Rolex Air King Full Steel Oyster Riveted Bracelet Blue Dial 1972

Rolex Air-King 5500 Vintage Automatic

Rolex has long been recognized for producing reliable, purpose-built timepieces that balance precision, durability, and understated design. Among its most storied lines, the Air-King stands out as a model created to honor aviation pioneers and the spirit of mid-20th-century flight. It became known for its clean aesthetic, robust Oyster case, and dependable automatic movement, making it a staple in the brand’s lineup for decades.

The Air-King Ref. 5500 is one of the most iconic references within the collection. Produced for over three decades, it represents the purest expression of the model’s philosophy: simplicity, legibility, and everyday functionality. With its compact proportions, straightforward dial layout, and strong reputation for reliability, the 5500 remains one of the most appreciated vintage Rolex watches among collectors seeking an honest, enduring classic.

Key Details To Consider

Rolex Air-King Ref. 5500 in full steel, presented in very good original condition.

The case remains exceptionally sharp, with crisp lugs and a clean bezel that highlights the watch’s strong overall presence. Its rare original blue tritium dial is in pristine condition, paired with matching tritium hands that retain their warm vintage character.

The original oyster riveted bracelet is equally well-preserved, showing virtually no stretch and retaining all 12 links. All case numbers are perfectly visible and intact, with a 3.6 million serial placing production around 1972.

The movement has been tested for accuracy and performs reliably, running at -4/-5 seconds per day with a healthy amplitude of approximately 275. This is a beautifully kept example of a classic vintage Air-King with exceptional dial quality and strong fundamentals.

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