Explorer I taper "mystery" solved?

[dannyp]

I recall a lot of discussion, hypothesizing and disagreements over the choice to have the new Explorer bracelet taper to 14mm. Well, here's something not previously discussed that may in fact explain the decision entirely:

I checked, and the removable links/interior clasp components of the Explorer and the OP34 are the exact same width. We all know that Rolex is a big fan of interchangeable parts, and common components across watches, which the Explorer seemed to have none of. No commonality (besides maybe crystal) with other 36mm watches. Nothing about the (sole) 34mm offering, though... Well, looks like that's where the overlap is.