The Ref. 5700/Ref. 5701 is a rare Rolex model because the same reference number is assigned to two different models depending on whether the dial is printed as "Air King Date" or "Explorer Date."
These models are rare in themselves, regardless of whether they are Air King Date or Explorer Date, and compared to the relatively common Air King Date, the Explorer Date is significantly scarcer.
To start the new year, we're introducing such a Ref. 5701 Explorer Date. Given the immense popularity of the standard Explorer, this piece is a sideline Explorer produced exclusively for the North American market as a derivative of the Air King, and it boasts a condition and details that are arguably as good as it gets.
What's most striking is the almost perfect condition of the dial. The fresh, mesmerizing mirror dial is not only exceptional for an Explorer Date mirror dial, which is rarely seen, but also ranks among the top-class mirror dials found in vintage Rolex watches in general.
With its luminous material still intact, it's a very satisfying dial.
Since the Ref. 5701 is a two-tone model, the dial printing, hands, and indices are also gold. This creates a beautiful contrast with the black mirror dial. The Ref. 5701 was available with three dial colors: champagne, silver, and black. However, the black dial was unpopular at the time of its release, making it scarce, and those that remain in good condition are truly rare.
Beyond the superb condition of the mirror dial, there are many other highly satisfying details.
The wedge-shaped indices and alpha hands are a welcome feature of vintage Rolex, not just for this reference. As with other mirror dials handled by AFTER, this Ref. 5701 Explorer Date is no exception.
The single "SWISS" at the 6 o'clock position on the dial is a specification seen only from the late 1950s to the early 1960s. After that, the use of tritium for luminescence required the addition of a "T" alongside "SWISS."
Specifically for Ref. 5700/Ref. 5701, the single "SWISS" specification is quite common and not necessarily rare, but the fact that it possesses such vintage Rolex-like details is precisely what makes Ref. 5700/Ref. 5701 appealing.
Furthermore, the bracelet is a riveted bracelet with straight end links. At the time, Rolex used bracelets manufactured by various suppliers, and one of them was C+I.
C+I is an American manufacturer known for being the only American-made Rolex bracelet to feature the manufacturer's name engraved. The sense of satisfaction derived from having the manufacturer's name engraved in addition to the "U.S.A." engraving is something collectors can surely empathize with.
Many classic specifications are housed within the 34mm size that I genuinely love. The bezel is also a finer-fluted type, characteristic of the era. Considering the fact that this is another variation of the Explorer, it presents a refined dress watch appearance while also revealing its potential to be worn as a sports model.
This Ref. 5701 Explorer Date, above all else, is a piece that cannot be discussed without first mentioning its overwhelming mirror dial. But beyond that, the presence of so many other attractive features that embody the charm of vintage Rolex is what makes it particularly delightful to own and wear.
Among the already niche Ref. 5700/Ref. 5701, the Explorer Date is even scarcer. This particular example boasts an exceptional mirror dial along with a comprehensive array of vintage Rolex-esque features. It is no exaggeration to say that this is a top-tier piece among Ref. 5700/Ref. 5701 models.
We will be open from January 4th. Please visit us and witness its breathtaking presence for yourself.
