ROLEX EXPLORER

Maker: Rolex
Model: Explorer
Reference: 1016
Year: 1989
Serial: L-Serial
Material: Stainless Steel
Dial: Black Dial 3 6 9, Service Hands & Tritium Dial
Dimensions: 36mm
Crystal: Plexiglass
Clasp: Ref. 78360 Oyster Bracelet, Clasp Stamped O1 (Year 1990), End Links 580
Box & Papers: Full Set, Sold Bucherer Lugano 1990

One notable admirer of the Ref. 1016 was Sir Edmund Hillary, the legendary mountaineer who, along with Tenzing Norgay, was the first to reach the summit of Mount Everest. Hillary's association with Rolex began with his historic ascent, and while he famously wore a Rolex during his Everest expedition, his preference for the Explorer in his later years spoke volumes about its durability and reliability in challenging conditions.

The Explorer also graced the wrist of Ian Fleming, the creator of James Bond. Fleming was known for his precise taste in luxury items that perfectly matched his suave and sophisticated literary hero. The Explorer's understated yet powerful design parallels the enigmatic and enduring appeal of 007, a character that continues to influence the style and gadgets of espionage.

In the world of music, the iconic Johnny Cash was often seen with an Explorer Ref. 1016. Cash, with his deep, resonant voice and rebellious style, chose the Explorer not only for its exceptional functionality but also for its strong, minimalistic aesthetic that matched his all-black attire and the somber themes of his music.

The Business Creative - A day at a creative agency or attending a design workshop

Opt for a smart-casual ensemble that balances professionalism with artistic flair. Combine a tailored navy blazer with a pair of well-fitted, dark selvedge jeans. Underneath, wear a crisp white Oxford shirt, unbuttoned at the collar for a touch of laid-back style. The shoes should be clean, classic leather loafers in brown, complementing the watch's leather strap. The understated elegance of the Rolex Explorer with its sleek black dial and stainless steel case adds a refined touch to the creative professional’s attire, signaling a keen eye for design and attention to detail.

The Outdoor Adventurer - A weekend hike or a casual day exploring the city 

Gear up in high-quality, durable clothing that moves with you. A lightweight, waterproof field jacket, breathable merino wool t-shirt, and rugged, slim-fit cargo pants are ideal. Footwear should be robust—think durable, supportive hiking boots that can handle any terrain. Built for the extremes, the Rolex Explorer’s robust build and clear, legible display shine through, making it the perfect companion for outdoor escapades. Its historical association with mountaineering underscores its suitability for adventure, blending seamlessly with a practical, tough-wearing outdoor outfit.

The Evening Socialite - Evening cocktails or a dinner date

Channel sophistication with a well-cut charcoal grey suit, paired with a light grey dress shirt. Add a touch of personality with a silk tie featuring a subtle pattern. Black Oxford shoes polished to a mirror shine complete the ensemble, reflecting the night’s elegance. In the evening light, the Rolex Explorer transitions gracefully; its simple, uncluttered dial exudes a discreet charm that complements the night’s formality. Its historical depth adds a conversational piece to the outfit, perfect for evenings where impressions count.

This particular Rolex Explorer Ref. 1016, a full set purchased from Bucherer Lugano in 1990, presents a fascinating testament to the enduring craftsmanship of Rolex, paired with signs of its storied past and loving use. The dial, an authentic piece of late '80s tritium, exhibits the distinctive charm of slightly blurred numerals at the 3, 6, and 9 positions, a feature that adds a soft, vintage aesthetic unique to this era of timepieces. The original tritium on the hour hand has begun to lose its luminescence, hinting at the many hours it has faithfully marked.

The case itself tells its own tale of preservation and wear. While the lugs have undergone polishing, they maintain a robust thickness, suggesting that any cosmetic alterations were done with a careful hand, aiming to honor the watch's original contour and strength. This careful preservation extends to the Oyster bracelet, reference 78360 with end links 580, which secures the watch with reliability and style. The clasp, marked with 'O1' for the year 1990, confirms its period authenticity and ties it directly back to its original release era.

This Explorer comes complete with its original box and papers, marked by Bucherer Lugano, confirming its provenance and enhancing its collectible appeal. A recent test of its mechanical integrity showed an admirable performance, with an accuracy of +1 seconds per day and an amplitude of 280, promising continued precision and reliability in its timekeeping capabilities.

The price includes Swiss VAT of 8.1%, which can be directly deducted for export, and the shipping cost comes with full worldwide insurance. Please note that the customer will be responsible for paying any customs duties in their country.

If you desire a complete service, we can provide it at an additional cost, with a warranty of at least one year for precision and accuracy (not for waterproofness).