Rolex Space-Dweller Reference 1016 w/ Tropical Dial

The Rolex Explorer reference 1016 was introduced in 1960 and marked the first Explorer with “Superlative Chronometer Officially Certified" printed on the dial. It is one of the most iconic timepieces and for great reason. The 1016 is one of the purest expressions of watch design, and it is for this reason that I am probably asked for vintage Explorer reference 1016s more than any other watch.

This is an extremely cool watch with the rare Space-Dweller dial. Rolex filed a trademark for the Space-Dweller name in 1968, which indicates the name's first use was in 1967. Rolex applied for the trademark in Switzerland in 1966. The Space-Dweller is in every way a Rolex Explorer reference 1016 but features the silver Space-Dweller text on the gilt dial instead of Explorer. One of the myths surrounding the Space-Dweller was that it was released in the Japanese market to commemorate the arrival of American astronauts in the 1960s. However, it was later discovered that in 2008, Sotheby's auctioned off four of these dials, adding to the accepted theory that these dials were loose and added into 1016s (generally in serials from the 1963 to 1968 range).

This example was previously featured in the Reference Points video of the Explorer I. The dial is very attractive and turning tropical. It features the original lume on the dial and hands. This watch was purchased by a collector who learned the dial was sold separately at Sotheby’s. It features a 1.73M serial dating to circa 1967. It is paired on a Rolex 7206 rivet bracelet with 58 end links. The case is 36mm in diameter (43mm lug-to-lug). The case has been polished, but is attractive. It features a True Dome D22 crystal.

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. We do not know the service history of the watch but it is running well. It recently passed a water resistance test of 1 bar.

PRICE: $125,000 (Item SBUXYT3390)