With its simple three-hand layout and comfortably wearable proportions, the Rolex Explorer stands apart from the Crown’s other sport watches. More than most, it walks the fine line between a true tool watch and an understated dress watch. At the same time, it was designed with clarity and durability in mind, built to remain highly legible even in harsh conditions and exposed environments. The Explorer was introduced in 1953, the same year as the Submariner and the Turn-O-Graph. Calling it a landmark year for Rolex—and for the watch industry as a whole—would hardly do it justice. These releases helped define the brand Rolex would become, shaped the modern sports watch segment, and laid the foundation for the collecting hierarchy that Rolex still dominates today.

Presented here is a beautiful reference 1016, one of the final Explorer generations to feature tritium lume, matte dial variants, and a plexiglass crystal. This particular example shows a strong case and features a Mk5 dial, preserved in excellent condition. The lume has aged gracefully to an attractive creamy tone. The watch is fitted with a reference 78360 Oyster bracelet, with end links marked 580 and a clasp stamped I8.

Additionally, the watch is accompanied by its original inner and outer boxes, two booklets, and the punched warranty paper indicating a sale in 1986.

The movement has been fully serviced by our watchmaker and is running smoothly.Interested? Contact us to arrange a private viewing or request additional information — we’re happy to assist.

Specifications:

Rolex Reference 1016 Explorer
36mm steel case, plexi glass
Serial 8624xxx dating to 1985
Mk5 matte dial with cream coloured lume
Oyster bracelet reference 78360 with 580 end links
Original Rolex inner and outer boxes, booklets and punched warrantee paper stating a sale in 1986
Fully serviced by our watchmaker
One-year mechanical warranty
Free worldwide Fedex Priority shipping

Rolex Explorer 1016 MK5 Dial Box and Paper Set

Rolex Explorer 1016 MK5 Dial Box and Paper Set

Before/after