Rolex Explorer 1016: A Family Heirloom

kev09 · 2017-05-31T10:03:11Z

Discover kev09's Rolex Explorer Ref. 1016, a family heirloom passed from father to son. Read about its journey, Rolex service, and generational appeal.

kev09

WPS member · Rolex forum

28 replies4730 views4 photos

Kev09 shares a deeply personal story about his Rolex Explorer Ref. 1016, a watch that has journeyed through generations of his family. This post highlights the emotional value watches can carry beyond their horological significance, illustrating how a timepiece can become a cherished family heirloom. His narrative explores the unique bond between a father and son, cemented by a shared appreciation for a classic Rolex.

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I bought this watch from new in May 1986 and wore it happily for many years as my son was growing up. As he got older he developed an interest in my watches but it was clear that this one was his particular favourite. When he was approaching his 18th birthday my wife and I felt it would make a very suitable present for him but we wanted it to be a surprise and came up with a plan. Months before the due date I stopped wearing it and he soon noticed its absence on my wrist. When he asked about it I lied shamelessly to him; told him I had sold it to fund another purchase. Gratifyingly, he was most upset. No, don't feel sorry for him I think an occasional disappointment is good for a young man.

After the recriminations had subsided I sent the watch to Rolex and asked for the full spa treatment. Also, because the dial had developed a quite nice patina but I felt he would prefer a more modern look, I asked that the dial be replaced. Of course I requested the return of the original.

Rolex did a lovely job on the watch and it was returned looking brand new. All that remained was to put it in its box with all the other bits and pieces and give it to him on the big day.

Happily, he was delighted with his watch and wore it with great pleasure until he acquired his no-date Submariner (but that's another story). The watch is now back with me for safekeeping and, of course, I can wear it whenever I like. It's not a Patek but it was looked after for the next generation and being a Rolex, I am confident it will give pleasure to another generation - my young grandson. I hope you enjoyed looking at our lovely "family" watch. Regards Kev.

About the Rolex Explorer Ref. 1016

The reference 1016 is a notable iteration of the Explorer model, recognized for its robust design and clear legibility. It represents a period of consistent design language for the Explorer line, maintaining core aesthetic principles while incorporating incremental technical refinements. This reference is particularly distinguished by its long production run, allowing for various dial and case nuances across its manufacturing years.

This reference features a 36 mm stainless steel Oyster case, providing a durable and functional enclosure for the automatic caliber 1570 movement. The movement offers a power reserve of approximately 42-48 hours. The watch is fitted with an acrylic crystal, contributing to its vintage appeal and period-correct specifications. Water resistance is rated at 100 meters, underscoring its design for practical use.

For collectors, the reference 1016 holds interest due to its enduring design and the variations found within its production. Different dial types, such as gilt and matte, are observed, each appealing to specific collecting preferences. Its straightforward time-only display and tool-watch aesthetic make it a representative example of the Explorer series' foundational principles.

Specifications

Caliber: 1570

Case: Stainless steel

Diameter: 36 mm

Dial: Black

Water Resist.: 100m

Crystal: Acrylic

Key Points from the Discussion

Passing down watches to children while still alive allows parents to witness their joy and appreciation, creating lasting memories.
Rolex watches are known for their durability and longevity, making them ideal family heirlooms that can be serviced and enjoyed for generations.
When requesting a dial replacement from Rolex, it's important to explicitly ask for the return of the original hands as they may not be automatically included.
Gifting a watch for a significant birthday, like a 20th, creates powerful, enduring memories and can establish a lifelong connection to the timepiece.
The Rolex Explorer 1016 is praised for its simple, classic, and no-frills design, embodying 'the real deal' for many collectors.
The specific design and style of the Rolex Explorer 1016 is particularly tempting for collectors who appreciate its understated elegance.

The Discussion

Baron - Mr Red

May 31, 2017

......thank you so much for sharing it. I did a similar thing with my son on his 18th birthday, though it was with an IWC 666 Ingenieur. But it creates a great memory and a part of history. Again, many thanks for sharing. Joe

Bill

May 31, 2017

Father to Son who becomes a father and so a great tradition to share. I must say the condition of the dial you removed is amazing. Did you keep the original hands? Full set - 8 mil serial fitting perfectly to 1986. A perfect way to enclose such a wonderful gift. Enjoy

kev09

May 31, 2017

I didn't mention in the original post that when I sent the watch to Rolex and asked them to return the dial so that we could revert to the original look, I naively assumed that they would automatically return the hands. Sadly that wasn't the case. Thanks again for your comments. Regards Kev.

geross

May 31, 2017

I too did the same with my Airking 1983 vintage. Rolexes really last very sturdy. Just have to have it serviced every 3 5 or even 7 years. Cheers to Rolexes true family heirlooms. Geross.

Alkiro1

May 31, 2017

My parents offered me a Breitling for my 20th birthday and, of course, I still own it (almost 20 years today). If I should only own just one, it would be this one. So good memories. That's one of the nicest present a father can do to his son. Best wishes Alkiro

mahesh

May 31, 2017

carrying memories across generations! Incredibly valuable !! Best, mahesh.,

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About the Rolex Explorer Ref. 1016

Specifications

Key Points from the Discussion

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