OVERVIEW

Versatility is often used as a euphemism for something that can do or be many things, but not necessarily well. Sometimes the only characteristic that makes a thing exceptional is its versatility. While the Rolex Explorer 1016 is certainly exceptional, its versatility is not the only reason.

This watch is like your favorite home-cooked meal, no matter how many times you experience it you’ll never get tired of it and no matter how many other things you try you’ll always come back to it. Because of its versatility you’ll find yourself wearing it all the time, in every possible occasion. You’ll wear it with everyday work clothes, with a suit or tuxedo, on a hike, on a beach (it’s been water tested), traveling the world, or simply playing with your kids at home on weekends.

The 1016 is the perfect watch to own if you only want to own one watch, or if you have a vast collection it’ll be what you put on when you don’t want to decide what to wear. For a watch as well-known as any out there, it’ll still be fawned over by your fellow watch collecting buddies. Especially this example. This example is as attractive as it gets with its perfect dial, vibrant patina, and sharp case.

The most exceptional thing about the 1016 though is not that you can wear this watch in all these instances, but that it’s still one of the best watches you can wear for any of them. Its size, legibility, attractiveness, durability, reliability, and legendary design is what makes the Rolex Explorer 1016 the most desirable vintage watch ever.

CONDITION NOTES

CASE: Excellent case with sharp edges and thick, even lugs. Caseback, bezel, and engraving between the lugs are also in sharp and excellent shape.

DIAL & HANDS: Unmolested and perfect matte dial with a pumpkin patina that’s as good as it gets. Original hands have aged to a slightly lighter shade of pumpkin with the normal oxidization on the nickel found on hands with lume that has aged to a deep yellow shade.

MOVEMENT: Running accurately with solid amplitude.