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The Rolex Air-King is a 40mm anti-magnetic pilot's watch with one of the most distinctive dials in the current Rolex line. Its aviation roots go back to 1945, and today it sits firmly in Rolex's Professional family. Time 4 Diamonds, London-based since 2005, authenticates and warranties every Air-King we sell.
What defines the Rolex Air-King
For most of its history the Air-King was a 34mm entry-level Rolex. That changed in 2016, when Rolex reintroduced it as the reference 116900: a 40mm anti-magnetic tool watch sharing its case and calibre 3131 movement with the Milgauss. The black dial, reportedly modelled on the dashboard instruments of the Bloodhound land-speed car, mixes large Arabic minute numerals with applied 3, 6 and 9 hour markers, a green seconds hand and a yellow and green Rolex coronet.
In 2022 Rolex updated the model to the current reference 126900. It added crown guards, Chromalight lume on the 3, 6 and 9 markers, a zero before the five on the minute track, a wider bracelet and the Oysterlock clasp with Easylink extension. The bigger change sits inside: the newer calibre 3230 lifts the power reserve to 70 hours.
Rolex Air-King references and specifications
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Current reference | 126900 (2022) |
| Previous reference | 116900 (2016) |
| Case size | 40mm Oyster, Oystersteel |
| Movement | Calibre 3230 (126900), calibre 3131 (116900) |
| Power reserve | 70 hours (126900), 48 hours (116900) |
| Water resistance | 100 metres |
| Configuration | Single reference, steel only, no dial or metal options |
The Air-King is unusual in the Rolex catalogue because it is a one-reference line with no material, dial or bracelet options. The 126900 and 116900 look nearly identical at a glance, with the crown guards, the Chromalight markers and the newer movement being the main points of difference.
Buying a pre-owned Rolex Air-King
The Air-King appeals to buyers who want a modern steel Rolex sports watch with a design that stands apart from the Submariner or GMT-Master II. We check dial originality, case sharpness and clasp condition on every piece before listing. Buyers who like a cleaner three-hander often also consider the Rolex Oyster Perpetual, and those drawn to the shared anti-magnetic lineage look at the discontinued Rolex Milgauss.
You can view the full selection of Rolex watches across our collection, and our team can confirm which Air-King references we currently hold.
Rolex Air-King FAQs
What is the difference between the 126900 and 116900 Air-King?
The 126900 adds crown guards, Chromalight lume on the 3, 6 and 9 markers, a redesigned bracelet clasp and the calibre 3230 with a 70-hour reserve. The 116900 uses the older calibre 3131 with a 48-hour reserve.
What size is the Rolex Air-King?
The modern Air-King has a 40mm Oystersteel case. Earlier vintage Air-King references such as the 5500 were 34mm.
Is the Rolex Air-King anti-magnetic?
Yes. The modern Air-King is built as an anti-magnetic pilot's watch, a feature it shared with the Milgauss during the 116900 generation.
To check current Air-King availability or arrange a viewing in London, contact Time 4 Diamonds by phone or WhatsApp.