In the vintage market, dominated by the Daytona and Submariner, the Explorer1 is often overshadowed, but it goes without saying they’re still very popular worldwide.

The initial type in the early ‘50s varied in many of it’s references as well as the dial but this was typical of the ref.6350. The watches I have are split in two with the Honeycomb dial and Gilt dial with Chapter Ring.

Ref. 6035 Honeycomb dial

Ref.6035 Gilt with Chapter Ring

In terms of preference, the lean mirror is a feature of the honeycomb dial. If you like glossy dial , you should choice gilt dial with CR . Needles are unique to their age with model and condition having a significant impact on their value. Ref.6150 without any chronometer certificate’ … I also have the Red Depth for example.

Since the next ref.1016 had been produced for roughly 30 years, we would think the first model and the latest model are completely different from each other. In vintage market, 1016 with Gilt CR dial has more attentions, as in the case of submariner with crown guard.

It feels more modern than antique and may be better than the ref.6350 for someone that prefers a more modern atmosphere.

LEFT) 1016 Gilt CR UNDERLINE / RIGHT) 1016 Gilt CR EXCLAMATION

Ref.1016 Gilt CR UNDERLINE