1991 Rolex Air-King Ref. 14000 Full Set

Originally introduced in 1945, the Rolex Air King is one of Rolex' oldest models still in production today. Its 34mm case size was considered large at the time, hence the “King” moniker. Rolex released the Air King reference 14000 in 1989, along with its sibling the 14010, as an update to its prior model, the reference 5500. It featured a new caliber 3000 movement and a sapphire crystal, providing a much-needed hardware upgrade from the previous reference.

 

Furthermore, with the 14000, Rolex discontinued all the two-tone, gold, date, and larger Air-King variations and returned to the fundamentals. The Air-King reference 14000 and 14010 both came fitted with stainless steel 34mm Oyster cases, time-only dials, and steel Oyster bracelets. The only difference between these two references is that the 14000 has a smooth steel bezel while the 14010 has an engined-turned steel bezel.

This time-only Air King 14000 from 1991 is in overall great condition.

 

The case is strong with just some light nicks and scratches. It remains unpolished.

 

The dial is the main attraction here as it features a blue soleil finish. Depending on the angle of the lighting, the original blue color is lighter or darker. Apart from the amazing color tone, the dial is clean overall with no blemishes. The lume plots on the dial are full and along with the hands, it has developed patina too.

 

The three link Oyster bracelet continues to prove that it is one of the most comfortable bracelets ever. It is fitted with solid links and has little to no stretch. The bracelet is marked "78350" and the end-links are marked "557B".

 

The watch is running great and keeping time as it has been serviced several times in the past.

 

It comes as a full set, presenting outer box, inner box, stamped guarantee papers showing it was sold in 1996, calendar, wallet, hang tag, and various services guarantee papers.