Rolex Oyster Perpetual Air-King 126900

Back during Baselworld 2016, a partnership between Rolex and the record-breaking Bloodhound car, resulted in an unusual new timepiece known as the “Rolex Oyster Perpetual Air-King”. Now with a few years gone by, they’ve brought it back with some notable modifications, for the Watches & Wonders 2022 event.The 40mm case is made of Oystersteel with a satin finished surface and polished sides, while mounted to the case is a polished steel bezel. At first glance it might seem very similar to its previous release, but the proportions of the lugs and middle case have been slimmed down a bit.On the flip-side we encounter a solid screw-on caseback with the typical fluted profile, found on many Rolex collections. But, the most noticeable change appears in the form of an integral crown guard, which protects the screw-in crown and provides the watch with a more robust look.Despite seeming like a minor alteration, it manages to add a significant layer of heft. All topped by a sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating. Water-resistance on this watch can reach up to 100 meters (330 feet). Time is exhibited on a black lacquered dial with the Arabic numerals 3, 6, 9 and a triangular hour marker at 12 o'clock in white gold, while a ring of minute markers and other double-digit numerals (that represent the fifths) appear in a white transferred print.An extra touch of color appears on the upper-half of the dial for the yellow Rolex crown and the word “Rolex” in a green font. While on the lower-half we get a glimpse of the iconic “Air-King” lettering with its original 1950’s font type.The classic central Mercedes hands in 18k white gold, as well as the main one-digit Arabic numerals have all been filled with Chromalight, for an enhanced legibility. The central lollipop hand appears in green, which syncs up nicely with Rolex lettering. 

Rolex Oyster Perpetual Air-King

The “Rolex Oyster Perpetual Air-King” (Ref#: 126900) is powered by the in-house self-winding mechanical movement, caliber 3230, with 31 jewels and 28,800 vph. It comes equipped with a Chronergy escapement patented by Rolex, a magnetic nickel-phosphorus pallet fork and escape wheel. Power reserve on this timepiece can last up to 70 hours.Mounted on the watch is a three-link Oystersteel bracelet, secured by an Oysterlock folding safety, which features the Rolex-patented Easylink rapid extension system. This allows the bracelet length to be easily increased by approximately 5mm, for additional comfort. For more up to date information visit the official Rolex website here.

Rolex, Air-King, Oyster Perpetual, Watches & Wonders, Luxury Watches