Important Collector's, Watches, Wrist...
Geneva, Hotel Des Bergues, Oct 15, 2000
LOT 112
Rolex Oyster Perpetual "Explorer", Superlative Chronometer Officially Certified, Ref. 1016, 1980's.Fine tonneau-shaped, water-resistant, center-seconds, self-winding, stainless steel gentleman's wristwatch. Accompanied by a stainless steel Oyster bracelet.
CHF 4,500 - 5,500
USD 2,500 - 5,500
Sold: CHF 6,670
C. three-body, polished and brushed, screwed-down case back and crown. D. black with tritium-coated Arabic numerals and indexes. "Skeleton" tritium-coated hands. M. Cal. 1570, rhodium-plated, 26 jewels, lever escapement, monometallic balance adjusted to temperatures and 5 positions, shock-absorber, self-compensating Breguet balance-spring.Dial, case, and movement signed.Diam. 35 mm.
| Grading System | |
|---|---|
Grade: AA |
Very good |
Case: 3 |
Good |
Movement: 3 - 6* |
|
Dial: 3 - 01 |
Notes
Collectors? interest in watches with an Explorer dial has been permanently increasing since about 1950. The Explorer was described as "the reinforced Rolex". It has been used in the Arctic, the Himalayas and the Tropics. Designed to be accurate under the toughest outdoor conditions. The next generation of this model was called "Explorer II" (called "Steve McQueen" by collectors) and was launched in the 1970's. Created for the speleologists, the additional red hand helps the user to distinguish ncturnal from diurnal hours.Similar watches are published in "Rolex, Collecting Wristwatches", by OSVALDO PATRIZZI, Guido Mondani Editore, Genova, 1998, pp. 256, 258, and 275.