EUROWATCH OC buys, sells and trades the Rolex Air-King at our Newport Beach showroom, from the current 126900 back to the 34mm 5500s. It's one of the more accessible ways into a Rolex sports watch, and we keep it in stock with no waitlist. Every Air-King is authenticated in-house. Call 949-994-0114 or browse our Rolex inventory.
The Rolex Air-King: a short history
Rolex introduced the Air-King in 1945 to honor the pilots of the Royal Air Force. For most of its life it was a simple 34mm watch, and the 5500 ran for roughly three decades. In 2016 Rolex reinvented it as the 40mm 116900, with a black dial, a large minute scale for navigation timing and green and yellow accents. The 126900 followed in 2022 with crown guards and the calibre 3230.
Current Air-King reference
| Reference | Size | Movement | Water resistance | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 126900 | 40mm | Calibre 3230 | 100m | Crown guards, Oystersteel only, Oyster bracelet |
Call 949-994-0114 for current pricing.
Discontinued Air-Kings
| Reference | Size | Years | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 116900 | 40mm | 2016 to 2022 | No crown guards, magnetic shield |
| 114200 | 34mm | 2007 to 2014 | Smooth bezel, colored dial options |
| 14000 / 14010 | 34mm | Late 1980s to 2000s | Engine-turned or smooth bezel |
| 5500 | 34mm | 1950s to 1980s | The long-running vintage Air-King |
Buy, sell or trade an Air-King
Buying: every Air-King we sell is inspected, timed and checked for originality at 3388 Via Lido Ave, and you can take it home the same day. Selling: we buy Air-Kings outright with same-day payment, papers or not. See Sell My Rolex. Trading: the most common move is an Air-King toward an Explorer or a GMT-Master II.
Does the Air-King hold its value?
The modern Air-King is one of the stronger value-holders among entry Rolex sports watches, and the 116900 has gained interest since it was replaced. Vintage 5500s in original condition are steady. For dated market ranges across the Rolex catalog, see our Rolex price guide.
Frequently asked questions
126900 vs 116900: what changed?
The 126900 added crown guards, a newer calibre 3230 movement, a slightly revised dial with a 0 before the 5 on the minute scale, and a redesigned case. Both are 40mm.
Is the Air-King a good first Rolex?
Yes. It's a 40mm Oystersteel sports watch with 100m water resistance, and it's easier to buy than most Rolex sports models.
Does the Air-King hold its value?
The modern Air-King holds value well for an entry Rolex sports watch. Check our Rolex price guide or call 949-994-0114 for current figures.
How much is my Air-King worth?
Reference, condition and papers all matter. Call EUROWATCH OC at 949-994-0114 for a same-day offer.
Air-King or Explorer?
The Explorer is simpler and more classic, available in 36mm and 40mm. The Air-King is bolder, with a busier aviation dial. Try both on before deciding.
Visit EUROWATCH OC
EUROWATCH OC, 3388 Via Lido Ave, Newport Beach, CA 92663. Call 949-994-0114 or browse all Rolex watches.