Rolex Explorer I Mk 1 Frog Foot Reference 1016 Unpolished

Introduced in 1960 an icon was born in the Rolex Explorer reference 1016. The 1016 was produced until circa 1989. This example is extremely nice and features an 2.11M serial dating it to circa 1969. It features the mark I dial with the frog foot coronet. The watch features the original Tropic 22 crystal. The case is unpolished and measures 36mm in diameter (43mm lug-to-lug). The lume is very attractive. It is paired on a Rolex 7206 rivet bracelet with correct 58 end links.

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.

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. The service history is unknown, but it is running very well! It just passed a 5 bar water resistance test.

(Item SBUXYT1599)

SOLD