Pre-Owned
Rolex Air-King Watches

The Rolex Air-King has an intriguing heritage that resonates with watch enthusiasts worldwide. Let's embark on a journey through time, exploring the birth and evolution of this iconic watch, its ties with the golden age of aviation, and the memorable milestones marking its illustrious history.

Introduced in 1945 as a tribute to the valiant pilots of the British Royal Air Force during World War II, the Air-King was one of four similarly titled watches. The other three were Air Lion, Air Tiger and Air Giant, with only the Air King surviving today.

Its primary function was to deliver precise timekeeping to aviators, backed by its sturdy construction and accurate movement.

Its association with the golden era of aviation during the 1950s and 1960s, when it was worn by pilots and aviation aficionados, enhances its allure. Known for its precision and reliability, the Rolex Air-King was the ideal companion for those in the cockpit.

For several decades the dial design of the Air King remained relatively simple, while the size of the steel case was kept to a modest 34mm. Along with the Oyster Perpetual, it was considered a no-frills entry-level Rolex model.

In 2014, Rolex discontinued the Air-King, removing it from its lineup. However, the Crown reintroduced this classic to its collection two years later with the much larger reference 116900. This model breathed new life into the Air-King, thanks to its distinctive black dial with a combination of large Arabic numerals at 3, 6 and 9 o’clock and its prominent double-digt minutes scale.

It bears the name ‘Air-King’ in vivid green on the dial in the same lettering that was specially designed for the model in the 1950s—in keeping with the watch’s heritage. The Rolex crown logo is also a striking yellow.

Constructed from 904L Oystersteel, modern Air-Kings ensure durability and corrosion resistance. This top-grade stainless-steel alloy is renowned for its robustness and enduring quality. The Oystersteel case and bracelet of the Air-King offer a sleek appearance, emphasising longevity and dependability.

Alongside its distinctive aesthetics, contemporary Rolex Air-King models house unique features that distinguish it from other watches. The reference 126900, introduced in 2022, incorporates a newer movement—the calibre 3230—offering a longer power reserve of approximately 70 hours. The scratch-resistant sapphire crystal protects the dial, testifying to the watch's exceptional craftsmanship.

The reference 126900 also differs from the 116900 in that it added crown guards and replaced the “5” numeral with “05” for a more aesthetically balanced dial.

The Rolex Air-King has attracted a loyal following over the years. This includes several celebrities who value its understated sophistication and fine craftsmanship.

Canadian crooner, Michael Bublé, has been photographed wearing his Rolex Air-King. His choice affirms the Air-King's status as a symbol of refinement and luxury. Actor and heartthrob, Ryan Gosling, owns a vintage Air-King model, which he could effortlessly pair with outfits on and off the red carpet thanks to its understated design.

These are just a couple of famous personalities who appreciate the Rolex Air-King's timeless appeal. With its rich heritage and impeccable design, it's no surprise that this iconic timepiece continues to be a favourite among celebrities and watch enthusiasts alike.

Shop our range of pre-owned Rolex Air-King watches including vintage and contemporary models online today.