Rolex
Rolex Explorer 36 Strap Size — 19mm Lug Width
The Rolex Explorer 36 has a 19mm lug width, so it takes a 19mm watch strap.
Lug width19mm
| Lug width | 19 mm |
|---|---|
| Case size | 36 mm |
| Lug-to-lug | 43 mm |
| Thickness | 11.6 mm |
| Spring bar Ø (typical) | 1.8 mm |
| End type | Fitted ends best |
Which reference do you have?
Similar-looking models can take different straps. Your reference number is on the case back or your papers.
| Model | Case | Strap |
|---|---|---|
| 124270 | 36mm, 2021 on | 19mm |
| Earlier Explorer references | 36–39mm | Check your reference |
Strap styles that fit
- NATO / Zulu19mm fits if the strap's thickness clears the case under the bars.
- PerlonWoven pass-through, 19mm.
- 2-piece leatherStraight ends fit; curved ends for a gapless look.
- Rubber / siliconeDivers & sports fit well.
- Milanese / meshStraight-end 19mm mesh fits.
- Metal braceletNeeds 19mm end-links shaped for this case.
▲ 19mm — an odd size. Earlier Explorer references differ, so check yours.
Fit & sizing notes for the Explorer 36
- Width: buy 19mm straps. Tapered straps listed as 19/17mm or 19/15mm fit too; only the first number has to match. See strap sizes explained.
- Spring bars: 19mm long, about 1.8mm diameter (spring bar sizes).
- Odd size: 19mm straps are harder to find; a 18mm strap fits with a small gap, but never go wider. Odd lug width options.
- Ends: the case curves between the lugs, so curved or fitted-end straps close the gap. Straight-end straps still fit.
- Wrist fit: at 43mm lug-to-lug it should sit within the top of wrists from about 14.3cm up (rule of thumb: lug-to-lug under ~30% of wrist size). That's longer than 5% of the watches in our index. See what size watch suits your wrist.
- Strap thickness: at 11.6mm thick it's mid-thickness, so most straps suit it; padded leather and NATOs both balance well.
Sources & corrections
Correction, 24 October 2026: This page previously listed 20mm. The current Explorer 36 (124270) is 19mm.
Lug width checked against: WatchGuys: Explorer 114270 vs 124270; Bernard Watch: Explorer 36 124270. Last checked 24 October 2026.
Spec wrong for your watch? Send us a correction with your reference number.
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Rolex Explorer 36 — strap questions
What size strap does the Explorer 36 take?
The Rolex Explorer 36 has a 19mm lug width, so you need a 19mm watch strap.
Will any 19mm strap fit the Explorer 36?
Most will. Width is the main thing to match, but also check that the strap's spring-bar holes suit the bars, and that the strap is thin enough to clear the case between the lugs. For a gapless look, pick curved/fitted ends. A metal bracelet needs 19mm end-links made for this model.
What spring bar size does the Explorer 36 use?
19mm long and about 1.8mm in diameter (a typical figure; measure the original bar to be sure).
Is the Explorer 36 good for strap swapping?
Yes. With standard 19mm spring-bar lugs, NATO, leather, rubber and mesh straps can all be fitted with a spring-bar tool.