1974 MKIII EXCEPTIONAL 100% ORIGINAL ROLEX EXPLORER I REF 1016

Offered for sale is the very sought after Rolex Explorer I reference 1016. One of the 2 or 4 most iconic models from Rolex, an ever lasting design, with its origins with Edmund Hillary and the conquest of the Everest in 1953.
This example hereby offered for the savvy collector, is 100% original. The tritium Mark 3 dial is immaculate and unmolested, retaining its original hands which have developed a light cream patina. The watch retains its original dome crystal which tends to magnify the Arabic digits on the dial and gives a much smoother wear than the later flat crystals.
The case is very thick with sharp edges. The original back case is also strong and tightens very smoothly. Rolex stopped dating the back cases in 1972, being the last year, so this undated back case is fully correct.
The original Rolex Oyster bracelet, reference 7836, full size, shows very little stretch and retains its original end 258 links. The Rolex logo has not been over polished and stands out strong.