1969 UNPOLISHED MKI ROLEX EXPLORER I Ref 1016 WITH VIETNAM MILITARY HISTORY

Beautiful original, and unpolished condition on this 1969 Rolex Explorer I. The watch bears a vintage engraving “199th Brigade, Vietnam, 1970”. The 199th Brigade was a trainers’ special unit sent to Vietnam on a few occasions to train troops. The “dented” engraving is typical of the epoch. The unpolished case remains strong and even with its original brush finish. Please note the 4th digit of the serial #, number 9, has part of its bottom part erased by the brushing of the bracelet end link, yet it is still very distinguishable. The dial shows no damage or wear and offers a beautiful patina, matching both on the index markers as well as on the original tritium hands set. The original bracelet, reference 7836-258 shows some light stretch, composed of 12 links and dated 2.70. The movement is running strong, +/- 4 seconds /day and the watch has passed the waterproof test to 2 ATM.