1969 Rolex Oyster Perpetual Ref. 1018 with Box and Papers from Serpico y Laino

For those just starting their journey into vintage Rolex, an Oyster Perpetual is often the perfect first step. Clean designs, chronometer-certified movements, and the versatility to pair effortlessly with an Oyster, Jubilee, or any number of straps—it’s a formula that has remained unchanged for decades.

 

But if there’s one downside to most vintage Oyster Perpetuals, it’s their 34mm case size—a dimension that can feel modest by modern standards. Enter the Rolex Oyster Perpetual Ref. 1018, a rarely seen exception to the rule.

 

With its 36mm case, 20mm lug width, and slim 11.5mm profile, the 1018 shares proportions with the Explorer 1016, offering a larger presence on the wrist while keeping the same effortless wearability. Yet, unlike the Explorer or Datejust, this reference was an outlier—produced in extremely limited quantities in the mid-to-late 1960s, never finding mass appeal. Most collectors simply opted for an Explorer or Datejust instead, making the 1018 an under-the-radar gem for those who know.

The example offered here is a 1969 Rolex Oyster Perpetual Ref. 1018, a true rarity—complete with its original box and papers.

 

Its silver sunburst dial remains in excellent condition, showing only light wear. The creamy lume plots are fully intact, pairing beautifully with the original baton hands, which exhibit just the right amount of age.

 

The 36mm stainless steel case remains thick and sharp, showing normal signs of wear, while the smooth bezel retains its clean, understated profile.

 

The original USA-market Rolex Jubilee bracelet remains in good shape, with expected stretch but plenty of life left.

 

The original acrylic crystal is intact, showing minor surface marks that could be buffed out if desired.

 

Mechanically, it runs great—serviced in 2022 and waterproof tested in 2025, with receipts included in the set.

 

And what a set it is—a full collector’s package with its outer box (featuring the reference and dial color sticker), inner box, hang tag, manual, and original punched guarantee papers. Most notably, this watch was originally sold by Serpico y Laino, the legendary Venezuelan Rolex retailer, adding another layer of provenance.

 

For collectors in the know, the 1018 is a sleeper hit—rare, wearable, and historically overlooked. This is a true under-the-radar Rolex, offering a perfect blend of style, heritage, and collectability in a reference few will ever come across.

 

Macros of dial and case, as well as movement and inner case back pictures are available under request.