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
$12,000 – $18,000
The Details
Brand
Rolex
Dimensions
36mm
Model
Explorer I
Movement
Automatic cal. 1550
Reference
1016
Bracelet
Stainless steel Oyster bracelet
Year
1963
Condition
Excellent
Material
Stainless steel
Included
Watch only
Dial Color
Dark brown (Tropical)
THE DIAL
Featuring a sleek tropical brown dial with large radium luminescent indices and Arabic numerals populating 3, 6, and 9 o'clock, the Explorer ref. 1016's popularity amongst collectors has aided in making the Explorer's dial design a true icon within Rolex's offering. Boasting gilt inscriptions and an underlined SCOC script, this ref. 1016 is a collector's dream.
THE CONSTRUCTION
With its hollow end links and center links, riveted bracelet, and fold-over clasp, this Explorer ref. 1016 is perhaps the purest expression of what a vintage Rolex was like to wear back in its heyday.
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 moderate signs of surface wear, but retains thick and straight lugs Bezel shows some minor marks commensurate with wear along the case. Original gilt chapter ring dial has aged to a tropical dark tone, and remains glossy with minimal wear on the surface. The original gilt hands have oxidation on the surface and discolored luminous. The watch comes with an original Swiss oyster rivet band dated 1963 with 12 links total, fitting a 7 1/2" wrist. There is light stretch.
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 1963 example is a beautiful expression of the Explorer's utilitarian design language with some flourishes such as its tropical underline gilt dial.
Eric Ku
Co-founder
