Rolex oyster peretual 1018 from 1967

Rolex Explorer-style Precision 1018 — Patinated Elegance From the Late ’60s

A reference you almost never see in the wild, the Rolex 1018 is the quiet achiever of vintage Rolex collecting — a no-nonsense, time-only Precision model that wears like an Explorer 36 but remains vastly rarer. This example carries a beautifully aged patina dial: warm, even, and full of character without compromising legibility.

The watch is head-only, paired with a clean leather strap, giving you that pure, honest vintage presence on the wrist. It’s the type of piece that feels intentionally understated but deeply rewarding to anyone who knows what the 1018 really is — a cult reference with real collector gravity.
As always, it comes with our 2-year in-house warranty.

Technical Background

The Rolex 1018 was produced in notably low numbers compared to the 1016 or 5500 series, making surviving examples scarce today. Powered by the robust Calibre 1560, it delivers the smooth reliability of 1960s Rolex engineering in a clean, Explorer-like format. With a 36mm case and no date window, it captures the essence of classic tool-watch simplicity. This 1967 piece, with its naturally patinated dial, embodies that era perfectly.

Tech Sheet

Reference: 1018
Serial: 1588XXX
Year: 1967

Size: 36 mm
Movement: Rolex Cal. 1560 automatic
Dial: Patina dial with even, warm ageing
Crystal: Acrylic
Lug Width: 20 mm
Condition: Vintage, honest condition with attractive patina; head only
Warranty: 2-year store warranty
Strap: Leather strap