Introduction
Inspired by the first-ever successful summit of Mount Everest by Sir Edmund Hillary and his Sherpa Tenzing Norgay, who wore a Rolex Oyster Perpetual, the Rolex Explorer has long been Rolex's ultimate adventure watch. Constructed entirely from Rolex's 904L steel, the Explorer's robust design ensures that it can always battle the elements. Featuring some of Rolex's most capable movements and a rich heritage to boot, the Explorer is another display of their timeless design as this icon of watchmaking has remained virtually untouched in its aesthetic since its inception. Identifiable by its signature 3-6-9 glossy black dial, a flat stainless steel bezel, and entirely satin-brushed stainless steel case and bracelet, the Rolex Explorer has become renowned for its understated class, sporty elegance, and capable construction.
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Grade
V 8.5
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Watch Only
Est. value range
$6,000 – $10,000
The Details
Brand
Rolex
Dimensions
36mm
Model
Explorer
Movement
Automatic cal. 1570
Reference
1016
Bracelet
Leather strap
Year
1972
Condition
Exellent
Material
Stainless steel
Included
Watch only
Dial Color
Black
THE DIAL
Featuring a sleek black dial with large indices and Arabic numerals populating 3, 6, and 9 o'clock and that all feature a bright creamy yellow patina throughout, the Explorer ref. 1016's popularity amongst collectors has aided in making the Explorer's dial design a true icon within Rolex's offering.
THE CONSTRUCTION
Offered in a 36mm stainless steel case that features a brushed finish throughout with the exception of its polished bezel, the Explorer ref. 1016 was designed to withstand the rough wear and tear that its name suggests with was created to tackle.
TIMING MACHINE READOUT
This reading was taken (crown down) with a ONEOF Accuracy Boutique Edition timing machine at time of cataloging. It is provided as a courtesy only, and shall not be construed as a warranty or guarantee of any kind. Please refer to our terms and conditions of sale for more information.
Condition
Watch is in excellent overall condition. Case shows some wear, but retains symmetric and appropriately thick lugs (given the inherent case design). Bezel has sharp edge with light wear. Original "Frog Foot" matte dial in near-mint condition with no visible wear and lightly aged luminous with matching hands. Watch comes on a generic leather strap and steel buckle.
Our Perspective
When I first started my collecting journey, the Explorer 1016 was the watch I coveted most. A functional yet straightforward timepiece, it is the epitome of what a rugged tool-watch should be, and this example is a beautiful expression of the Explorer's utilitarian design language.
Eric Ku
Co-founder
