News: Rolex Air-King
Fresh for a modern generation of watch lovers, an updated re-edition of the Air-King has been unveiled by Rolex for Baselworld 2016. Bigger and bolder than its previous incarnation, this new model is a contemporary take on a classic.
The Air-King was originally Rolex’s tribute to the world of aviation; released in 1945, it was a watch made for the pilots who had fought for the skies during WWII. At 34mm in diameter, the Air-King had a vintage appeal—but the new version has been given a larger, more modern case size of 40mm, in-line with present day tastes. The case is water resistant to 100m, and also offers a shield against magnetic fields.
In contrast to the subtler sophistication of the previous Air-King design, the 2016 model features a distinctive black dial, with large and legible hour and minute markers. Unique green highlights have been picked out on the second hand and Rolex lettering at 12 o’clock, and the watch is available on the classic and ever-popular Oyster bracelet in 904L steel.
The movement is the in-house, self-winding calibre 3131, which is precise to -2/+2 seconds a day and certified as a Superlative Chronometer. The Air-King 2016 has a power reserve of 48 hours.
