tone) and the owner (crosshair)

Patrick Farella
5 months ago

Great service and shop. Danny and his team were incredibly accommodating, professional, and kind. Great selection of vintage watches. Their store is the hidden gem in the diamond district.

Zee06
2 months ago

This was my first real luxury watch purchase, a Rolex 15200 Date 34mm, I own Tissots and a Laco, but those are entry level luxury watches. I found Danny’s Vintage Watches online, and had great feedback both on Google, Chrono24 and the Reddit watch community. So decided to give him a shot as buying online can be a crap shoot. Ordered Monday night, was at my doorstep Friday morning. Despite the watch being over 30 years old, serial number says it’s from 91, the watch looked new. Didn’t come with box or papers, and was shipped in a plastic sleeve wrapped in bubble wrap. Danny was always available to answer questions. I’ll be buying from Danny again for the next purchase…saw a couple of Speedmasters on his site I liked….

Mohammed Islam
4 months ago

Can't recommend Danny's vintage watches enough!!! My first Omega ever and im in love have been wearing every day since I purchased it. Danny's shop is a must visit if you are in NYC looking for a watch!!!