Explorer 1016 - what do you think.?

[River2020]

Hi - I’m a newbie and struggling to upload photos - I hope this one has worked.?
Looking for peoples thoughts on this watch. It’s been in the family since the late 60’s..
The serial number is worn but I can see there are 6 digits starting with 5 1..
So I think it’s quite early - is that good or bad.? It went to Rolex in London late 90’s for a new s/s strap and a service but I cannot find any of the original or service paperwork.
Is the dial good.? And are the hands genuine. I need to insure it so trying to gather as much info as I can.

Many thanks

[River2020]

Here a photo.. hopegullt

[River2020]

Ok.. now I’ve successfully uploaded 1 (albeit pathetic) photo - I will try and do some better ones.. appreciate any thoughts - whole new world to me.. ��

[chinaski]

Appears to be a redial, unsure about the hands.

[River2020]

What does a redial mean please.?

[Juhuatai]

Redial means the original dial has been painted over. The dial is sadly now worthless. Hands look to be genuine.

[River2020]

Oh well that’s intriguing as has only been out of the family’s hands once to go to Rolex..
is that something they would have done during the service.?

[Juhuatai]

No, most likely not.

[Dan S]

Originally Posted by River2020

Oh well that’s intriguing as has only been out of the family’s hands once to go to Rolex..
is that something they would have done during the service.?

Based on the serial number you mentioned, the watch is from 1960-ish, and you said your family acquired it in the late 60s. The dial should have gilt printing I believe.

[River2020]

That’s disappointing to hear.. I can’t imagine when that would have happened..
it’s due to go back to Rolex after lockdown to verify the serial number..
I shall see what they say..
I’ve uploaded a clearer pic.. hopefully.,
Thanks

[Juhuatai]

I'm actually surprised that Rolex didn't replace the dial during the service in the 90's.

[River2020]

Unfortunately I don’t know what they were asked to do.. The watch belonged to my late parents and I just remember it had a worn leather strap and the glass was quite scratched so mum wanted them changed.. no mention of a dial.. I’m surprised Rolex worked on it if it had been repainted.?

[Mike Wood]

The dial has been reprinted, and this may have been carried out by Rolex UK or a Rolex jeweller. The hands are service replacements.

This does have a negative effect on the value of the watch today, but it is part of the watch's history.

Sadly, Rolex have little interest in maintaining these watches, and you will likely be referred on to Steve Hale Watch Repairs.

Enjoy it for what it is!

MW