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.
Loupe This Scorecard
Grade
V 9
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Box and Papers, service papers, hang tags
Est. value range
$15,000 – $20,000
The Details
Brand
Rolex
Dimensions
36mm
Model
Explorer
Movement
Automatic cal. 1570
Reference
1016
Bracelet
Stainless steel Jubilee bracelet
Year
1988
Condition
Near-mint
Material
Stainless steel
Included
Watch, box, papers, hang tags, original purchase receipt and 2008-dated service papers and invoice
Dial Color
Black
THE DIAL
The watch features the iconic 3-6-9 dial that has graced the Explorer since its inception in the 1950s. This example features Snow White luminous plots against a matte black surface.
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.
THE CONSTRUCTION
While its hollow end links and center links, acrylic crystal, and fold-over clasp provide a beautifully pure expression of what a vintage Rolex was like to wear back in its heyday, the ref. 1016's 36mm diameter was certainly not the norm during the '60s, with it dwarfing most watches from the time. Offered in near-mint condition and boasting a Jubilee bracelet, this example is something special.
Condition
Watch is in near-mint condition. Lugs are full and edges crisp, and bezel is flat with a sharp edge. Original tritium dial and hands are near-mint with little to no signs of wear. Luminous is matching and lightly toned. Watch comes on its original jubilee bracelet with 20 links total, 3 of which are removable. Bracelet shows light stretch and fits an approx 7" wrist. There are two links that have been removed and are included with the watch. Watch comes with original USA guarantee paperwork (Which indicates it was delivered on a jubilee bracelet), as well as multiple sets of service records. (Two of the services were performed by Rolex)
Our Perspective
A truly remarkable full set Explorer I 1016 that has been fastidiously maintained by its previous owners, this example is about as good as it gets. My personal favorite Rolex of all time, the 1016 epitomizes the ethos of Rolex- form follows function.
Eric Ku
Co-founder
