Inherited Rolex Explorer (Ref 1016?)

[cofc07]

I inherited a Rolex Explorer that belonged to my father. The watch does not currently run, and definitely has earned some righteous patina through years of wear.

The watch is not yet in my possession, so I can't tell you the serial number. I've attached some photos in hopes that someone can verify that is it a Ref 1016.

Additionally, was hopeful this forum could provide some recommendations on who to use to service this watch? The watch currently resides in Washington, DC area if that helps. Happy to ship it off if that's a better option

I'm looking for the movement to be serviced to get the watch running. Cosmetically, I'd just like it cleaned, and maybe remove the rust stains, and polish the acrylic crystal (I think it's acrylic from the pics). I would not polish, or mess with the dial and hands.

Appreciate any advice or thoughts on this. Excited to bring new life to this watch.

[cofc07]

See attached.

[jpwv]

congrats. sounds great. look forward to seeing pics.

[Tools]

Nice looking watch that seems to be in excellent shape.

You do want the crystal replaced, not polished. They become brittle with age.

Check in with Watchmakers International (Bob Ridley) out in Texas. He is a well regarded vintage Rolex watchmaker.

[bonovox]

It's not a hard watch to service. I'd find a good local watchmaker that you can physically go to for drop off and pick up. Most offer a warranty of a year or two. I'm not a big fan of shipping an heirloom, regardless of the carrier or the speed of delivery.

[Finslayer83]

Rik or LA Watchworks

[fania123]

Rolliworks, done!

[Ssunnylee24]

LA Watchworks and Rolliworks are so backed up but either would do the job right.

[214270Explorer]

Ridley Watchmakers Contact Information

I only use CW21 watchmakers.
If you do not mind mailing your watch, look up:

Bob Ridley, Dallas, TX
https://watchmakers.com/contact-us/
817-276-1400

or his son

Phillip Ridley, Mesa, Arizona
phillip@ridleywatchmakers.com
817-821-2118

They are both CW21's, Rolex Vintage experts, and will be glad to speak to you in great detail about your vintage (or other) Rolex needs

[winst]

That’s going to be such a good watch once you get the work completed on it!

[gerry100]

lots of character lines- please do not polish

[cofc07]

Appreciate all of the advice thus far, all! I assure you I won't be polishing this watch.

[WalterW]

Rik is great.

[liberalclown]

I would visit NYC RSC and check with them first before going third party.

[dannyp]

Amazing watch. Though “inherited” implies you lost something far greater, in which case condolence are in order.

[mbc]

Agree with all, that will clean up very nicely. Strong endorsement for Phillip Ridley as well, he’s worked on many vintage watches for me, very thoughtful and meticulous.

[Yellow5]

My condolences. Great watch, take good care of it, the old explorers are the best watch made by Rolex. Opinions differ, but that’s mine. Enjoy it.

[Sunny Arizona]

Originally Posted by liberalclown

I would visit NYC RSC and check with them first before going third party.

Definitely not in this case.

[DCheeta]

Originally Posted by liberalclown

I would visit NYC RSC and check with them first before going third party.

Originally Posted by Sunny Arizona

Definitely not in this case.

Yeah, I agree. Not with vintage. In my naive youth I brought them a 40-year old 1680 and they polished the sh*t out of it. I don’t blame them, they’re just doing what they do, but I should have known better than to bring it there in the first place.

Go independent for vintage.

Great 1016. I'm sorry for your loss.

[Slimpee]

I’m sorry to hear about your father.

I, too, inherited a watch. After wearing it on a leather strap for a while, I decided to have the original President bracelet restored and lengthened. I used Rolliworks and have been thrilled with the results. With the restored bracelet, I feel as if I have started adding my own chapter to the watch’s history and makes it feel a bit more mine. Perhaps you will feel the same way once you have your watch services!

[Casotakar]

What a beauty. Great looking watch, so classy and timeless. Good luck with the restoration and look forward to seeing results.