The Watch
No doubt, this is a really interesting Rolex.
The Air-King is an interesting model within Rolex’ historic portfolio.
The watch goes back to the end of World War II with origins that are downright cool, debuting in 1945 to honour British pilots. It’s not a traditional pilot’s watch per se and was more of a tribute, but has evolved into a special series in today’s lineup. It’s also among the oldest of all Rolex models.
The ”Air-King” reference 5500 is the ”modern” version made between 1957-1989. This is the longest-running Air-King reference and represents the aesthetic that most Rolex collectors and enthusiasts think of. There were tweaks and updates during its 32-year run, but the general formula was now clearly established. The first modern Air-King was born, but it would continue to evolve into the 21st century with major changes. Here you got one of the last configurations made for the Air-King; clean, smooth and elegant!
Specific information:
Object nr: 582
Maker: Rolex
Model: Air-King
Reference: 5500
Year: 1982
Movement: Rolex cal. 1520
Material: Stainless steel
Original crown: Yes
Dimensions: 34 mm exkl crown, but wears bigger.
Strap/Bracelet: A well preserved original oyster bracelet ref nr. 78350-K1/557
Lug Width: 19mm
Box/Papers: No/No
Serviced: We have no service history of the watch but it keeps time very good. Within 5-7s/day and a amplitude ~270-280.
Condition
If this watch could talk we would love to hear the story.
The beautiful silver dial is very well preserved and have developed a beautiful ”creamy” lume, and the index’ and hands matches the dial beatifully.
The case got some small marks from wear and so does the bracelet. The case is still sharp as seen in the photo. We never ever polish our watches since we want them as authentic as possible so everyone can shows the scars from history.
The bracelet is tight and so is the clasp. The bracelet fits up to ~19.5-20 cm wrists.
The crystal is original. It got some small scratchas but nothing remarkabel.
We leave a 6 months of warranty for this watch!
The pictures is a part of the description, study therefore the pictures carefully!
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