Number of 1016-1560 Explorer 1 watches made?

[DavidRF]

Greetngs all. I just registered after reading a closed thread that is mostly about the watch cited. I got curious about mine & find a gold mine in these forums. Did not however see a comment about the question I pose above: Is there a place that will list the quantity made of the 1016 Explorer?

For the record, I bought my 1016-1560 while I was in Viet Nam, in 1969 or 1970. I don't know how to remove the bracelet or I would list the serial number. Likewise I have the box (but not the lining) and the certification paper, if I can find the right file.

I have been wearing this Explorer since I bought it ~ 40 years ago. Had to replace the crystal when it began to separate, and have replaced one pin on the second link at the bottom of the face. Otherwise it has been completely reliable and is still presentable.

[Subexplorer]

Hello David!
Welcome aboard TRF, and I wish you´ll enjoy this place.

A good set of photographs of your watch would be very interesting, as interesting is its story.
It´s easy to take the bracelet off to see the inscriptions between lugs, which will tell you the serial number. Or you can take it to a watchmaker for this task.
If you can get the papers, they will tell the number anyway.

Regarding your question, I don´t really know the answer, but may be some more knowledgeable members of TRF can give you a hint.

I wish you will keep enjoying your Explorer. It´s a great, classic watch indeed.
Cordial regards, Abel.

[adam78]

Is yours a gilt dial (gold printing on gloss dial)? The cal. 1560 was used until the mid-60s, about 1965 or so. Although you bought yours in 1970, I suspect it was manufactured quite a bit earlier.

I don't think any manufacturing records are available publicly, only the progression of serial numbers, but of course that doesn't break down production of individual models.

[DavidRF]

I will take advantage of the holiday to photograph the watch & post the shots. Also must find the certification. Not looking to sell the watch any time soon (as long as I am conscious) but it might add to the value a couple of bucks, sometime in the indefinite future!

[DavidRF]

<<Is yours a gilt dial (gold printing on gloss dial)? >>

No, dial is has white printing on a black matte dial. I think I should have done more research before starting this conversation! As I said to Abel, I need to find the certificate, which will tell all. Also need to take the Nikon out of its cabinet & post some pics. I said above I bought the watch while I was in Viet Nam. What I forgot to say was that I bought it from a trading company based in Hong Kong & Agana, Guam. Price at the time was $US 135. First time I had it serviced in Chicago about 5 years later, the charge was about $150. Then I really realized what I had!