162 Rolex Fine and Rare Air-King Date Automatic Wristwatch in Steel, Reference 5700, With Black Dial Signed “Explorer Date”

Estimate: € 5,000 –⁠ 10,000

Sold € 6,500

Model: Air-King Date
Reference: 5700
Case Material: Stainless Steel
Bracelet Material: Stainless Steel
Year: 1973
Movement: Automatic
Caliber: 1535
Case N°: 3328994
Dimensions: 34 mm
Signed: Dial, movement and case

For many year, the Air-King reference 5500 represented the entry-level, time-only watch for Rolex, especially created in honour of RAF pilots after World War II. Produced by Rolex in the 40’s, is part of an obscure group of “Air” watches that comprehended the Air-Lion, Air-Tiger, and Air-Giant. Based on its popularity, Rolex later added the Air-King-Date in 1958 with the reference 5700, such as the lot here offered. This very model was produced in a way smaller quantity than the non-date 5500 usually presenting the inscription “Air King- Date” on the dial. The here offered model is a way more precious version with a particularly rare black dial with applied baton indexes and signature “Explorer Date”at 12 o’clock. With a 34 mm stainless steel case preserved in a good conditions and an Oyster bracelet of the same material, this very watch is undoubtedly a piece of collection for any collector and passionate in history. Understated in both appearance and size, the 5700 offers a practical, versatile alternative to Rolex’s other highly-purposeful wristwatches.