Rolex Air-King
The Oyster Perpetual Air‑King celebrates the aeronautical heritage of the original Oyster. It pays tribute to those for whom the sky promised adventure, discovery and groundbreaking achievement – a springboard for new ideals. The Air‑King reflects the special relationship between Rolex and aviation during its golden age in the 1930s. It honours the pilots of that era and the role played by the original Oyster watches at the height of aviation’s development.
The 1930s were marked by rapid advances in aircraft performance that led to the first long-distance flights. Several pilots wore an Oyster on their record-breaking journeys, while others used a Rolex wristwatch as an onboard chronometer. In 1934, Owen Cathcart-Jones and Ken Waller completed a record return flight between London and Melbourne aboard a twin-engine De Havilland “Comet”.
A distinctive aesthetic
The Air-King features a black dial with enlarged numerals at 3, 6 and 9 o’clock and a prominent minute scale for optimal reading of navigational time. The Rolex crown appears in yellow, while the seconds hand and the Rolex name are presented in the brand’s emblematic green. The model is immediately recognisable by the characteristic Air‑King lettering used since the watch was introduced in 1958.
The Chromalight display makes the Air‑King highly legible in all conditions, including darkness. The numerals at 3, 6 and 9, the triangular hour marker at 12 o’clock and the hands are filled or coated with a long-lasting blue luminescent material.
Reliability and distinctive features
A symbol of robustness and reliability, the 40 mm Oyster case of the Air‑King is guaranteed waterproof to a depth of 100 metres. Its middle case is crafted from a solid block of Oystersteel, an exceptionally corrosion-resistant alloy.
The Air‑King is fitted with a three-piece link Oyster bracelet in Oystersteel. It includes the Rolex-designed and patented Oysterlock safety clasp, which prevents accidental opening, and the Easylink comfort extension link, allowing the wearer to adjust the bracelet by approximately 5 mm.
Perpetual calibre 3230
The Air‑King is powered by calibre 3230, a self-winding mechanical movement developed and manufactured entirely by Rolex. It offers enhanced performance in precision, power reserve, convenience and reliability. The movement incorporates the exclusive blue Parachrom hairspring and patented Chronergy escapement and provides a power reserve of approximately 70 hours.
Superlative Chronometer certification
Like all Rolex watches, the Air‑King carries the Superlative Chronometer certification. This designation confirms that every watch has passed a series of tests conducted by Rolex in its own laboratories and according to its own criteria before leaving the manufacture. The green seal accompanying each Rolex watch symbolises this status and is coupled with an international five-year guarantee.
