THE ESSENTIALS

MAKE: ROLEX
MODEL: 1016
YEAR: 1969
BOX/PAPERS: NO/NO 
CASE DIAMETER: 36MM
CASE MATERIAL: STAINLESS STEEL
BRACELET MATERIAL: STAINLESS STEEL
MOVEMENT: AUTOMATIC

The Rolex 1016 Explorer holds the title of the longest-running model in continuous production and was the first watch to feature the now-common “Superlative Chronometer Officially Certified” text on the dial. Originally launched in 1959, the 1016 remained in production, with only a few changes, until 1989, giving it a remarkable thirty-year run and cementing its place as the longest reference run in Rolex history.

Like many Explorer references, the 1016 flew under the radar for years, sought after primarily by the most dedicated Rolex collectors. In recent times, however, these 36 mm icons have deservedly begun receiving the appreciation they have long earned.

It’s hard not to love the 1016, especially when it presents like this. This 1969 example features a Mk1 matte dial, colloquially known as the “frog foot” due to the splayed points of the coronet. Being a 2.1m serial, it has the later Mk1 dial with flatter, dead tritium lume—these tend to age to a creamier tone compared to the earlier zinc sulfide variants. The dial is in wonderful condition, as are the earlier long hands. The correct domed T22 crystal is still present. The case has been polished in the past but remains very full. 

The correct full-link 7836/380B bracelet with a 1971-stamped clasp is also in superb condition with minimal stretch. It will accommodate a 19 cm wrist. The movement is running perfectly at +2 s/d, with 306° amplitude and a beat error of 0.1 ms.

This is easily one of the best 1016s we have ever come across—an absolute beauty.