Rolex Explorer I Reference 1016 Mk 1 “Frog Foot” Dial

Introduced in 1960 an icon was born in the Rolex Explorer reference 1016. The 1016 was produced until circa 1989. 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.

This example features an 2.16M serial dating it to circa 1969. The case is polished and measures 36mm in diameter (43mm lug-to-lug). It features the original Mark 1 frog foot dial. It is paired on a Rolex 7836 Oyster folded link bracelet with 258 end links. The bracelet has a bit of stretch and is original to the 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. It just had a full service at Los Angeles Watchworks. It features a replacement crystal. It is offered at a very attractive price and comes from the son of the original owner.

SOLD (Item SBUXYT1868)