Rolex Air-King
ROLEX AIR-KING
The Rolex Air-King is one of the brand’s most long-standing watch models, having undergone significant evolution throughout its history. Often regarded as an entry point into Rolex, the Air-King holds a notable position in the brand’s roster. While it may not have the same level of fame as other models like the Daytona or GMT-Master II, the Air-King offers a unique blend of sophistication, excellent functionality, and a rich historical context.
The Air-King was introduced in 1945, joining three other Air models—the Air-Lion, Air-Tiger, and Air-Giant—all of which trace their origins to the 1930s. Created to honor the British Royal Air Force during World War II, these timepieces were specifically designed with pilots' needs in mind. While each model featured subtle design variations, all prioritized easy readability. Equipped with waterproof Oyster cases, the Air models combined a clean, minimalist aesthetic with exceptional functionality. The Air-Lion, Air-Tiger, and Air-Giant have long since disappeared, leaving the Air-King as the sole surviving member of the Air collection.
The first Air-King models, references 4925, 4365, and 4499, were produced from 1945 to 1957. These timepieces featured a 34mm case size and were known for their clean, elegant dials, often with numeral hour markers that enhanced readability.
In 1958, the second generation of Air-King models, references 5500 and 5700, were launched and remained in production until 1989. While retaining the 34mm case size, these timepieces embraced a sportier look and offered a wider variety of dial options, including black, silver, blue, and cream. Rolex replaced the numeral hour markers with index markers and introduced the iconic “Air-King” lettering on the dial.
The third generation of Air-King models, references 14000, 14010, 14000M, and 1410M, were produced from 1989 to 2006. These timepieces featured numerals at the 3, 6, and 9 hour markers. While maintaining the classic 34mm case size, they offered new dial options, including white, salmon, blue, and black. Additionally, the hour markers now featured contrasting colors to the dial, enhancing visibility and adding a distinct touch to the design.
The fourth-generation Air-King model, reference 114200, was released in 2007 and stayed in circulation until 2014. The 34mm case size was kept, but Rolex upgraded the materials and technology to improve durability and accuracy. The dials were available in a variety of colors, ranging from classic shades to more modern tones.
In 2016, Rolex presented the Air-King models, references 116900 and 126900, which are the versions we know today. These timepieces come with a larger 40mm case size and a distinctive black dial with bold numerals at the 3, 6, and 9 hour markers, along with slightly smaller numerals at every 5-minute interval (reference 126900, which includes a zero prior to the 5-minute marker). Additionally, the iconic yellow crown and green “Rolex” lettering are displayed near the top of the dial. This design sets this latest generation of the Air-King apart significantly from the previous models that came before it.
The Rolex Air-King has undergone several changes throughout its history, yet it has always maintained its simple, refined style. This timepiece offers a fantastic entry point for those looking to acquire their first Rolex, providing a more accessible price while still delivering the exceptional quality and prestige associated with owning a Rolex.
We have two Rolex Air King models in stock:
Pre-owned Air-King 40mm 116900
Pre-owned Air-King 40mm 126900
