Rolex Explorer I Gilt Dial Reference 1016

Introduced in 1960 an icon was born in the Rolex Explorer reference 1016. The ref. 1016 marked the first Explorer with “Superlative Chronometer Officially Certified" printed on the dial. It is one of the most desired timepieces and for great reason. The 1016 is one of the purest expressions of watch design and for this reason that I am probably asked for vintage Explorer reference 1016s more than any other watch. The case is 36mm in diameter (43mm lug-to-lug). The case is lightly polished but very strong. The bezel is unpolished.

The gilt dial and hands have an attractive and warm patina. This example features a 1.3M serial dating to circa 1966. For context, gilt dials remained until around 1.5M-1.6M serials. It is paired on a Rolex 7206 rivet bracelet with 58 end links.

To learn more about the history and evolution of the Rolex Explorer I, you can see my video and corresponding article Reference Points: A Comprehensive Collector's Guide To The Rolex Explorer I.

The watch does not come with box and papers. It features a True Dome D22 crystal. The watch was recently serviced by Dr. Petronzi.

SOLD (Item SBUXYT0908)