Rolex Oyster Perpetual Explorer 1016 Mk.1 "Frog Dial", 1969

A fine and rare example of the Rolex Explorer, reference 1016, from 1969. This stunning example features an original Stunning Mk.1 "Frog Dial" and is complete with the original Rolex box and the original receipt.

With Rolex's standing as the world's largest, most famous, and (supposedly) most respected luxury watchmaker, it's impossible to fathom anything from the company being considered 'underrated.' But this is most likely your final chance to get your hands on this 'sleeper watch before it's too late.

The history behind the Rolex Explorer

In 1933, Rolex began making watches for explorers with a highly visible dial and unique lubricants that permitted operation between -20° C and +40° C (as an original backer of the Himalayan expedition). After the first Everest summit was reached in 1953.

At the time of release, the Explorer fell victim to the brand's success; they were released during Rolex’s first great golden age, an era which also brought us a pair of true legends: the GMT-Master and the Submariner, beloved of Scuba divers and of the best friend Rolex ever had, James Bond (ironically, the creator of the British super spy, author Ian Fleming, was a lifelong fan of the Rolex Explorer Ref. 1016!).

Finally, this beautiful watch is getting the attention and appreciation it deserves. With prices shooting up, with no sign of stopping, now is a great time to get your hands on one of Rolex's all-time greats!

Technical & Condition: 

• Case size (exc. crown): 36mm
• Case material: Stainless steel
• Movement: Automatic
• Strap/bracelet: 
• Box and papers: Original Rolex box and various papers

Shipping:

For orders placed before 2pm orders will be shipped the same day.

Your watch will be carefully packaged and shipped fully insured with leading global courier companies.

Delivery Prices:

Delivery within the UK is Free. Delivery within Europe is £30. Delivery for the Rest of the World is £50.

Returns:

Don't like it or change your mind? Return it for a full refund with our 14 day, no hassle returns on all sales. See the full conditions here.

The Watches

Are all watches authenticated?

All our watches pass through a double authentication process to insure their authenticity. We also provide detailed photos of the watch from all angles to allow you to undertake your own anlysis. Finally as with everything, if you have any questions please do not hesitate to reach out to our friendly team

What if something goes wrong with the watch

Whilst all our watches are fully serviced before sale, if something does go wrong, we'll repair it for free as part of our 1 year warranty

Do watches come with original box and papers?

It depends on the individual watch. You can see details under "The Basics" heading on this page. For the majority of vintage watches their original box and papers have been lost to time. Whilst they are nice to have, it’s important to note that “box and papers” DO NOT authenticate a watch despite what many in our trade say. It’s also important to realise alot of sellers (including some of the most well known in the UK) put together full sets of box, papers, hang tags etc by buying blank paperwork and boxes in the secondary market. This is a very regrettable, but unfortunately common occurrence in the trade but something we will never do!

How do I know it will fit?

For metal bracelets we provide the size it will currently fit in the description section of this page. If this measurement is too large or too small we are able to assist in either adding or removing links. We also offer this service, post service on a at-cost basis (i.e. we don't add a margin).

Can you change the strap?

Absolutely! If you don't like the current strap, let us know and we'll change it for free! We maintain a broad selection of styles and can also source straps to your specification free of charge.

Can you source something similar?

Absolutely! If its not quite what you’re looking for just get in touch and we can source one with our Free, No Obligation sourcing service. You can contact us on phone, live chat or simply submit the details of what you’re looking for on our “Find a Watch” page.

Payment

What payment options do you offer?

We accept payment by all leading credit and debit cards, ApplePay as well as bank transfer.

Do you offer financing?

Currently we don't offer financing but it’s something we're exploring.

Shipping & Returns

Can you ship an order to arrive on a certain day?

We can certainly try! We can request with our shipment partners for delivery on a certain day but ultimately the exact delivery date is subject to a number of factors outside our control.

How do I return a watch?

Simply let us know you want to send the watch back within the 14 return period and return it to us via Royal Mail Special Delivery. We’ll process your refund the same day we receive the watch back.

Terms & Conditions

Terms & Conditions

You can find our full terms and conditions here.