I should add, being a complete rookie, I'd appreciate any tips on what to look out for!
I found a rather expensive NOS, boxed and papers from '87, for example. Are there any foreseeable issues?
Thanks all!
Hi all, I found this forum after spending way too many hours researching the watch I want and finding loads of great information coming up again and again in the search results.
I'm new to the watch world (unless you count the Apple Watch and the Mickey Mouse one I had as a kid ), but always admired the simple, vintage Omegas and Rolex from afar hoping to one day get myself one.
Well I figured I might as well do it now. I originally thought I wanted a new Air-King until I looked at it so much it started to look a bit sporty and busy for my liking, and what I really liked was the Air-King writing.
So now I've decided to go for a silver Air-King 5500 (the plexiglass looks great!). Unfortunately most I've found so far are from sellers (on Chrono24) with less than perfect reputation or not in a good enough condition.
Can't wait to get it!
I should add, being a complete rookie, I'd appreciate any tips on what to look out for!
I found a rather expensive NOS, boxed and papers from '87, for example. Are there any foreseeable issues?
Thanks all!
Have you checked out watchfinder?
Good luck with the hunt!
Explorer 1 is also an alternative !
Welcome.
The best advice is always buy the seller. If you hang around here for a while you’ll get a sense of the sellers that tend to be well-regarded.
Ultimately there’s no substitute for holding a few different 5500s in your hands before committing.
If cosmetic condition is important to you, it might be worth looking at a 14000 or 14010. You don’t get plexy of course. But mint condition 5500s are thin on the ground.
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Miltons have a nice looking Air King Date 5700 model on their website - you’ll not go wrong dealing with them
Rolex AD Lunn’s have one currently; not cheap but full service and they can overnight it.
https://www.lunns.com/pre~owned-watc...lex/0870500875
Thanks! Unfortunately the dial isn't quite right for me, I'm after stick markers (this dial: https://www.chrono24.co.uk/rolex/550...-id9816602.htm)
I really appreciate all of this help!
i love those old 5500s, such a pure simple classic. i wore one all through university, never took it off and thought it was all the watch i'd ever need until i discovered this place!
wasn't sure about the newer air king at first but i've come to really appreciate the vintage aircraft dial look.
It's worth the wait!
I’ve had an Air King Date from new (1986) I wouldn’t part with it for the world!
Quite rare and only sold in UK and Canada I believe (?)
A good keeper if you can grow to love it!
I had an 86 and foolishly sold it to fund an Explorer 1. In hindsight, I prefer the Air King and should never have sold it. I never found it small, but I'm not a fashion victim.
Here's mine
i think the size thing is a matter of perception, it looks fine on this 6 ft well built chap
Apart from the price, can anyone see any potential issue with this mint condition 5500? https://www.chrono24.co.uk/rolex/air...-id9705225.htm
Another one I'm looking at which appears to be from a reputable seller in Germany is this: https://www.chrono24.co.uk/rolex/air...-id9081206.htm
I appreciate any feedback/insights!
I second that! Explorer 1 is a perfect first Rolex!
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