Debating if I should leap to a 1016

[visualplane]

I'm usually getting watches around the 5-7k area, but i'm on the fence in moving up to a vintage 1016.

Pros: I like the design and it seems to have a next level mature factor to it.
Cons: Not use to 36mm, 38-39mm is my ideal size. Usually prefer waterproof watches. Need to check on that with the 1016.

I remember seeing the 1016 on a leather strap about 5 years ago. Wish I bought it as prices went up a lot. Not sure if i'll have buyers remorse, and trying it on now would be very difficult but maybe I can.

Currently have the 39mm white op, and flipping it would ease my purchase but not necessary. Not in any financial strains, but frugal in my spending habits.

On the fence here.

[jamesthejeweller]

Simple answer is yes.

Sent from my SM-N960F using Tapatalk

[L.K Johnson]

Do it! If you regret it you can just flip it!

[visualplane]

These are the two options:

(aftermarket dial?)
https://www.collectors1946.com/produ...ss-steel-watch

https://sagatrading.co/1969-rolex-ex...mk-i-frog-foot

[visualplane]

Originally Posted by visualplane

These are the two options:

(aftermarket dial?)
https://www.collectors1946.com/produ...ss-steel-watch

https://sagatrading.co/1969-rolex-ex...mk-i-frog-foot

Which of these two options is a better buy?

[L.K Johnson]

If you don’t wanna fork out that kinda buck you could also go for a 1600 with matte black dial and get use to the 36mm size...

[Dan S]

I don't think you will regret it, although it would be nice if you could test out a 36mm watch beforehand. Can you borrow one from a friend for a couple of weeks?

In principle, they are as waterproof as any other oyster case. In practice, it will depend on the seals, so you should have it pressure tested if you intend to submerge it.

[pablofields]

Originally Posted by Dan S

I don't think you will regret it, although it would be nice if you could test out a 36mm watch beforehand. Can you borrow one from a friend for a couple of weeks?

In principle, they are as waterproof as any other oyster case. In practice, it will depend on the seals, so you should have it pressure tested if you intend to submerge it.

I agree with this. Perhaps spend some time with the Tudor BB 36.

https://www.hodinkee.com/articles/wi...e-black-bay-36

[vintagewatch]

Originally Posted by visualplane

I'm usually getting watches around the 5-7k area, but i'm on the fence in moving up to a vintage 1016.

Pros: I like the design and it seems to have a next level mature factor to it.
Cons: Not use to 36mm, 38-39mm is my ideal size. Usually prefer waterproof watches. Need to check on that with the 1016.

I remember seeing the 1016 on a leather strap about 5 years ago. Wish I bought it as prices went up a lot. Not sure if i'll have buyers remorse, and trying it on now would be very difficult but maybe I can.

Currently have the 39mm white op, and flipping it would ease my purchase but not necessary. Not in any financial strains, but frugal in my spending habits.

On the fence here.

As far as the water resistance rating on the 1016 it will depend on when it was made. I believe the original 1016 (1963) was rated to 50m for water resistance. In the early 1970s (maybe earlier) the depth rating increased to 100m till production ceased in 1989. Keep in mind the depth ratings only apply if the case is sealed to factory specs.

If you're not sure on the 36mm size fitting you OK, since you live in NYC, you can most likely find a 1016 on 47th Street in the Diamond District to try on, but probably not purchase ( IMO, too many unscrupulous dealers).

[Kingface66]

Originally Posted by vintagewatch

If you're not sure on the 36mm size fitting you OK, since you live in NYC, you can most likely find a 1016 on 47th Street in the Diamond District to try on, but probably not purchase ( IMO, too many unscrupulous dealers)

Sadly, I can’t imagine jewelers on 47th, or anywhere in the city, being open anytime soon. I wish it weren’t the case, but we’ve still got a ways to go.

[subtona]

1016 is a great watch at a great size

[@orariofisso]

Case diameter is just a number. Other factors to weigh are lug size, shape and the entirely unempirical “wrist feel”. I’ve owned Panerai and vintage date-just. I wear both comfortably. Try one on in the diamond district if you can, then at least you can post a wrist shot!

[Sjmoore11]

Yes.
Yes you should.

[calebb90]

I like the watch a lot but not willing to pay current market price for one in excellent condition.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Juhuatai]

For a matte dial in good condition you're probably looking at 14-15k. Waterproofness shouldn't be an issue if the watch has new gaskets and been pressure tested.

[petehk]

You won't regret it. I recommend an early 80s version like mine. Not too difficult to find one in good condition.

