Why This Watch Matters

It's all about the killer lume patina of this Rolex Explorer ref. 1016.

The Full Story

The Rolex Explorer is one of the last great legacy sport watches, although it has remained largely under-the-radar until the last few years. With more and more collectors stating a preference for watches under 40mm, the Explorer ref. 1016, with its classical 36mm diameter, has gained favor and quickly become one of the most sought-after watches in the vintage Rolex collecting hobby.

Rolex released the ref. 1016 in 1959, and the design has carried over to the contemporary Explorer, with its now iconic black dial with luminous Arabic numerals at three, six, and nine o'clock. The reference started with a glossy dial, but Rolex eventually switched the dial to a matte black, as seen on the example from 1978 we have today.

This watch features a Mark 4 dial, with a clean black matte finish and the distinctively tall coronet logo. What truly sets this example  apart from others is the gorgeous buttery color of the lume that is consistent across the dial and handset. It's one of the most attractive examples of a ref. 1016 we've ever come across, and it will surely looks great on your wrist during any occasion.

The Fine Print

Maker: Rolex 
Model: Explorer 
Reference: 1016
Year: Circa 1978 
Case No: 5518404
Material: Stainless steel 
Dimensions: 36mm 
Crystal: Plexiglass 
Lume: Yes, tritium 
Caliber: Rolex, self-winding, caliber 1570 
Bracelet/Strap: Stainless steel solid link Rolex Oyster No. 78360 bracelet with No. 558 end-links 
Lug Width: 20mm 
Box/Papers: No

What we Love and What You Should Know

This Explorer is in overall great, attractive condition. The case is strong with light scratches and appears to have been lightly polished. There are some scratches behind the lugs. There are some marks between the lugs, but the case numbers are fully visible. The dial is overall clean with light patina. The lume on the hands and dial have aged nicely and are matching in color. The hands have developed patina. The bracelet is in good condition with light stretch; the clasp is marked "H," indicating it is from 1983. The bracelet is a slightly later replacement, but it is of the same style the original would have been. After approximately 1975, the ref. 1016 would likely have received a solid link bracelet, just like the one on this watch. This watch was photographed on a 175mm/6.9 inch wrist.