234 Rolex Refined and Sporty, Explorer, Automatic Wristwatch in Steel, With Black Gilt Dial, Reference 1016

Estimate: € 15.000 –⁠ 30.000

The celebrated Explorer reference 1016 was introduced to the market in 1959, the first series featuring the non-hacking calibre 1560. One of Rolex’s most popular sports watches, the Explorer is easily recognizable by its black dial with the luminous triangle at 12, luminous Arabic numerals for the other three quarters and luminous baton numerals for the remaining hours. This example of Explorer reference 1016 features the same 36 mm sized Oyster case like the first examples that climbed the mountain and reached the top of Everest on May 29, 1953. It is offered in a very nice state of preservation, along with an Oyster riveted bracelet in nice conditions as well. Its black gilt dial has a white iconic trio of Arabic numerals at 3, 6, and 9 o’clock. The connoisseur will immediately notice the incredible well preserved nature of the dial. Not only the luminous material presents no losses and has developed a subtle, even and charismatic ivory hue, but most notably the gloss finish is incredibly well preserved. Completed by luminous steel Mercedes hands, this watch is an unmissable piece of history reminiscent of human feats.