Lot 128
  • 128

Rolex

Estimate
2,000 - 3,000 GBP
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Description

  • A stainless steel automatic centre seconds wristwatchcirca 1967 ref 1016 Oyster Perpetual Explorer no 159055
  • diameter 36mm.
cal.1570 nickel lever movement, 26 jewels, mono-metallic compensation balance, adjusted to 5 positions and temperature • black gloss dial, luminous Arabic, triangular and baton numerals, centre seconds, gilt tracks • stainless steel Oyster case with screw-down crown and case back, polished chamfered bezel • case, dial and movement signed • with a stainless steel Rolex Oyster bracelet and folding clasp

Condition

Great example of the reference - very rare to find with a punched original certificate. Movement running. Lovely glossy dial with gilt tracks, some light spotting mainly towards the edges. Some signs of surface corrosion to the hands. Case with light scuffs, some small scratches to the bezel. Bracelet links with light scuffs throughout. Highly recommended.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. All dimensions in catalogue descriptions are approximate. Condition reports may not specify mechanical replacements or imperfections to the movement, case, dial, pendulum, separate base(s) or dome. Watches in water-resistant cases have been opened to examine movements but no warranties are made that the watches are currently water-resistant. Please note that we do not guarantee the authenticity of any individual component parts, such as wheels, hands, crowns, crystals, screws, bracelets and leather bands, since subsequent repairs and restoration work may have resulted in the replacement of original parts. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue. In particular, please note it is the purchaser's responsibility to comply with any applicable import and export matters, particularly in relation to lots incorporating materials from endangered species.NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

**Please be advised that bands made of materials derived from endangered or otherwise protected species (i.e. alligator and crocodile) are not sold with the watches and are for display purposes only. We reserve the right to remove these bands prior to shipping.

Important Notice regarding importation into the United States of Rolex watches
Sotheby's cannot arrange for the delivery of Rolex watches to the United States because U.S. laws restricts the import of Rolex watches. The buyer or a designated agent may collect the property in the country of sale."

Catalogue Note

Accompanied by Rolex booklet containing original number punched certificate, booklet, Explorer leaflet and presentation case.

The Origins of the Rolex Explorer is in its name. Originally designed for explorers, it had a high visibility dial, an extra strong case and, upon request, it could be lubricated with a special oil so it could withstand temperatures between -20C and +40C without changes in viscosity. It was widely acclaimed that this watch was designed and made in honour of Edmund Hilary and Tenzing Norgay who were the first men to reach the summit of Everest on May 29 1953; however, evidence suggests that this watch was used on previous expeditions as Rolex registered the name in 1953.
The Rolex Explorer is one of the most recognizable of all Rolex watches. Its large black dial, triangular luminous marker at 12 and Arabic numeral quarters give this watch a very distinguished look and is the perfect blend of a sports and a dress watch. For further information on the Explorer model see: Skeet & Urul, Vintage Rolex Sports Models, 2nd Edition.