The 1016 is a superb entry-level vintage Rolex, but my advice would be look for something special. The watch seen here is a reference 6610, which is the immediate predecessor to the 1016 (this particular example dates to the first quarter of 1958). While 6610s are practically never seen - some say that for every 20 1016 Explorers, there is one 6610 - they can be had between $9,000 and $13,000 based on condition. Sure, it’s a lot of money for the average guy on the street, but if it’s your one and only nice watch, it’s better long term play to save up a little while longer and get something rare, and frankly not understood by watch buyers at large.
This particular timepiece is exceedingly special for a few other reasons, too. The first think you’ll notice is that the dial, over time, has turned to a light shade of brown. These are called "tropical" dials, and are extremely desired by collectors. The fading is, in fact, a defect in the paint on the dial but that doesn’t change the fact that collectors will pay an enormous premium for such examples. This particular tropical dial is a beautiful color of brown (others can resemble, well...feces). Additionally, the "Officially Certified Chronometer" markings on the dial are silver instead of gold. You practically never see this. Add in the fact that the case is nice and thick and you have a really, really special watch. In fact, when I was shown this old Explorer, I got more excited about it than if someone had shown me any number of COMEX Subs, or Paul Newman Daytonas. Yes, those are great watches, but they are essentially commodities, available to anyone with the money. A tropical, silver OCC, 6610 Explorer is something really special, and despite the fact that it costs considerably less than any of those mega Subs or Daytonas, it is ultimately a much, much cooler watch.
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