Timeless Elegance and Aviation Heritage of the Rolex Air-King
The Rolex Air-King is one of the oldest collections dating back to 1945 when it was first launched. It was the Rolex founder Hans Wilsdorf who created the collection to honor World War II pilots. Now, the watch has evolved to become an aviator’s tool with a 40mm case and a black dial with chromalight display that closely resembles cockpit instruments.
The model was briefly discontinued in 2014 only to make its comeback with an improved design in 2016 and a bigger case. Rolex Air-King is now equipped with a protective case with antimagnetic properties. In fact, the case and bracelet are identical to the Rolex Milgauss that was dedicated to scientists.
Key Features of Rolex Air-King Watches
- Precision: Any aviation enthusiast knows how important it is to keep track of time to the very second. Our used Rolex Air-King watches feature a prominent minutes scale and a combination of 3, 6, and 9 numerals in a black dial.
- Durability: When you think about Rolex Air-King, a sturdy three-piece link bracelet and patented Oyster folding safety clasp immediately come to mind. Made with high-quality stainless steel, Air-King owners can rely on their watches at any altitude.
- Chromalight display: Rolex Air-King's devotion to aviation is once more proven by the chromalight display which offers excellent time readings even in the dark.
- Waterproof: Both in the air and water, the reliability of the pre-owned Rolex Air-King won’t let you down. The Oystersteel case is sure to protect your watch mechanics in a depth of up to 100 meters.
Rolex Air-King: Brief History
When working on the Rolex Air-King, Hans Wilsdorf wasn’t expecting it would become the lasting and sought-after collection it is today. In 1945, the Air-King watches collection paid homage to RAF pilots of the Battle of Britain and was introduced as an addition to a larger collection consisting of Air-Giant, Air-Lion, Air-Tiger, etc.
The Rolex Air-King legacy began with the ref. 5500, which was also the official start of the collection. The vintage model featured a minimalistic 34mm design with reliable timekeeping. It was later replaced by the ref. 14000; the Air-King watch retained its classic look in new dial colors and bezel options like the Air-King Blue Dial.
The next model, the ref. 114200, was introduced with a larger case and bolder dial design. After a short break, Rolex innovated the latest Air-King model with the ref. 116900, boasting a 40mm case and antimagnetic properties.
Since the first launch of Rolex Air-King in 1945, the brand has reinvented the watch’s design and released a number of reference models. Here are some of them:
Price Trends for Pre-Owned Rolex Air-King
The demand for sought-after used Rolex Air-King watches has steadily risen, especially for limited models. While luxury watch prices peaked in 2022 amid the pandemic, a healthy market correction in 2023 stabilized prices.
The Rolex Air-King 116900 is no longer in production and is discontinued, making the watch a sensible investment that has the potential to appreciate in value.
Pre-owned Rolex Air-King watches are beautiful and timeless, making them great collectibles and investments. The icon may disappear from the Rolex catalog, but Watch Chest offers a chance to own a piece of aviation history.
Why Buy Used Rolex Air-King from Watch Chest?
Rare Air-King Watch Models
Finding an authentic and pre-owned Air-King from Rolex by yourself might be challenging – but it doesn’t have to be with Watch Chest. We carefully evaluate every Air-King model before making them available for purchase.
Our current selection is constantly being updated with more Air-King models so that you can find a watch to suit your attire and lifestyle. Whether you want a modern aviation watch or an iconic Air-King with the classic dial, Watch Chest is the place to find them.
Own a Discontinued Air-King Watch
With some of the Rolex Air-King models being hard to find, Watch Chest makes it possible! Whether you want to refresh your luxury watch collection or diversify your investment portfolio with the rarest timekeeping pieces, our carefully curated selection will help you find the missing piece of your collection.
Haven’t found the Air-King model you want in our stock? There is nothing stopping Watch Chest from finding the coveted Rolex watch with the help of our network of watch dealers around the world.
Use our Find a Watch service and give it some time before the Air-King model fulfills your collection.
Uncompromising Authenticity
Rolex Air-King symbolizes boldness, fearlessness, and adventurousness which is evident in the smallest details of the model. Watch Chest invests a lot of time in inspecting Air-King watches’ appearance and performance, making sure you receive the authentic Rolex watch that matches your spirit.
Sell or Trade Your Used Rolex Air-King
If your watch collection is overflowing, you can sell or trade your Rolex Air-King at Watch Chest. We offer a hassle-free solution to freeing up space for new collectibles with a fast process.
Simply fill out the form with your Air-King watch details to get started. We will then verify the information you provided and make you an attractive offer. If accepted, ship your watch to our facility for in-person inspection. The authentication usually takes a day upon which we will process a wire transfer or exchange for another timepiece.
Expert Repair and Servicing of Rolex Air-King
So many people want to get their hands on the rarest models of Rolex Air-King, so it makes sense to maintain your watch in good condition. Watch Chest offers repair and servicing services that will bring back that polished and near-original look to your favorite Air-King.
Your valuable timepieces will be in the safe and expert hands of Glenn Rutledge – our AWCI-CW21-certified master watchmaker. We ship the watch back to you with a 1-year complimentary warranty.
Buy Luxury Sports Watches from Watch Chest
At Watch Chest, you can find rare pre-owned Rolex Air-King watches authenticated and carefully inspected by us. As your trusted dealer, we ensure quality of both service and timepieces at all times.
Discover used Rolex Air-King at Watch Chest and elevate your watch collection with authenticity and style.
