Rolex Explorer I Reference 1016 on Folded Oyster Bracelet

The Rolex Explorer reference 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 example dates to circa late 1974 with a 3.6M serial. It features a tritium matte dial. The case has been polished. It measures 36mm in diameter (43mm lug-to-lug). It is paired on Rolex folded Oyster 7838 bracelet with 358 end links without date code dating to 1973-1975. The hands have been relumed.

We do not know the service history, but it is running well. It does not come with a box or papers. It recently passed a 5 bar water resistance test. 

To learn more about the history and evolution of the Rolex Explorer I, you can see the video and corresponding article I produced with HODINKEE:

PRICE: $18,900 (Item SBUXYT5036)