Rolex Explorer 40 Goes Big with Larger 40mm Case Size

Following on from new launches like the Yacht-Master 42 in titanium Rolex continue to focus on small tweaks to existing designs for the 2023 season. Next up we have a new case size joining the Explorer collection in the form of the Rolex Explorer 40.

While for many watches, a new 40mm diameter would be a reduction in size, for the Explorer it’s actually an increase from the standard 39mm. Although even the initial increase to 39mm was a big step; as a truly vintage design, first developed in the 1930s, the original Explorer was an incredibly svelte 36mm, a size that they returned to in 2021 in an attractive bi-colour version. Now they’ve decided it’s finally time to go even larger.

The new case is made from Oystersteel, with a solid block for the middle case making it extremely robust. On top of that it has a Twinlock crown for double layers of water protection giving it a water resistance rating of 100m.

On paper a change of 1mm doesn’t seem like a lot but it can make a large difference to a watch. The display can afford to be wider and the indexes clearer and more legible, making it easier to read at a glance – useful for a tool watch designed for use on the go. The display itself follows a 3/6/9 style with plenty of Chromalight lume for low light conditions.

Powering the Rolex Explorer 40 is the calibre 3230 with automatic winding and a power reserve of 70-hours. As with most Rolex manufacture movements it has superlative chronometer certification, basically COSC on steroids.

While it might not be as flashy as the newly revamped Daytonas it’s a solid addition to the Explorer range. The new size gives it a slightly bolder appearance with more presence on the wrist. Plus, it will simply look better on larger wrists, the kind of wrists that you imagine real explorers have. It’s priced £6,450, making it deceptively accessible. I say deceptively because like all Rolexes, the first hurdle isn’t the price, it’s the waiting list.