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MJ EXPLORER · 31 March 2022, 10:43 AM

I've always loved the 116900 Air-King. I owned it for a while, but the lack of lume bothered me (same with my Wimbledon dial Date-Just). Not a huge deal, but I was also a tad too thick.

I was shocked when I woke up this morning to see the new watches only to find that not only was the Air-King not discontinued, but improved upon! They basically took a watch I really liked and made it one I absolutely love.

Lumed 3,6,9, and triangle at 12 - check
Slimmer case - check
Crown guards - very cool - check
5 to 05 - slight improvement - check
AR coating - nice improvement - check
New movement with longer power reserve - very nice - check
New clasp - very nice - check

I called my local AD and they said the first one that comes in is mine. They've always come through for me. I know it's not for everyone, but I for one am really excited to get this one!

Cheers

Jackie Daytona · 31 March 2022, 10:55 AM

I quite like the update as well. I’ve always liked the Air King, but like it more now that it has its own unique profile. The dial still may be just a little busy for me with so many 5s, but overall I really like it, and then again it may loose a bit of that funky uniqueness if they lost it.

MJ EXPLORER · 31 March 2022, 11:04 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Dontknow

I quite like the update as well. I’ve always liked the Air King, but like it more now that it has its own unique profile. The dial still may be just a little busy for me with so many 5s, but overall I really like it, and then again it may loose a bit of that funky uniqueness if they lost it.

I found the 116900 loud and crazy in blown up pictures. It was so much better on the wrist though. And really, Rolex doesn't get credit for having created a watch with hour markers at the cardinal positions and minutes everywhere else that make reading the time a snap.

MikeMWatchFan · 31 March 2022, 11:05 AM

I feel the same way! I need one of these!

IR201 · 31 March 2022, 10:58 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by MJ EXPLORER

I've always loved the 116900 Air-King. I owned it for a while, but the lack of lume bothered me (same with my Wimbledon dial Date-Just). Not a huge deal, but I was also a tad too thick.

I was shocked when I woke up this morning to see the new watches only to find that not only was the Air-King not discontinued, but improved upon! They basically took a watch I really liked and made it one I absolutely love.

Lumed 3,6,9, and triangle at 12 - check
Slimmer case - check
Crown guards - very cool - check
5 to 05 - slight improvement - check
AR coating - nice improvement - check
New movement with longer power reserve - very nice - check
New clasp - very nice - check

I called my local AD and they said the first one that comes in is mine. They've always come through for me. I know it's not for everyone, but I for one am really excited to get this one!

Cheers

Where is the proof of the slimmer case? Been trying to find!

MJ EXPLORER · 31 March 2022, 11:02 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by IR201

Where is the proof of the slimmer case? Been trying to find!

No proof yet! It just appears noticeably slimmer. If you find the number, please share.

IR201 · 1 April 2022, 03:06 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by MJ EXPLORER

No proof yet! It just appears noticeably slimmer. If you find the number, please share.

11.59!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mYLzCsctulo

HK_Expat · 1 April 2022, 05:11 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by MJ EXPLORER

No proof yet! It just appears noticeably slimmer. If you find the number, please share.

YouTube video

11b1p · 1 April 2022, 06:09 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Xyza0722

YouTube video

From the side that’s a whole new watch.

Bxtek · 31 March 2022, 11:02 AM

I've always liked the newer Air King ever since it came out. Such a unique dial which looks like no other model of Rolex! I totally agree with you OP on all of the things on your list. Every single item is an improvement. I'm especially loving how the crown guards really changes the look of the whole watch. Home run imo!

MJ EXPLORER · 31 March 2022, 12:30 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Bxtek

I've always liked the newer Air King ever since it came out. Such a unique dial which looks like no other model of Rolex! I totally agree with you OP on all of the things on your list. Every single item is an improvement. I'm especially loving how the crown guards really changes the look of the whole watch. Home run imo!

An interesting trend that Rolex doesn't feel obligated to scrap watches that are due for an upgrade. They seem to making smart tweaks with many models and making them better. The Explorer and Explorer II last year were really nice improvements. The Submariner has had some nice subtle improvements lately. Well done Rolex!

MJ EXPLORER · 31 March 2022, 11:13 AM

The more I think about it and watch videos....the crown guards are a huge change. They really change the appearance of this watch. I suspect this watch will be very unpopular for 6 months, then it will gain momentum. It's never going to be Sub, GMT, Daytona hot, but it will gain in popularity over time.

MasonDixon · 31 March 2022, 11:16 AM

It's growing on me. I'd still prefer it with 15,30,45 and all lumed numerals, but it's a definite improvement over the old model. I see it as kind of a stand-in for the discontinued 39mm Explorer.

