I've been looking for a dateless, vintage Rolex in 36mm for a while.
A 1016 Explorer is a bit of a dream, but it's a minefield for those out there. Nice ones go for huge money, and more affordable ones seem likely to be frankens or have service/refinished dials. So I decided to look for a 1018 OP instead, which still fly under the radar in comparison to other 36mm references.
There are a few listed on eBay and Chrono24, and this one caught my eye.
https://www.ebay.com/itm/293542985027
No bracelet but it appeared to be clean and original— which is my main focus. The photos weren't great, so I asked the seller for a few more and received the same one, in high resolution.
Case looks sharp. Dial clean and intact. The seller has good feedback and claims the watch was just overhauled. I make an offer I think is fair and he accepts!
The watch arrived last Friday and I've been in love ever since. Today I received a new strap which I feel compliments it beautifully and gives it a whole new look. I think I did pretty good with my first vintage Rolex purchase.
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