Baselworld 2010: Pre-Basel Rolex Final Predictions

Putting our foot in our mouth again. The Rolex Explorer I and II are slow movers in the Rolex line-up. A lot of people who like the Rolex Explorer I are turned off by its 36mm size. These days, where Patek Philipe dress watches are now at 36mm~38mm in size, a 36mm sports model is really a bit too small. Putting the Explorer I into a 40mm Rolex Milgauss case, and giving it a brushed finished would be what I think is needed to give this old classic current day appeal. Giving it the same blue lume as the Milgauss would help too.

Rolex Explorer I

The Rolex Explorer II is also due for an update. The most likely update of this watch is to simply give it a maxi-dial, a supercase and a new glidelock clasp (for easy adjustment when worn over winter clothing) is the most likely way this watch could be updated. I do not see the point of not updating this watch. It used to share parts in commong with the GMT Master and the Submariner. Now, it will be all on its own. Updating this would simply mean having a more common producton line.

Rolex Explorer II

To give it more distinction from the Rolex GMT Master II, Rolex could put the watch in a larger 43mm (but slimmer) Sea-Dweller DEEPSEA sized case.

We were wrong last year, but we are betting that the Explorer series gets upgraded in 2010. If the Explorers get upgraded, I think me may see a new clasp on the Yachtmaster too.

Pepsi or Coke? One thing a lot of people are waiting for is a Pepsi (Blue and Red bezeled) or Coke (black and red bezeled) GMT Master IIC. The only reason we have not seen this is because while Rolex can produce it new CERACHROME bezel in different colors (so far in balck and blue) there seems to be a problem in producing a bezel in two different colors. If they solve this manufacturing problem, them we should see a Pepsi and Coke GMT Master IIC at the very next Basel fair. Will that be in 2010? Well, we will find out in a month.

March 17, 2010 update: Meet the new Explorer I
March 18, 2010 update: New Explorer II?