A Rolex from the Age of Exploration This storied example of the innovative Rolex Explorer timepiece is a special take on the classic design with a unique military provenance. Inspired by the Oyster Perpetual chronometers worn by Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay during their historic first ascent of Mount Everest in 1953, the Explorer was born from the deep involvement of Rolex with pioneering exploration. One of the brand's first Professional watches, the Explorer launched a family of watches designed to accompany those who push boundaries, evolving from the brands deep involvement with pioneering polar and mountaineering expeditions since the 1930's. A Professional Watch Pioneer Launched in 1953, and one of Rolexs first tool watches, the Explorer is a robust, reliable and accurate timepiece, legible under all circumstances and capable of withstanding high humidity, intense heat and freezing temperatures. This 1968 Oystersteel edition of the 36mm Explorer comes with official pap