1989 Rolex Explorer Ref. 1016 L8 Series last batch Full Set unpolished

The Rolex Explorer is the brand’s most understated sports watch, often flying under the radar. However, with its rich history and very wearable look, the Explorer is a Rolex watch that shouldn’t be overlooked and it’s getting much appreciation by the watch community – see these Refs. 1016 for the Explorer I and the Refs. 1655 for the Explorer II. The Explorer’s official story famously takes shape with Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay’s pioneering ascent to Mount Everest in 1953.

The 1016, introduced in 1963, had a long production until it stopped in 1989. Along with the Reference, a new caliber was also introduced: the 1560, which was later replaced by the 1570.

This particular example here is part of the very last batch of 1016s, making it incredibly sough-after collectors. It remains in great original condition, featuring an untouched black matte dial with fat tritium hour 369 hour markers. The tritum remains evenly matching on the hands too. The case preservers factory bezels as it remains unpolished.

It comes suited on the original 20mm Rolex oyster 78360 bracelet with 580 endlinks (service clasp on but original clasp is included).

This example is presented as a collector’s set; guarantee papers showing the watch was sold in Paris in 1990, wallet, booklets, service card showing it was serviced in Spain (country where we bought it to the original owner), translation leaflet, outer box with reference sticker and inner box.

It has been fully serviced by our watchmaker and it is ready for someone to grab it and enjoy a unique example of a reference that’s only gaining in popularity amongst vintage watch collectors.