top of page
Search

Expanding Soobaak Vintage's Curation: The Timeless Rolex Explorer 1

  • Writer: JungYeol Kim
    JungYeol Kim
  • Feb 18
  • 2 min read


At Soobaak Vintage, there are a few key items that have truly broadened the horizons of our curation, and one that can never be overlooked is the Rolex Explorer 1.


It was the vintage Cartier Tank that first showed us that Soobaak could sell pieces priced in the 1 million KRW range, and it was the Explorer 1 (Ref. 114270) that revealed Soobaak’s potential to offer pieces worth up to 10 million KRW.


Whether expensive or affordable, we at Soobaak have a special fondness for simple, understated pieces. Of course, there are times when we can’t resist the allure of extravagant, flashy items—like a Piaget studded with diamonds, for example!


Looking at the list of celebrities who have worn the Explorer 1 with affection, our respect for this watch only grows: from Takuya Kimura and Matt Damon to Brad Pitt. When you think of these icons, it’s hard not to notice a common thread tying them together.


Rolex Explorer 1: Ref. 14270 / 114270 / 214270

They share many similarities, but the 114270 stands out for its slightly lower dial face density compared to the other references (see the 7th photo). Personally, I love that subtle empty feeling it gives.


I’m just speculating, but I highly doubt there’s any shop in South Korea that’s sold more Explorer 1s than Soobaak Vintage. In fact, this full set is only the second one we’ve had in 3 years. If you've been eyeing the Explorer 1, this is definitely a recommendation. Please enjoy it, and thank you as always for your support.


Available Now:

🍉 2004 Rolex Explorer 1 Ref. 114270 (36mm) - Full Set

🍉 Certified by Viber

🍉 9,900,000 KRW (Cash only)

🍉 Late 1960s Rolex Explorer 1 Ref. 5500 (34mm)🍉 9,000,000 KRW (Cash only)


 
 
 

Steve McQueen’s Submariner: The Ultimate Vintage Rolex

  • Writer: JungYeol Kim
    JungYeol Kim
  • Oct 15, 2024
  • 2 min read



Hello! Welcome to Soobaak Vintage, the vintage shop in Korea known for selling the most Rolex watches. Our main focus has been on vintage Explorer 1 models from around the early 2000s, with a few Submariner 14060s in the mix.




  1. I’ve always preferred getting that one perfect piece rather than collecting many, especially when working with a limited budget. And if you're like me, the vintage Rolex Submariner 5513 might just be the perfect choice.



Roger Moore’s Submariner, Sean Connery’s Submariner, Paul Newman’s Submariner, and above all… the king of cool, Steve McQueen’s Submariner!


If you Google Steve McQueen with the 5513, you’ll easily find him wearing it. The photo of him in a simple navy t-shirt, sipping coffee during the filming of Papillon is so effortlessly cool that I believe every vintage Rolex shop should frame it.


  1. Every vintage watch has its own unique charm. While enjoying a vintage piece often involves some level of maintenance, I usually recommend more reliable ones for beginners. The 5513 is definitely one of the best vintage Rolex watches to wear daily, making it into my top 3 vintage Rolex picks.


  1. It’s hard to find another 5513 in this condition and at this price. You could always pay more, of course. One unique feature of this piece is its ‘blank warranty card’. Back in the day, Rolex watches weren’t just sold at luxury boutiques. Our fathers used to buy them at local watch shops, and the blank warranty card was hand-filled by the shop owners.


  1. Now, let’s get into the details of this specific watch: a 1972 Rolex Submariner ref. 5513.


The 5513 was produced from 1962 to 1989, but I have a particular preference for the Mk2 model from the late 60s to mid-70s. It features a matte dial and luminous markers made from tritium, which was the standard at the time.


What’s special about tritium? Over time, the luminous material turns a beautiful yellow patina. And the aluminum bezel, which fades with age, only adds to the watch's charm —and value.


From its domed acrylic crystal to the thin lugs and 40mm case, this watch carries a distinct vintage charm that sets it apart from modern models.


The dial, hands, and luminous markers are all original, with no replacements. It’s likely only been polished once or twice, and it had a full overhaul at a trusted service center last year.


🍉 1972 Rolex Submariner 5513

🍉 With original blank warranty card

🍉 22 million KRW (FYI, the previous owner bought it for 26 million KRW at the most famous vintage Rolex shop in Korea) – cash only.


For those who want to both start and finish their vintage Rolex journey with a single piece, I highly recommend this one. Enjoy it, and thank you as always!



 
 
 
bottom of page