Rolex Oyster Perpetual Air-King Silver Explorer dial ref 5500

The Rolex Air-King holds a unique place in the brand’s legacy. First introduced in 1945 as a tribute to British fighter pilots of World War II, it wasn’t designed as a classic pilot’s watch, but rather as an homage to aviation. Despite its unconventional role in the pilot’s watch category, the Air-King has carved out a distinctive identity within the Rolex lineup. It’s also one of the brand’s longest-running models, predating icons like the Submariner, GMT-Master, Explorer, and Day-Date. Interestingly, it launched the same year as the equally legendary Datejust.

 

At hand, we have a particularly interesting version featuring a matte silver dial with the iconic “Explorer” layout — applied 3, 6, and 9 numerals paired with bold arrowhead indexes. Elegant dauphine hands complement the dial, while a lovely yellow patina graces the hour plots, adding vintage charm.

 

This super-elegant 34mm dress watch is fitted with our Bulang and sons straight-end-link bracelet in Oyster style — a combination we think works beautifully.

 

This fine Air-King has been fully checked and regulated by our watchmaker.

 

We love this specific configuration — it’s almost like the “Calatrava” of Rolex! Let’s touch base about this marvel.

 

Specifications:

 

• Rolex Reference Oyster Perpetual Air-King reference 5500

• 34 mm steel case

• Smooth steel bezel

• Serial 357xxxx dating to 1974

• Explorer lay out silver dial, with arrow shaped hour markers

• Straight endlinks bracelet in steel

• Fully checked by our watchmaker

• One-year mechanical warranty

• Free worldwide Fedex Priority shipping