The 1016 replaced the 6610 in 1963 and remained in the catalog until 1989—an extraordinary span that saw almost no fundamental changes to the watch. Gilt gloss dials with chapter ring underline printing (early 1960s) transitioned to matte painted dials in the late 1960s, which then evolved through several 'Mk' variants. Early gilt-dial 1016s in unpolished condition are among the most beautiful Rolexes ever made and command prices that reflect it. Late matte-dial 1016s remain the most accessible way into vintage sports Rolex ownership, and their patina—cream tritium plots against black satin dials—rewards close inspection.
← The Rolex Directory
Reference
1016
Explorer
1963–1989
One reference. Twenty-six years. Nearly no changes.
- Case
- 36mm
- Caliber
- 1560 / 1570
- Years
- 1963–1989
What to watch for
Service dials without the underline, refinished gilt dials (the print is easy to fake, the depth is not), and heavily polished cases.