Rolex Explorer 1 - 1016 "Tropical Gilt" Dial w/Box - Very Rare

Year/era: 1965

Reference: 1016

Serial: 115XXXX

Dimensions: 36mm wide, 20mm lug width.

Movement: Automatic Rolex caliber 1560.

The Rolex Explorer was first introduced in 1953 and quickly became associated with adventure, built around durability, reliability, and legibility in extreme conditions. Its simple balanced dial, luminous markers, and robust Oyster case made it one of Rolex’s purest tool watch designs. It leverages Rolex's patented Oyster case technology, which provides exceptional water resistance and dust protection. The Explorer has been worn on many notable expeditions and has become a symbol of Rolex's commitment to quality, earning it a top spot in the list of iconic models. The ref. 1016, produced '60 - '89, was the longest-running Explorer reference and remains highly coveted by collectors today.

In the realm of vintage Rolex collecting, "tropical" dials are amongst the most beautiful and sought after as they offer an incredible amount of joy to wear and behold. Today, it is very difficult to find well-preserved examples, let alone something collector grade that's available for sale. This particular 115X serial example, circa 1965, features a spectacular "tropical gilt" dial. Its original black has faded to a range of "chocolate" browns that go from "dark chocolate" to "milk chocolate" in direct light. It displays minimal wear and an incredible patina with a golden hue. The case remains strong with normal signs of use and the bracelet is a very desirable "stretch rivet" variant, retaining 12 links. This piece has just returned from True Patina and includes a service invoice for a new True Dome crystal and pressure test for added protection. For any collector looking for a highly special 1016, we're thrilled to offer you your next timepiece.

Dial: There is a small service mark below the center post and a touch of lume loss at 10 and 1 o-clock. Finding a gilt dial without a small imperfection is extremely difficult. This example presents beautifully in person with a spectacular and evenly dispersed "tropical/chocolate" color. All of the lume has aged cleanly and evenly to a stunning golden hue. This cannot be said for many examples which either have lume rot, more extensive chipping and/or uneven aging in the tropical character. If you've been looking for a very strong example this is it! For any serious inquires we can provide more photos/ video content in direct light.

Bezel: Normal signs of use consistent with age. There is a ding on the lower half that could be removed at the request of the next custodian.

Hands: Are correct, matching and all of their lume is stable.

Case: Normal signs of use consistent with age. There is no oxidation present and both ref. and serial are still highly visible. Correct signed crown. The engraving of "Arthur H Davis" is light and could easily be removed at the next owner's request. We would recommend preserving its history. Given where the watch was found we believe this could be the same person as the U.S. Ambassador to the Republic of Panama, nominated by Ronald Reagan in '86.

Bracelet: Is a very desirable and correct "stretch rivet" variant dated '66. It displays virtually no stretch, retains 12 links and shows a strong coronet on the clasp. It will fit an approximate 7.25 inch wrist.

Crystal: Is a new True Dome for added piece of mind and clarity to enjoy the dial. The original crystal is still in nice shape and included.

Accessories: Box and service papers from True Patina dated October 2025.

The movement is running well on our timegrapher and comes with our 6-month mechanical warranty.

Every watch undergoes a meticulous inspection to verify its authenticity and condition. We stand behind every timepiece we sell with a 100% authenticity guarantee.

We ship fully insured via FedEx priority overnight at no additional cost. 

Hassle free returns: Our inspection period is 5 days within the  U.S. We accept returns without question if you aren't completely satisfied. There is no restocking fee unless a credit card is used in which case 3.5% is deducted from the refund. International sales are final.

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