will rolex discontinue air king | discontinued Rolex for sale

The Rolex Air-King. A name synonymous with aviation history and a surprisingly persistent presence in the Rolex catalog. For decades, it has offered a more accessible entry point into the world of Rolex, a simpler, more understated alternative to the Submariners and Daytonas that often dominate the headlines. But like any model in Rolex's carefully curated collection, the question of its future perpetually lingers: Will Rolex discontinue Air-King?

This article delves into the history of the Air-King, examines its current status, explores the factors that might influence Rolex's decision, and attempts to answer the burning question of whether this iconic pilot's watch will continue to grace our wrists.

Rolex Air-King History: From Aviation Roots to Modern Marvel

The Air-King's story began in the tumultuous years of World War II. Hans Wilsdorf, the visionary founder of Rolex, recognized the burgeoning importance of aviation and its impact on society. Pilots, navigating with rudimentary instruments, relied on accurate and reliable timekeeping. In response, Rolex created a series of "Air" watches, including the Air-Lion, Air-Giant, and Air-Tiger, designed for their robustness and legibility.

However, it was the Air-King, launched in 1945, that would endure. The reference 4925, and subsequently the 6552, established the Air-King's core DNA: a simple, time-only display, a robust Oyster case, and a focus on legibility. These early models were characterized by their clean dials, often featuring baton markers and a straightforward design ethos.

The Air-King evolved through various references over the decades. The reference 5500, introduced in 1957, became a mainstay for over 30 years. Its successor, the reference 14000, brought sapphire crystal and a higher-beat movement to the Air-King lineage. The reference 14000M introduced the caliber 3130, further enhancing its reliability and precision.

Rolex Air-King Collection: A Timeline of Evolution

Here's a brief overview of some key Air-King references:

* Reference 4925 (1945): The original Air-King, laying the foundation for the model's design principles.

* Reference 6552 (1953): A transitional model that solidified the Air-King's identity.

* Reference 5500 (1957-1989): A long-lived reference that became synonymous with the Air-King. Known for its simplicity and robustness.

* Reference 14000 (1989-2000): Introduced sapphire crystal and a higher-beat movement.

* Reference 14000M (2000-2007): Featured the caliber 3130, further improving reliability.

* Reference 114200 (2007-2014): Offered various dial options and a slightly more refined aesthetic.

* Reference 116900 (2016-Present): A radical departure from previous models, featuring a 40mm case, the anti-magnetic shield from the Milgauss, and a distinctive dial design.

The Air-King 116900: A Bold Reinvention

The most recent iteration of the Air-King, the reference 116900, launched in 2016, represents a significant departure from its predecessors. This model boasts a larger 40mm case, borrowing the anti-magnetic shield from the Rolex Milgauss, a watch designed for scientists working in environments with strong magnetic fields.

The dial is perhaps the most striking feature of the 116900. It combines a black dial with a green Rolex logo and a yellow "Rolex" inscription. The minute markers are prominent, and the 3, 6, and 9 hour markers are filled with luminescent material. The second hand is also finished in green, adding another pop of color. This unique combination of design elements has been both praised and criticized, making the 116900 a polarizing watch within the Rolex community.

Excluding a short interruption in 2014, the Air-King has been continuously…will rolex discontinue air king

…part of the Rolex lineup. This fact is crucial when considering its potential discontinuation. The "short interruption in 2014" refers to the period when the reference 114200 was discontinued, and the 116900 had not yet been released. This brief hiatus highlights that Rolex is willing to temporarily remove the Air-King from its catalog, suggesting that its continued existence is not guaranteed.

Rolex Air-King 116900 Price: Market Dynamics and Value Retention