MJ EXPLORER · 31 March 2022, 11:27 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by MasonDixon

It's growing on me. I'd still prefer it with 15,30,45 and all lumed numerals, but it's a definite improvement over the old model. I see it as kind of a stand-in for the discontinued 39mm Explorer.

I agree with your assessment of the stand-in for the discontinued 39mm Explorer. Lume all around would be so cool! Maybe we'll get that on the 136900 in a few years.

Chewbacca · 31 March 2022, 11:39 AM

It is an improvement and I’m happy you love it and will have one in short order.

But I’m also thinking a green Exp dial in that case would have been a perfect Rolex.

MJ EXPLORER · 31 March 2022, 11:44 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Chewbacca

It is an improvement and I’m happy you love it and will have one in short order.

But I’m also thinking a green Exp dial in that case would have been a perfect Rolex.

Thanks CJ! A green Explorer...now that would be cool. Also, you have the best/funniest avatar/profile/quotes on TRF. "Kashyyyk" makes me laugh every time.

Chewbacca · 31 March 2022, 12:39 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by MJ EXPLORER

Thanks CJ! A green Explorer...now that would be cool. Also, you have the best/funniest avatar/profile/quotes on TRF. "Kashyyyk" makes me laugh every time.

Thank you.

I’m happy you get a kick out of my nonsense. You yourself bring a level of non-gaudy sophistication which is a great contribution here, and your enjoyment and watch preferences are clearly evident through the screen.

underpar · 31 March 2022, 11:51 AM

I don't get it.

burnthesehills · 31 March 2022, 12:06 PM

I like it a lot as well. Not a popular watch around here, but I have always loved the look. The updates are appreciated.

JimSnyder · 31 March 2022, 12:25 PM

Have always loved the new Air King. But I am not sold on the crown guards, really like the other upgrades .......

jlovda · 31 March 2022, 12:28 PM

Don't forget....no more yellow.

Also, The AK was previously a Milgauss with a different dial. Now that it has a new case with crown guards Rolex may have gotten rid of the Faraday cage so the watch would be slimmer.

28mm · 31 March 2022, 03:37 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by jlovda

Don't forget....no more yellow.

Still there.

jlovda · 31 March 2022, 10:21 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 28mm

Still there.

Oops. Looked white in the picture I saw.

BNA/LION · 31 March 2022, 12:51 PM

Good Luck!

This thread needs a picture!

MikeMWatchFan · 31 March 2022, 12:57 PM

Can we get a side by side? Any hands on videos out yet?

Mifune · 31 March 2022, 12:58 PM

Love it... want it.

NachoNeal · 31 March 2022, 01:14 PM

Agreed that the 05 is a big improvement.

GJ-PGMTII · 31 March 2022, 01:18 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by MJ EXPLORER

AR coating - nice improvement - check

Cheers

Wait it has AR…? Rolex 1990 called they want their tech back

Fwiw no mention of AR on watch page: https://www.rolex.com/en-us/watches/...6900-0001.html

Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

MJ EXPLORER · 31 March 2022, 04:00 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by GJ-PGMTII

Wait it has AR…? Rolex 1990 called they want their tech back

Fwiw no mention of AR on watch page: https://www.rolex.com/en-us/watches/...6900-0001.html

Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

Very true! A little late to the AR game for sure.

They actually do mention it on the Rolex web site though...

"The hands, the triangular hour marker at 12 o’clock, as well as the 3, 6 and 9 numerals contain an optimized luminescent material. The legibility of the display is further enhanced by a crystal with an anti-reflective coating."

drrd · 31 March 2022, 04:28 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by GJ-PGMTII

Wait it has AR…? Rolex 1990 called they want their tech back

Fwiw no mention of AR on watch page: https://www.rolex.com/en-us/watches/...6900-0001.html

Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

I missed this detail with the YM 42 YG too.

You have to look at the full page feature for each new model. The mention of AR is in there.

31 March 2022, 10:43 AM	#1
MJ EXPLORER "TRF" Member Join Date: Jul 2021 Real Name: Mike Location: Arkansas Watch: Explorer 40 Posts: 1,036	LOVING the new Air-King!!! I've always loved the 116900 Air-King. I owned it for a while, but the lack of lume bothered me (same with my Wimbledon dial Date-Just). Not a huge deal, but I was also a tad too thick. I was shocked when I woke up this morning to see the new watches only to find that not only was the Air-King not discontinued, but improved upon! They basically took a watch I really liked and made it one I absolutely love. Lumed 3,6,9, and triangle at 12 - check Slimmer case - check Crown guards - very cool - check 5 to 05 - slight improvement - check AR coating - nice improvement - check New movement with longer power reserve - very nice - check New clasp - very nice - check I called my local AD and they said the first one that comes in is mine. They've always come through for me. I know it's not for everyone, but I for one am really excited to get this one! Cheers

