Rolex Tropical Gilt Explorer I Ref 1016

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.

The watch features a 1.38M serial and dates to circa 1966. It features a gilt dial that is an extremely attractive tropical color. The case is 36mm in diameter. The case has been polished. It is paired on a period correct Rolex 7206 rivet bracelet with 58 end links dating to 1965.

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

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: $32,000 (ITEM: SBUXYT5289)