1959/60 Explorer MK1 Gilt Dial Thoughts

[Jaegodylan]

Hello Friends-

Recently picked up this 1016 from the auction of the recently passed Dick Rabel aka @noiseboyuk

I have always wanted a gilt dial 1016 and this one seemed pretty honest.

Can the experts assist with anything that may be improved on with the watch?

From what I have researched the main short fall seems to be that it has service hands and a good amount of “patina” aka damage to the dial. I prefer the aged look anyway so that’s not an issue.

These photos from the auction house are not great.. should be able to add more when it arrives.

The auction house advised the serial number was worn/ilegible. No photo of the caseback.

He seems to have left a sticker on the bracelet stating 1959.

“ model no. 1016, circa 1960, the signed black dial with silver gilt Arabic quarters, baton and triangular markers, outer minutes track, Mercedes hand, automatic movement, the case 36mm, on a later black leather bracelet with Rolex crown to the clasp.”

Thanks for your help.

[Dan S]

I'm not seeing any photos and the link doesn't do anything for me. Maybe you can post a link to the listing.

[MrBlobby]

Here is the link.
https://bishopandmiller.atgportals.n...f-b12d00afc2b2

I see no point in acquiring a set of original hands.

For me there is nothing to do other than if you want a bracelet. It’s clearly not perfect but you weren’t buying a perfect example. It’s a shame that the serial is rubbing away but at the same time the estimate is a fair r3flection of the watch.

I say just enjoy it as it is.

[Jaegodylan]

Originally Posted by Dan S

I'm not seeing any photos and the link doesn't do anything for me. Maybe you can post a link to the listing.

Odd .. they are showing up on my end but I reupped them.

[996marty]

I’d enjoy it for what it is

[MrBlobby]

I could see the photos.

[Jaegodylan]

Originally Posted by 996marty

I’d enjoy it for what it is

I certainly will. It’s a legend .. and so was the collector that had it. I like that it’s lived a life and probably been to many gigs!

[TuRo]

Nice Butterfly in-situ still, sturdy midcase, dial looks good too. I'd leave the hands (non gilt service and relumed/recoloured look at merc circle esp where meets inner bit of hr hand vis very wispy lume area) but they are in-keeping.