Important Watches, Collector's Wristw...

Geneva, Jun 15, 2003

LOT 475

Rolex Oyster Perpetual, "Air King" Précision, Ref. 5500. Produced in the 1960's. Fine, center-seconds, self-winding, water-resistant, tonneau shaped, stainless steel gentleman's wristwatch with stainless steel Oyster bracelet.

CHF 1,000 - 1,500

C. three body, bicolored, polished, screwed-down case back and crown. D. black with applied yellow gold baton indexes. "Alpha" yellow gold hands. M. Cal. 1570, rhodium-plated, 26 jewels, straight line lever escapement, monometallic balance adjusted to temperatures and 5 positions, shock-absorber, self-compensating flat balance-spring.Dial, case and movement signed. Diam. 34 mm.Approx. overhall length 190 mm.


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Grading System
Grade: A

Good
Case: 4 - 25
Movement: 4*

Fair

Overhaul recommended, at buyer's expense

Notes

The "Air King" model (Ref. 5500) was made in stainless steel only and was produced from the end of the 1950's to 1990. It has always been the less expensive model amongst the Oyster Perpetual watches. Many important companies have ordered, directly from Rolex, several "Air-King" watches personalized with their logos.Similar watches are published in " Rolex, Collecting Wristwatches", by Osvaldo Patrizzi, Guido Mondani Editore, Genova 2001, pp. 354 to 359 - 378.