Far scarcer than the steel 5500 reference, this gold plated Air King was for UK, US and Commonwealth markets only. Model reference 5516
HOW DO WE DATE THIS WATCH?
From the serial number between the lugs we can accurately date this watch to being made in 1960. This model, along with the similar 5506, was first introduced in 1958.
CONDITION
The difference between the wording PRECISION and, like on this watch, SUPER PRECISION, is the movement. The Super Precision watches have the calibre 1530, which has a higher jewel count (25) than the calibre 1520 found in the standard precision watches. More jewels does not mean more accurate, but it is better for longevity. The case on this watch is gold plated, but with this being Rolex it is not the standard 10 or 20 microns, but 40 microns. That helps explain why this still looks so good, with only showing on the lug tips and this looks worse under studio lights than in the real world. You also have the screwed down twinlock crown, which shows a little more wear but that is to be expected as the crown is a high wear part. The acrylic crystal appears to be the original, with smooth loping lines to match the case. There is some minor distortion to the bottom of the crystal at some angles. The dial and hands are very good for the age, and they are original. The leather strap is new, and could be swapped for a different colour if preferred.
This watch will be supplied with our branded presentation box and our Certificate of Authenticity.
Please see the HD video for more detail. All photos and videos are part of the description and are of the actual watch unless mentioned. We do not photoshop any pictures, and the images are copyright of birthyearwatches.com and should not be used without permission.
SIZE
Width with crown 36.9 mm
Width without crown 34.2 mm
Between lugs 20 mm
Lug to lug length 42.7 mm
Case Thickness 11.6 mm
All sizes are approximate.
Included with this watch is a 3 month guarantee and free delivery to UK addresses. If you live outside the UK we can still deliver to most countries. Please see our Worldwide Shipping information, or Contact Us. Payment can be made by most credit or debit cards, bank transfer or PayPal.
From 1st September 2021 we will be planting a tree for every watch we sell, working with the International Tree Foundation (Est 1922) to make this business positive on carbon. By buying anything pre owned you are effectively reusing what already exists, but this takes it further and makes us feel good.
