View a video of this lot here: https://youtu.be/YXYZ6b_QPb4
CIRCA: 1970s
REF.: 1016
CASE NUMBER: _345137
CASE MATERIAL: Steel
CASE DIMENSIONS: 36 mm in diameter
DIAL: Black withluminous hour markers and "3", "6", and "9" Arabic numerals
BRACELET MATERIAL: Rolex Oyster steel No. 7836 with 358 end links
BRACELET SIZE: 7 to 7-3/4 inches
MOVEMENT: Automatic
FUNCTIONS: Time only
CALIBER: 1560
The Explorer 1016 debuted in 1963 and is most famous for the inclusion of its predecessor on the first summiting of Mount Everest in 1953. Usually the Explorer doesn't get much fanfare as compared to other, larger Rolex sport watches. But the Explorer excels in one particular area: its dial. All the way back in the early 1950s, Rolex designed the familiar 3/6/9 dial as seen on the Rolex Explorer 1016 because it was legible for quick and crucial time telling under tough conditions. The large amount of tritium on the dial plus the later addition of the big, bold Mercedes hands also enhanced visibility under low light conditions. The present example dates from the 1970s, with it's matte T<25 dial and folded-link Oyster bracelet. The Explorer gives the wearer the perfect amount of sportiness while still being dressy, with its classic 36 mm Oyster case. The purposeful look of the 1016 was never repeated in the later models, making this the last Explorer that could be considered a true "tool watch."
Please note that the reference and first digit in the case number has been obscured over time by the wear of the bracelet against the case.
PROPERTY OF A GENTLEMAN
Condition
Dial in excellent condition. Case in good condition, showing signs of polishing. First digit of serial number is obscured from wear. Overall in very good condition.
Any reference to condition in a condition report will not include a full description of condition, and for example, may not specify all faults, alteration, adaptation, mechanical replacements or imperfections to the movement, case, or dial. Colors and shades may look different online or in printed materials than they look on physical inspection, and images may not clearly show the condition of a lot. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot in person and make their own evaluation of the lot. They must understand that any statement made by Fortuna Auction LLC ("Fortuna") is merely a subjective, qualified statement and does not constitute a representation, warranty, or assumption of liability by Fortuna. All dimensions in catalog descriptions are approximate. No warranties are made that watches in water-resistant cases are currently water-resistant. Fortuna does not guarantee the authenticity of any individual component parts, such as wheels, hands, crowns, crystals, screws, bracelets or leather bands, since subsequent repairs and restoration work may have resulted in the replacement of original parts.
Pre-owned watches, unless still in original packaging or never worn, will likely have some degree of wear and scratches. This should be expected for many of the watches offered in auction. Even if a watch is running and keeping time, bidders and buyers should expect that all movements will require maintenance. Fortuna recommends that all successful buyers promptly take their watches to a professional watchmaker for evaluation.
Prospective buyers should also refer to any notices as well as the Conditions of Sale in Fortuna's print catalogs and made available on its website, digital bidding platform, and other third-party digital bidding platforms. Please note it is the purchaser's responsibility to comply with any applicable import and export matters, including but not limited to customs regulations, duties, and lots incorporating materials from endangered species. NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DESCRIPTIONS OR DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" WITHOUT ANY WARRANTY OR REPRESENTATION, EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED BY FORTUNA, THAT ANY OF THE LOTS FOR SALE ARE MERCHANTABLE OR SUITED FOR ANY PURPOSE.