Rolex Explorer I Silver Font Gilt Dial Reference 1016 Unpolished

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 a beautiful gilt dial with the very rare silver font. It features a 517,XXX serial dating it to circa 1960. The case appears to be unpolished. It measures 36mm in diameter (43mm lug-to-lug). The lume is very attractive. It is paired on a Jubilee bracelet dated to 1960. For those looking for an amazing gilt-dial 1016, this is an awesome 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. We do not know the service history, but it is running well. It recently passed a water resistance test of 5 bar.

PRICE: $35,000 (Item SBUXYT2549)