Rolex 1016 Explorer James Bond / Ian Fleming watch model, dial close-up
Although Rolex made its reference 1016 Explorer I model for many years, only a few were similar to what Ian Fleming wore — and the example upon which he based his original, literary James Bond watch.
Item number 230718585924, currently available for auction on eBay, is one that meets that criteria.
Radium dial intact.
Riveted bracelet, with proper end links.
In the time since this Rolex Explorer 1016 first came up as a listing, I’ve been in frequent contact with the seller. Beyond the auction itself, he has generously provided the images that appear with this James Bond Watches Blog post in support of current and future collectors.
This watch, with serial number 516,723, dates to the second quarter of 1960 (additionally see caseback images, below). That means it was produced less than a year before the Ian Fleming watch. Recall that the Fleming-Bond watch evidences either case number 596,351 or 596,851.
It’s been speculated that this particular iteration of the Rolex 1016, dating to turn of the decade, was moving through official jewelers at a time of increasing sensitivity to dangers associated with the use of radium for wristwatch luminescence. Fearful customers and assertive store owners pressed to have these dials replaced. And they did.
That’s part of the reason why continue reading…
