Rolex presents a new generation of its Air-King at this year’s Watches & Wonders, with a completely redesigned case, including a crown guard. This is the first major update to the Air-King line since 2016, when at Baselworld of that year Rolex unveiled the familiar, green-accented dial configuration which now defines the series.
Like on the majority of Professional category models, the sides of the Air-King are now straight. The proportions of the bracelet have also been revisited, notably the center link has been broadened. In a first for the model, it is also now equipped with an Oysterlock safety clasp.
Fans of the Air-King will also notice changes on the the black dial. There is a now a “0” before the “5” on the minutes scale. As a consequence, each five-minute interval is now marked by two digits, lending the layout a more balanced design.
In addition, the watch face benefits from an optimized Chromalight display, guaranteeing maximum legibility in dark conditions. The hands and triangular hour marker at 12 o’clock are filled or coated with a new luminescent material that provides a longer-lasting intense glow. The 3, 6 and 9 numerals, which were previously made entirely from 18 ct white gold, are now also visible in the dark.
The 40mm Oystersteel case houses the caliber 3230, which, like all Rolex watches, carries the Superlative Chronometer certification which includes a C.O.S.C. chronometer certificate. Released in 2020 and is fitted for the Air-King it offers outstanding performance in terms of precision, power reserve (70 hours), resistance to shocks and magnetic fields, and reliability.
The Oyster Perpetual Air-King comes with an Oyster bracelet, patented Oysterlock folding safety clasp, and Easylink extension, which allows the wearer to easily adjust the length by approximately 5 mm. The watch retails for $7,400.
To learn more, visit Rolex, here.
