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Air-King · 2022 to present
“Air-King”
Grade C · 68/100Today's call: Bargain hunt
C: wear it, don't flip it. Ranked #95 of 129 references in The Crown Index vault.
| Original retail (2026) | $7,950 |
|---|---|
| Market today | $7,900 – $8,600 |
| Vs original retail | +4% |
| 1-year trend | 0% |
The aviation dial with 3-6-9 hours and a minute track, divisive styling and all.
Trades near retail. Divisive models sometimes become cult classics after discontinuation; this one is waiting for its moment.
The Air-King name dates to 1945, honoring RAF pilots who wore Oysters in the Battle of Britain. The current dial, with its 3-6-9 hours and minute numerals everywhere else, is borrowed from a dashboard instrument Rolex built for the Bloodhound land-speed-record car.
The 2022 update added crown guards and a straight-sided case, quietly making it a proper sports watch. It remains the cheapest way into a steel professional Rolex, which eventually gets noticed, it always does.
Our verdict: Neutral. A wearable entry Rolex with limited upside until the catalog moves on.
| Sizes | 40mm |
|---|---|
| Case & bracelet material | Oystersteel (stainless) |
| Factory bracelet | Oyster |
| Factory bezels | Smooth steel |
| Notable dials | Black, green and yellow accents |
| Caliber | 3230 |
| Production | 2022 to present |
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