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Description

Rolex Oyster Perpetual Explorer 1 Watch. Ref: 1016. c.1960 Accompanied by History of Revealing Rolex Correspondence & Service Papers
Case: 36mm, stainless steel, #516611
Dial: matt black with tritium markers and numbers, Luminova Mercedes hands
Movement: Rolex caliber 1560, 26 jewel movement. Note: Updated rotor.
Band: Rolex USA JB Big Logo Jubilee bracelet.
Signed: dial, case and movement signed by maker

Perhaps more interesting than the watch itself is the trove of 47 pages of correspondences, service receipts and customs forms archived by a demanding Rolex owner - tracing and detailing the fascinating and entertaining, nearly four decade, "de-evolution" of a Rolex Explorer 1 (1016) originally produced circa 1960 to its current state.


Condition Report*: Type: Rolex Oyster Perpetual Explorer 1 Watch. Ref: 1016. c.1960 Accompanied by History of Revealing Rolex Correspondence & Service Papers
Signed: dial, case and movement signed by maker
Model: Explorer I
Dial: matt black with tritium markers and numbers
Hands: Luminova Mercedes hands
Metal: stainless steel
Case Info: #516611
Case Width: 36mm
Crystal: acrylic
Watch Movement: Rolex caliber 1560, 26 jewel movement. Note: Updated rotor.
Band: Rolex USA JB Big Logo Jubilee bracelet.
Circa: 1960
Condition: The watch exhibits an even distribution tiny scratches and dings about the case, lugs and bezel. NOTE: Rolex replaced the center case in 1997 stamping it with the same reference and serial number as the original and documented in the owners correspondence. No marring to the case back teeth. The top of the crown has an abrasion but screws down smoothly and securely. Good lug holes. Perfect, later Rolex replacement tritium dial and perfect later Rolex Luminova hands. Rolex later replacement oval link Jubilee bracelet is quite stretched but is structurally sound. Clasp is scuffed but has a nice "snap." The watch sets, winds and runs and although the service history is exceedingly well documented the watch has not been serviced in recent history, thus the watch is sold as described with no further mechanical warranty. As always, a fresh service is recommended for everyday use.
*Heritage Auctions strongly encourages in-person inspection of items by the bidder. Statements by Heritage regarding the condition of objects are for guidance only and should not be relied upon as statements of fact, and do not constitute a representation, warranty, or assumption of liability by Heritage. All lots offered are sold "AS IS".

Auction Info

Auction Dates
June, 2023
1st Thursday
Bids + Registered Phone Bidders: 24
Lot Tracking Activity: N/A
Page Views: 919

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25% on the first $300,000 (minimum $49), plus 20% of any amount between $300,000 and $3,000,000, plus 15% of any amount over $3,000,000 per lot.

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Sold on Jun 1, 2023 for: $10,000.00
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