Lot 22
Rolex. A striking and rare stainless steel automatic wristwatch with tropical dial
Oyster Perpetual Explorer, Ref.1016, Case No.1157755, made circa 1965, purchased new in 1965
Auction: 20 November 2025 from 14:00 GMT
Description
Cal.1560 self-winding movement, faded ‘tropical’ gilt dial, tritium indexes and lower quarter numerals, steel Mercedes hands, centre seconds, stainless steel Oyster case with screw-down reverse and Oyster crown, smooth bezel. Case, dial and movement signed, inner case stamped 1.65.
Accompanied by a Rolex green wallet containing original numbered chronometer certificate with movement number noted, Rolex numbered warranty stamped by retailer Artland Watch Co., Hong Kong and dated 7-10-65 and Explorer promotional card.
Dimensions
Diameter 36mm.
Provenance
From the family of the original owner, the watch was apparently purchased new by a British Merchant Navy Seaman in Hong Kong while travelling extensively around the Far East as a merchant seaman. He wore the watch daily and treasured it greatly, stating that the bracelet was damaged and removed in the late 1960's during an attempted mugging in Manila, when he steadfastly refused to let his prized Rolex be stolen and fought off the would-be thieves. Offered for sale for the first time since new, this lot offers potential buyer an excellent opportunity to acquire a stunning and honest tropical dial Explorer.