Rolex’s Air-King ref. 5500 was produced for over three decades, and remains a cornerstone of vintage Rolex collecting.

This example manufactured in 1979 features the sought-after matte black dial with applied batons and “Precision” script at 6 o’clock, its tritium lume plots ageing to a warm cream. The 34mm Oyster case is paired with its correct 78350 Oyster bracelet, and the smooth bezel keeps the lines clean and understated.

Inside beats the automatic calibre 1520, the workhorse movement that powered Rolex’s entry-level professional watches through the 1960s and ’70s.

Honest, versatile, and instantly recognisable, the Air-King 5500 is the definition of an accessible vintage Rolex classic.