1982 Rolex Explorer I (Ref. 1016) Mk. V Dial

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The Rolex Explorer I references bridge the gap between a dress watch and a sports watch. Without the crown guards and rotating bezels commonly found on sports models offered by Rolex, the Explorer I has a cleaner, sleeker profile while incorporating recognizable sports model features into the dial. The highly visible block indices, luminescent numerals at the 3 o'clock, 6 o'clock, and 9 o'clock positions, and Submariner style triangle at the 12 o'clock position allow for readability under any conditions. The Submariner hands featured on the Ref. 1016 add to the unique feel and appearance.

The 1016 Explorer was one of the longest-produced Rolex references, and has become a cornerstone piece for any Rolex collection that can hold its own. Although the Explorer ref. 1016 was produced for a long period of time, it has become one of the more elusive references in recent years due to the simple fact that Rolex didn't manufacture very many during its tenure. Along with the low production numbers, collectors have been holding onto these pieces which further reduces the number of models available for purchase.

Stock #		RLXEXP101682
Brand		Rolex
Style		Explorer I
Model		1016
Serial		82XXXXX
Size		Men's
Material		Stainless Steel
Dial		Matte Black 3-6-9 "Mk. V"
Millimeters		36
Bracelet		Rolex 78360 Oyster Bracelet W/ 580 End Pieces

CASE & BRACELET

The incredibly crisp and well-preserved case displays honest signs of use throughout while retains the original dimensions and factory finishing with no evidence of previous polishing present. The smooth stainless steel bezel also exhibits honest wear and is believed to remain unpolished. The original acrylic crystal shows some light wear, which is expected. The case back retains its original finishing with gentle wear present. The original Rolex 78360 Oyster bracelet with 580 end pieces retains 11 links that show almost no stretch and will fit up to a 6 3/4-inch wrist.

DIAL & HANDS

The original matte black Mk. V "3-6-9 Explorer" dial is in virtually perfect vintage condition, exhibiting no notable age or damage. The tritium lume plots have achieved a charming eggshell patina and display no degradation under UV light inspection. The original tritium hands match the dial almost perfectly with some spots of darker patina present, under UV light inspection the second hand features some superficial cracking and is stable while the hour and minute hands exhibit no degradation.