31 March 2022, 10:55 AM	#2
Jackie Daytona "TRF" Member Join Date: Oct 2019 Real Name: Brian Location: Nashville Watch: 16750 Posts: 6,778	I quite like the update as well. I’ve always liked the Air King, but like it more now that it has its own unique profile. The dial still may be just a little busy for me with so many 5s, but overall I really like it, and then again it may loose a bit of that funky uniqueness if they lost it. __________________ 16750 \| 6516(wife’s) \| 126334 \| 16570 \| SBGA413 \| SRPE33 \| 126610LV

31 March 2022, 12:25 PM	#20
JimSnyder "TRF" Member Join Date: Feb 2007 Real Name: Jim Snyder Location: Ohio Watch: Ask me later..... Posts: 7,729	Have always loved the new Air King. But I am not sold on the crown guards, really like the other upgrades ....... __________________ "You ain't lived, 'til you've had your tires rotated by a red-headed women."

31 March 2022, 12:51 PM	#24
BNA/LION 2025 Pledge Member Join Date: May 2011 Real Name: Larry Location: San Diego, CA Watch: ROLEX Posts: 25,865	Good Luck! This thread needs a picture! __________________ ✦ 28238 President DD 18K/YG ✦ 16610LN SS Sub ✦ 16613 18K/SS Serti ✦ 16550 Exp II Non-Rail Cream Dial ✦ DaytonaC 116500 ✦ 126710 BLRO GMT-Master II ✦ M226627 42mm Titanium Yacht-Master ✦ NEXT-->? ⛳ Hole In One! 10/3/19 DMCC 5th hole, par 3, 168 yards w/ 4-Iron.

31 March 2022, 01:14 PM	#27
NachoNeal "TRF" Member Join Date: Oct 2019 Real Name: Neal Location: Point Loma Watch: ing the river flow Posts: 2,862	Agreed that the 05 is a big improvement. __________________ . Sub No Date (14060); Tudor Ranger; Explorer (124270); Day Date (18238) stolen by wife; CasiOak.

31 March 2022, 11:05 AM	#4
MikeMWatchFan "TRF" Member Join Date: Jan 2021 Location: USA Posts: 375	I feel the same way! I need one of these!

31 March 2022, 11:02 AM	#10
Bxtek "TRF" Member Join Date: May 2018 Location: CA Posts: 2,887	I've always liked the newer Air King ever since it came out. Such a unique dial which looks like no other model of Rolex! I totally agree with you OP on all of the things on your list. Every single item is an improvement. I'm especially loving how the crown guards really changes the look of the whole watch. Home run imo!

31 March 2022, 11:13 AM	#12
MJ EXPLORER "TRF" Member Join Date: Jul 2021 Real Name: Mike Location: Arkansas Watch: Explorer 40 Posts: 1,036	The more I think about it and watch videos....the crown guards are a huge change. They really change the appearance of this watch. I suspect this watch will be very unpopular for 6 months, then it will gain momentum. It's never going to be Sub, GMT, Daytona hot, but it will gain in popularity over time.

31 March 2022, 11:16 AM	#13
MasonDixon "TRF" Member Join Date: Nov 2019 Location: USA Posts: 278	It's growing on me. I'd still prefer it with 15,30,45 and all lumed numerals, but it's a definite improvement over the old model. I see it as kind of a stand-in for the discontinued 39mm Explorer.

31 March 2022, 11:39 AM	#15
Chewbacca Banned Join Date: May 2012 Real Name: CJ Location: Kashyyyk Watch: Kessel Run Chrono Posts: 21,110	It is an improvement and I’m happy you love it and will have one in short order. But I’m also thinking a green Exp dial in that case would have been a perfect Rolex.

31 March 2022, 11:51 AM	#18
underpar Banned Join Date: Jan 2022 Location: Concord,NC Posts: 304	I don't get it.

31 March 2022, 12:06 PM	#19
burnthesehills 2025 Pledge Member Join Date: Jan 2019 Real Name: Joe Location: Western MA Posts: 1,229	I like it a lot as well. Not a popular watch around here, but I have always loved the look. The updates are appreciated.

31 March 2022, 12:28 PM	#21
jlovda "TRF" Member Join Date: May 2009 Real Name: John Location: Midwest Watch: 5513,1675,216570 Posts: 1,507	Don't forget....no more yellow. Also, The AK was previously a Milgauss with a different dial. Now that it has a new case with crown guards Rolex may have gotten rid of the Faraday cage so the watch would be slimmer.

31 March 2022, 12:57 PM	#25
MikeMWatchFan "TRF" Member Join Date: Jan 2021 Location: USA Posts: 375	Can we get a side by side? Any hands on videos out yet?

31 March 2022, 12:58 PM	#26
Mifune Banned Join Date: Apr 2020 Location: here AND there... Posts: 2,240	Love it... want it.

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