Rolex Explorer I

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SKU AS03930
Article Number 40920130
SKU AS03930
Article Number 40920130

Why We Love it

Why We Love It

Today, the Explorer I --in all of its executions-- enjoys a kind of cult status among watch enthusiasts and collectors, but for many, the story really begins and ends with the Reference 1016.

For one, it enjoyed the longest production run of all the Explorer models (1963 - 1989), making it the execution widely understood to define the model. Additionally, the trim 36mm steel case and gilt or matte dials resonate with the original form-follows-function design; the simplicity is pleasing when contrasted with the more luxurious materials and additional complications of its successors.

For many years, the 36mm size of the 1016 was deemed to be too small for a 'true' sport watch, keeping demand and values relatively low, but in recent years the pendulum has swung to the other side, and increased demand has made finding honest 1016s very hard today, with many suffering from over-restoration or replacement components.

This particular example dates to circa 1983 and features an incredible, unpolished case with an absolutely stunning dial that features rich, creamy yellow patina across its characteristic 'quadrant' Arabic indices and handset. Fitted to a solid link stainless Oyster bracelet, this piece is arguably all you'd ever need in the vintage sports Rolex category!

The Explorer I Story

Few watches have captured the imagination the way the Rolex Explorer has.

 At its core, the Explorer has always been an understated tool watch, it's spartan appearance belying its hearty robustness. It is perhaps this, more than any other feature, that urges ever onward the spirit of adventure and humankind's unwillingness to accept defeat. In this way, the Explorer - in all of its executions - has formed a kind of cult status among watch enthusiasts and collectors.

The Explorer traces its heritage back to the first successful summit of Everest in 1953. While we know now that the watch on Sir Edmund Hillary’s wrist was a Rolex Oyster Precision. The Oyster Precision was the precursor to the Explorer, and it was the Precision that introduced the 3-6-9 Arabic dial that we associate with the Explorer today. It was after the successful summit that Rolex rechristened the model as the Explorer in honor of Hillary and Norgay’s historic accomplishment.

Rolex went on to produce the Explorer continuously for nearly seven decades (and counting, since it’s still in production), and the triumph of the 1953 expedition and spirit of adventure and exploration carries on with each new model.

It is a memento of our ability to conquer the world through hard work, grit and determination - and of course our ability to do so with timeless style and panache.

A:S Guarantee

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Our Pledge

Analog:Shift stands behind the authenticity of our products in perpetuity.

Condition

Since our pieces are vintage or pre-owned, please expect wear & patina from usage and age. Please read each item description and examine all product images.

Warranty

We back each Analog:Shift vintage timepiece with a one-year mechanical warranty from the date of purchase.

International Buyers

Please contact us prior to purchase for additional details on shipping and payment options.

Shipping & Returns

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All of our watches include complementary insured shipping within the 50 states.

Most of our products are on hand and will ship directly from our headquarters in New York City. In some cases, watches will be shipped directly from one of our authorized partners.

We generally ship our products via FedEx, fully insured, within 5 business days of purchase. An adult signature is required for receipt of all packages for insurance purposes. Expedited shipping is available at an additional cost. We are also happy to hand deliver your purchase in Manhattan or you may pick it up at our showroom.

Returns must be sent overnight or by priority international delivery, fully insured and paid for by the customer. A restocking fee may apply. Watches must be returned in the same condition as initially shipped.

We welcome international buyers, please contact us prior to purchase for additional details on shipping and payment options.

Rolex Explorer I

Rolex Explorer I

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Rolex Explorer I

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