A characterful 1978 Rolex Air-King reference 5500, featuring a rare factory purple dial that has developed a beautiful natural patina over time. Housed in the classic 34mm Oystersteel case and powered by Rolex’s dependable calibre 1520 automatic movement, this watch captures the understated charm of late-1970s Rolex design. Clean, balanced, and highly wearable, the Air-King remains one of the brand’s most enduring vintage models - particularly appealing when paired with an uncommon dial variation such as this.
Professionally serviced and polished by Dobson Fine Jewellery, this example is supplied with a 12-month mechanical warranty.
What’s Included
• Vintage Rolex inner and outer box (paperwork and cushion not present)
• 12 Month Dobson Fine Jewellery mechanical warranty
• Watch Register checked
Specifications
Model: Air-King
Reference: 5500
Year: 1978
Case Width: 34mm (excluding crown)
Case Material: Oystersteel
Dial: Factory purple dial with natural patina
Crystal: Acrylic crystal
Movement: Rolex automatic calibre 1520
Functions: Hours, minutes, seconds
Bracelet: Steel Oyster bracelet
Water Resistance: Not guaranteed (vintage watch - originally rated 100m)
Condition
Excellent overall condition for a vintage 1978 example. Professionally serviced and polished by Dobson Fine Jewellery. The dial shows attractive natural ageing and patination, consistent with its originality. The case and bracelet present well with light signs of age-related wear. A strong vintage Air-King offering rarity, character, and classic Rolex proportions - ready to wear.
A characterful 1978 Rolex Air-King reference 5500, featuring a rare factory purple dial that has developed a beautiful natural patina over time. Housed in the classic 34mm Oystersteel case and powered by Rolex’s dependable calibre 1520 automatic movement, this watch captures the understated charm of late-1970s Rolex design. Clean, balanced, and highly wearable, the Air-King remains one of the brand’s most enduring vintage models - particularly appealing when paired with an uncommon dial variation such as this.
Professionally serviced and polished by Dobson Fine Jewellery, this example is supplied with a 12-month mechanical warranty.
What’s Included
• Vintage Rolex inner and outer box (paperwork and cushion not present)
• 12 Month Dobson Fine Jewellery mechanical warranty
• Watch Register checked
Specifications
Model: Air-King
Reference: 5500
Year: 1978
Case Width: 34mm (excluding crown)
Case Material: Oystersteel
Dial: Factory purple dial with natural patina
Crystal: Acrylic crystal
Movement: Rolex automatic calibre 1520
Functions: Hours, minutes, seconds
Bracelet: Steel Oyster bracelet
Water Resistance: Not guaranteed (vintage watch - originally rated 100m)
Condition
Excellent overall condition for a vintage 1978 example. Professionally serviced and polished by Dobson Fine Jewellery. The dial shows attractive natural ageing and patination, consistent with its originality. The case and bracelet present well with light signs of age-related wear. A strong vintage Air-King offering rarity, character, and classic Rolex proportions - ready to wear.
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Our showroom is located on the A34, conveniently just a few minutes from Junction 16 of the M6 and close to the entrance of the Trentham Estate.
We are open to the public and warmly welcome anyone wishing to browse our collection of fine jewellery and luxury watches in person. Our team is always on hand to offer advice or answer any questions you may have.
If you would like to speak to us before visiting, please feel free to call us on 01782 757 599.
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