Rolex Explorer reference 1016

The ref. 1016, which will remain in production until 1990, is aesthetically similar to the preceding model (reference 6610), differing only by the caliber used: the caliber was initially 1560 but was then replaced by the 1570.

Waterproof up to a depth of 100 meters, the Explorer ref. 1016 was originally fitted with a riveted link Flushfit bracelet with ref. 6636 (expanding) or 7206, later with the folded link Oyster bracelet with reference 7836 and, in the late 70’s, with leather strap or solid link Oyster bracelet (ref. 78360).

To celebrate the visit of the Nasa (National Aeronautics and Space Administration) astronauts in Japan, a special series of Explorer ref. 1016 was made in 1963: the Space-Dweller model.

You can find a complete chapter entirely dedicated to the Rolex Explorer I in the limited edition Book Collecting Rolex Milgauss, Explorer, Turn-O-Graph, Yacht-Master

Image taken from the Book Collecting Rolex Milgauss, Explorer, Turn-O-Graph, Yacht-Master