The dial is the distinctive face of a Rolex watch, the feature most responsible for its identity and readability. The Explorer model’s characteristic 3, 6 and 9 numerals are filled with a luminescent material emitting a long-lasting blue glow, like the hour markers and hands. Like all Rolex timepieces, the Explorer 40's dial is designed and manufactured in-house, largely by hand to ensure perfection.

The Oyster Perpetual Explorer 40 imparts a fresh elan to the sober, clean lines that have long established it as an icon. The smooth bezel in Oystersteel is robust yet elegant, and in perfect harmony with the Explorer’s iconic heritage.

Rolex uses Oystersteel for its steel watch cases. Specially developed by the brand, Oystersteel belongs to the 904L steel family, alloys most commonly used in high-technology and in the aerospace and chemical industries, where maximum resistance to corrosion is essential. Oystersteel is extremely resistant, offers an exceptional finish once polished and maintains its beauty even in the harshest environments.