1960 Rolex Explorer I (Ref. 1016) Gilt "Swiss Only" Chapter Ring Dial

The Rolex Explorer I references bridge the gap between a dress watch and a sports watch. Without the crown guards and rotating bezels commonly found on sports models offered by Rolex, the Explorer I has a cleaner, sleeker profile while incorporating recognizable sports model features into the dial. The highly visible block indices, luminescent numerals at the 3 o'clock, 6 o'clock, and 9 o'clock positions, and Submariner style triangle at the 12 o'clock position allow for readability under any conditions. The Submariner hands featured on the Ref. 1016 add to the unique feel and appearance.

The very first version of the legendary Rolex ref. 1016 Explorer I was introduced in the year 1960, featuring a “Swiss only” gilt chapter dial. This version directly succeeded the also legendary ref. 6610 Explorer I, and in part, retains some of the same details featured from its predecessor. This first series dial didn’t last long, however, and was quickly replaced with the “Exclamation point” dial, and the subsequent iterations that followed.

The 1016 Explorer was one of the longest-produced Rolex references, and has become a cornerstone piece for any Rolex collection that can hold its own. Although the Explorer ref. 1016 was produced for a long period of time, it has become one of the more elusive references in recent years due to the simple fact that Rolex didn't manufacture very many during its tenure. Along with the low production numbers, collectors have been holding onto these pieces which further reduces the number of models available for purchase.

SPECS

Stock # RLXEXP601016-2
Brand Rolex
Style Explorer I
Model 1016
Serial 51XXXX
Size Men's
Material Stainless Steel
Dial Gilt "Chapter Ring" 3-6-9
Millimeters 36
Strap 2pc Handmade Leather Strap

CASE & BRACELET

The thick case retains full and symmetrical lugs that display signs of light previous polishing and honest signs of use. It must be noted that the bottom right lug does exhibit a slight bend, though it is not apparent while the watch is on wrist. The smooth stainless steel bezel shows light signs of honest use in a matching fashion to the case. The case back features gentle tooling marks and light signs of use. The watch comes supplied on a 2pc handmade leather strap.

DIAL & HANDS

The original "Swiss Only" gilt chapter ring dial possesses a beautiful vintage aesthetic and has achieved a matte texture that is consistent throughout. This patina gives the dial a deep grey color instead of the usual glossy black dial. The gilt text and printing around the dial are all fully intact and in excellent condition. The strontium lume in the dial all remains intact under UV light inspection and has achieved a dark grey and green coloration throughout. The original strontium lume hands match the dial nicely, under UV light inspection the minute hand exhibits some minor lume loss that is nominal in nature and remains stable, and the hour and second hand remain fully intact.

ACCESSORIES

None. The watch is keeping time, but the service history is unknown. A movement service can be provided upon request

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