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.

The watch is in overall excellent condition. The steel case shows signs of previous polishing and has some light surface marks and scratches, as expected of a watch of this vintage. The case back has some light scratches. The matte dial is excellent, with lume in good condition, and the hands are very clean. The watch is fitted with a rivet-link Oyster bracelet in excellent condition, with light surface marks and light play between the links. The bracelet currently fits a 6 3/4” wrist and has 10 links. Comes with box, guarantee certificate with buyers information but blank serial number, original sales receipt, and hangtag. The handwriting on the guarantee and sales receipt are consistent and written by same person.

When I first started my collecting journey, the Explorer 1016 is the watch I coveted most. With a simple yet functional design, it is the epitome of a rugged tool-watch.