Rolex Air-King

The Air-King is a polarizing watch. A sensible 40mm case of milled Oystersteel and decorated with Mark 1 Explorer numerals, green print, and a yellow crown does seem like quite the departure from usual Rolex form. And yet, it works, especially if you like the number “5”.

But first, a little history about the new Air-King: it was introduced in 2016 at Baselworld to mixed reviews. The origins of the Air-King are actually in a supersonic car designed and intended to break the land speed record — the Bloodhound SSC. The “car” is basically a jet with wheels, and its ultimate mission was to break 1,000 MPH. Rolex supplied two automatic timepieces to be built into the dash of the car, one a chronograph and one a speedometer, at pilot Andy Green’s request. The Air-King derives its design cues from these two instruments, blending the world of racing and aviation in an interesting way.

Back to the watch for a moment, the Air-King is indeed an odd name choice for a watch that derives much of its inspiration from a contemporary automotive project. But it really is, because without aviation technology (and an actual aviator; Andy Green is a true pilot), we wouldn’t have the Bloodhound and its ambitious goals. When you wear one, it’s hard to look down at your wrist and not think of those two extremely technologically advanced instruments in Bloodhound SSC.

Features & Specs:  

– 40mm antimagnetic case

– 20mm lug width  

– Black gloss dial with green and yellow accents

– Screw-down crown  

– Rolex 3131 movement

– 31 jewels

– 48-hour power reserve, 28,800bph

Scope of Delivery:

– Rolex Air-King 116900-0001 watch

– Warranty card, new-style, dated 11/2020 

– Green tag 

– White tag

– Card/booklet holder   

– Inner green “Oyster Medium” Rolex Box

– Air-King booklet

– Pillow  

This piece is 100% guaranteed authentic and in good condition. The watch has a few hairlines in the case; the sapphire is perfect; the 6 o’clock bracelet has some scuffs and marks, but shallow and no deep gashes; no dents or deep scratches.