Sent from my ONEPLUS A6003 using Tapatalk

[CalSRQ1]

I wanted one for a long time - finally bit the bullet a couple years ago. The 1016 is my favorite Rolex- it was the first one I ever saw (back in the early 80s a high school friend got one as a gift from his parents and I still remember staring at it in awe). Tried other versions but nothing scratched the itch.

I kept both the 14270 and the 214270 (39mm version) - the 39mm is probably my most frequently worn these days...along with the white OP which I mention because you have that one. If you keep the OP you will definitely wear both. 36mm is fine for daily wear for me - I have 7” wrists. If I only had 1 it would be the 1016. I say go for it- keep your eyes open and be patient.

[1William]

The 1016 is a cool watch but it opens the vintage conundrum. Cool watches but are they original? Do you go with box and papers or just the watch? Is the service and parts readily available and can you get the work done reasonably? Is it worth the premium that is being charged for the watch? Can I not get a similar version of the watch that is more modern with box, papers, warranty for the same or less money? I am sure there are more questions that should be asked and answered before you move forward but that is a start. I have been down the vintage watch and car rabbit hole and based on my experience and your expectations of ownership you should think long and hard about it. Until you are there though, you sometimes think it is ok. To each their own. I would pass on a 1016 for a more modern watch but that is just me. Good luck and let us know what you decide.

[Toronto Soup King]

Of all my watches I would sell my 1016 last. And mine is a VERY "honest" example, not special in the least. It's just a great watch.

Now, that said, there are 1016s and 1016s. I love mine because I can wear it anywhere and as long as I'm moderately careful not to damage it, no problem. If I'd bought an original-dial-original-hands-crisp-case-puffy-orange-lume 1964 one, I might treat it like a safe queen. If I were looking today, my preference would be a late version, R serial, 1980s, for a watch to wear. And it makes an EXCELLENT watch to wear. So if I were you I'd look for one of those, from a seller right here on this forum. That would be the best choice even if I'm happy with the way things worked out for me. Good luck eh.

[iliketime]

Theres definitely a few places to try on a 1016 in NYC, so no need to worry about that. But why not look for a 14270 or 114270.

[visualplane]

Originally Posted by iliketime

Theres definitely a few places to try on a 1016 in NYC, so no need to worry about that. But why not look for a 14270 or 114270.

As much as most people love the modern explorers, there's some details about it that I don't like personally. Love 98% of the design, but there's 2% that bugs me.

[Kingface66]

Originally Posted by visualplane

As much as most people love the modern explorers, there's some details about it that I don't like personally. Love 98% of the design, but there's 2% that bugs me.

Most people? No. Ok, maybe those who can’t appreciate that the 1016 and the modern version (14270, 114270 ) have completely different aesthetics: The modern design is a watered-down, sterile, soul-less version of a once great watch.
If you’re a vintage guy, get a 1016.
If you’re a modern guy (and with no apologies, I’m sorry) get a modern one.
But, your instincts were correct to begin with: That 2% is more reason than enough not to get one.

Apologies to the 14270 fans (honestly, I mostly being facetious...Ok, maybe half...ish)

[visualplane]

https://www.collectors1946.com/produ...ss-steel-watch

I was told:

"The mk iii dial in that listing is incorrect for a 2.1mil serial. Likely why it’s so cheap"

Is this a bad thing? Not sure what this means exactly.

Should I wait for prices to go down or just go for it? Thanks

[petehk]

Originally Posted by visualplane

https://www.collectors1946.com/produ...ss-steel-watch

I was told:

"The mk iii dial in that listing is incorrect for a 2.1mil serial. Likely why it’s so cheap"

Is this a bad thing? Not sure what this means exactly.

Should I wait for prices to go down or just go for it? Thanks

An original 2.1m serial should have a Mark 1 or Mark 2 dial. Check out this great resource below:

https://explorer1016.com/matte/mark-1/

Collectors prize originality. Take some time to hunt. Don't think prices will fluctuate much in present market.

Sent from my ONEPLUS A6003 using Tapatalk

[Juhuatai]

Second one. The first one has a giant stain on the dial at the 3'o clock position.

[statsman]

Do you laugh in the face of danger? Are you resourceful? Would your life make for an interesting story? If yes to all, go for it.

If you get one, do it justice. Wear it on more than three continents.

[visualplane]

Originally Posted by statsman

If you get one, do it justice. Wear it on more than three continents.

[mbc]

Love mine, can’t say enough about the simple beauty, sportiness and yet elegance. Here’s my II69 on a strap but have the original 7206 Swiss rivet that I wear it with as well...




Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[AJMarcus]

If you think it’s already too small it’s not going to get bigger after you buy it. I sense buyers remorse around the corner. Sounds like you already know your decision.. Good luck