THE ESSENTIALS

MAKE: ROLEX
MODEL: 1016
YEAR: 1960
BOX/PAPERS: YES/YES
CASE DIAMETER: 36mm
CASE MATERIAL: STAINLESS STEEL
BRACELET MATERIAL: STAINLESS STEEL
MOVEMENT: AUTOMATIC

Let’s start off with a fun fact; the 1016 Explorer holds the title of the longest model in continual production, and the first watch to have the now common ‘Superlative Chronometer Officially Certified’ text on the dial!! The 1016 was originally launched in 1959 and apart from a few changes, it was made until 1989, a whopping thirty-year production run.

The 1016, like most of the other older explorers, has flown under the radar for some time, only hardcore Rolex collectors have been seeking these wonderful models and now they’re seldom seen in the wild. 

The example we have here is the second of the gilt dial variations, the type 1 chapter dial, with the short, flat early tritium hands. Yes there is MK0, we know it makes no sense. This is the first dial to show the SCOC print, this designated the use of the new 1560 'microstella movement'. The watch retains its original radium dial as confirmed by our Geiger counter. The hands look to have been replaced in the mid sixties, they have the earlier 'glowy tritium' as its known, a service caseback engraving dating 64 would also go towards validating this point. The case is still very full it looks to have been polished a long time ago, the case shows typical signs of use which definitely adds to the charm. 

A correct new old stock T22 acrylic dome has been fitted to the watch as a later service dome was fitted. The movement is running well at -6 secs per day and around 210 amps with the crown down. The original box and chronometer papers have survived intact, they are dated November 1960. 

This early gilt variant is a rare sight these days, its an honour to see one with its original dial as so many have been relumed. We have paired the watch with a period correct USA stamped rivet dated 1/70 and a cool straight lug BOR bracelet from Forstner.