Hello. Advice on Explorer 1016?

[Lightexplorer]

Hello all,

This is my fathers 1959 1016 Explorer. He wore this watch pretty much every day for most of his life and at some point in time he replaced the original bracelet with an aftermarket one. I have no idea where the original bracelet is. Anyway, I would like to know if it is worth seeking out a replacement riveted Rolex bracelet for it from around the same period, or to simply put a new bracelet on which a local AD offered to me for just over 1000 bucks.

Thanks much.

photos attached.

[Dan S]

We can't see the photos, but I think it's really a matter of personal preference.

With some patience, you can find a nice Swiss rivet bracelet, but you will probably pay about $2500.

Personally, I like rivet bracelets a lot, so I would prefer to wear it on a rivet bracelet. But I would be satisfied with finding the correct type of bracelet. Finding one from 1959 would be challenging, and maybe not worth the trouble. If I found a good one from 1966, for example, I'd be fine with that.

Other people will say that rivet bracelets feel flimsy, they don't like wearing them, and they're afraid they will break. Modern bracelets have a more solid feel, and obviously a brand new bracelet will be more robust.

So it really depends on budget, taste, and how much emotional value you place on having a period-correct bracelet.

[Tools]

I would not have any issues with putting a more modern bracelet on an early classic watch. It's new, fresh, and in top shape.

Bracelets and straps were never meant to last forever and are expected to be replaced when they wear out and is common to see.

If for some reason you have a bug to have it "era correct", then that is valid too, and part of the enjoyment for a watch enthusiast.

No right or wrong here.

[Lightexplorer]

Hi all,

Thanks for that feedback, and sorry I couldn't post the images here. I tried to post a link to the photos on Flickr but it didn't work.

I've searched Chrono24 and some other places and there are a few older bracelets out there, circa 1960s. They seem to go for around 3 or 4k.

[Lightexplorer]

I think I will take your advice and get a new one from my AD in town here. I'm guessing my dad replaced the original a very long time ago when I was in high school. I have the boxes, paperwork, and warranty with it, which is at least something.

Many Thanks to you all.

[Dan S]

Originally Posted by Lightexplorer

Hi all,

Thanks for that feedback, and sorry I couldn't post the images here. I tried to post a link to the photos on Flickr but it didn't work.

I've searched Chrono24 and some other places and there are a few older bracelets out there, circa 1960s. They seem to go for around 3 or 4k.

As usual, if you look for a collectible item, you will only see the examples with high asking prices that have been sitting on the market unsold for months. I have bought quite a few for $2500 when I see them (or sometimes less with luck) and also sold some for that price. It takes patience and some knowledge.

Still, even $2500 is a lot of money for a bracelet. I just really like the rivet bracelets.

[Lightexplorer]

Originally Posted by Dan S

As usual, if you look for a collectible item, you will only see the examples with high asking prices that have been sitting on the market unsold for months. I have bought quite a few for $2500 when I see them (or sometimes less with luck) and also sold some for that price. It takes patience and some knowledge.

Still, even $2500 is a lot of money for a bracelet. I just really like the rivet bracelets.

Yes, I agree. I think they look good too. Unfortunately, I will never know what my dad did with the original. Perhaps I will sit on it for a while and think it over. I did see a 1959 riveted bracket in very good order for just under 10k which I most certainly can't afford.