Rolex Explorer Ref. 1016
photo: fortuna auction
The Explorer 1016 debuted in 1963 and is most famous for the inclusion of its predecessor on the first summiting of Mount Everest in 1953. Usually the Explorer doesn't get much fanfare as compared to other, larger Rolex sport watches. But the Explorer excels in one particular area: its dial. All the way back in the early 1950s, Rolex designed the familiar 3/6/9 dial as seen on the Rolex Explorer 1016 because it was legible for quick and crucial time telling under tough conditions. The large amount of tritium on the dial plus the later addition of the big, bold Mercedes hands also enhanced visibility under low light conditions. The present example dates from the 1970s, with it's matte T<25 dial and folded-link Oyster bracelet. The Explorer gives the wearer the perfect amount of sportiness while still being dressy, with its classic 36 mm Oyster case. The purposeful look of the 1016 was never repeated in the later models, making this the last Explorer that could be considered a true "tool watch."
Please note that the reference and first digit in the case number has been obscured over time by the wear of the bracelet against the case.
photo: fortuna auction
CIRCA: 1970s
REF.: 1016
CASE NUMBER: _345137
CASE MATERIAL: Steel
CASE DIMENSIONS: 36 mm in diameter
DIAL: Black withluminous hour markers and "3", "6", and "9" Arabic numerals
BRACELET MATERIAL: Rolex Oyster steel No. 7836 with 358 end links
BRACELET SIZE: 7 to 7-3/4 inches
MOVEMENT: Automatic
FUNCTIONS: Time only
CALIBER: 1560
