First post/Rolex! 1999-2000 Rolex Air-King 14000... general questions about watch?

[lazypolarbears]

Hi y'all!

I've been collecting TAG Heuers, Omegas, Baume & Merciers, etc., for a long time but recently I traded (a TAG chrono + an Omega Seamaster) up for my first Rolex AirKing 14000... late "A" serial dates it to late 1999 or early 2000.

Can someone tell me more about the history behind the AirKing line in general? I know it's been around for a while (and is on the lower side of the Rolex line) but while I know a ton about TAG's, I know close to little about Rolexes.

I know the 5500 Airking had acrylic crystal and scratched easily... starting with the 14000 Airking, it has sapphire, correct? What's the difference between the 2014 Airking and the 14000M and the 14000? They look almost identical..

Obviously I need to get this thing checked out for authenticity, any tips on how to do so? It even still has the holographic "Rolex 14000" sticker on the caseback, and is in pretty good condition...


Any comments in general would be greatly appreciated! Thanks!