The Rolex Air-King 116900, a model now discontinued, holds a unique position in the Rolex lineup. While not as flashy or immediately recognizable as some of its siblings, like the Submariner or Daytona, the 116900 offers a compelling blend of history, practicality, and understated elegance. Its discontinuation has only served to amplify its desirability among collectors and enthusiasts, driving up its value in the pre-owned market. This article will delve into the various aspects of this watch, exploring its history, design, performance, price, and its current position in the secondary market.
Rolex Air-King 116900 Discontinued: The End of an Era
The announcement of the Rolex Air-King 116900's discontinuation marked the end of an era for this particular iteration of the model. While the Air-King name continues with the newer reference number (the 126900), the 116900 holds a special place in the hearts of many due to its distinct design and specifications. Its discontinuation isn't entirely surprising, as Rolex regularly updates and retires models to maintain a dynamic and evolving product line. However, this retirement has created a surge of interest in the pre-owned market, making the 116900 a sought-after piece for those who appreciate its unique aesthetic and robust functionality. The discontinuation has solidified its status as a collector's item, ensuring that its legacy will live on beyond its production run.
Rolex Air-King 116900 Review: A Timeless Design
The Rolex Air-King 116900 boasts a 40mm Oyster case, a size considered versatile and suitable for a wide range of wrist sizes. Its robust construction, typical of Rolex, ensures durability and water resistance to 100 meters. The watch's dial is where its unique character truly shines. The 116900 featured a distinct, slightly cluttered dial design, a departure from the minimalist approach often seen in other Rolex models. This dial, often described as "busy" or "tool-watch inspired," incorporates large, legible numerals at 3, 6, and 9 o'clock, alongside smaller markers for the remaining hours. This design, while unconventional for a Rolex, contributed to the watch's distinctive personality and strong legibility.
The hands are also noteworthy, with the characteristic Rolex design, ensuring excellent readability even in low-light conditions. The use of a black dial with luminous markers further enhances readability and practicality. The 3, 6, and 9 markers were enlarged, creating a visually striking contrast against the smaller hour markers. This design choice, though unconventional, contributed significantly to the watch’s unique character and helped distinguish it from other Rolex models.
The watch is powered by the Caliber 3131, a self-winding mechanical movement known for its reliability and accuracy. This movement is a testament to Rolex's commitment to precision and quality. The movement's robustness and dependability are hallmarks of the brand, providing peace of mind to the wearer. The power reserve is ample, ensuring the watch functions reliably without frequent winding.
The Oyster bracelet, a staple of Rolex design, provides a comfortable and secure fit. The bracelet's robust construction reflects the overall durability of the watch. Its ease of adjustment and the secure clasp contribute to the wearer's comfort and confidence. The bracelet's design is both functional and elegant, complementing the overall aesthetic of the watch.
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