Talk me out of the Air King

[so nice]

Convince you…ok try opening your eyes and looking at it

[173rdabn]

What YOU want, not other folks. Personally, I'm quite fond of the new version with lumed numerals and crown guards.

[Guppydriver]

Originally Posted by 116510lv

The allure of the Air King 126900 is understandable—it’s distinct, versatile, and has a quirky dial design that stands out, especially compared to the classics. That said, here are some reasons why it might not be the best third piece for your collection right now....

1. The Icon Factor

Compared to the Submariner: The no-date Submariner has a status that’s nearly unmatched in the Rolex lineup. With its heritage and versatility, it's a model that can easily complement the Daytona and GMT-Master II in terms of both style and stature. The Air King, on the other hand, doesn’t carry the same universal appeal or iconic status, which might leave it feeling.... a little less special over time.

Future Value Retention: The Submariner (especially a classic no-date version) holds its value exceptionally well, while the Air King, despite improvements, doesn’t have the same track record. If part of your strategy is to hold or appreciate value over time, a Sub would give you a better position there.


2. Design Continuity and Balance

Quirkiness vs. Timelessness: While the Air King’s dial certainly has personality, it’s a bit unconventional compared to the Daytona’s balanced chronograph layout and the GMT’s iconic bezel. In a collection, it might not have the same timeless look that will age as gracefully as the Submariner or a classic gold piece.

Rolex DNA: The Submariner and GMT both represent iconic pillars of Rolex design. The Air King does not carry the same Rolex DNA


3. Understated but Overlooked

Versatility: The Submariner is endlessly versatile, transitioning from casual to formal with ease. While the Air King has a certain appeal, it lacks the universal styling flexibility that the Sub can offer. A watch like the Sub or even an Explorer might wear just as slim while offering more versatility in wardrobe pairing and daily wear.

Risk of Getting Overlooked: The Air King’s eccentricity might feel novel and fun now, but it risks becoming that piece in your collection that doesn't get as much wrist time because it lacks the timeless appeal that makes the Sub so wearable every day.


4. The Unique Factor—Too Unique?

While you’re right that the Air King could be the "unique" piece of the trio, it’s worth considering whether that uniqueness will keep its charm in the long run. The quirky factor can make it an odd piece out rather than a defining statement, especially when compared to the solid and balanced design language of the Daytona and GMT. The novelty could wear off faster, making you question the decision a few years down the line.


5. Gold—A Taste of the Luxe Side

If you’re considering adding something with gold, it could bring a whole new dimension to your collection. A Submariner or GMT with a touch of gold (two-tone or solid) could be that unique and adventurous addition you’re craving while still being versatile and classic. It would also add some variety in materials, balancing the all-steel look of your Daytona and GMT. Rolex’s use of precious metals elevates the feel and experience, bringing a bit more of that “wow” factor every time you put it on.


6. A Potential "One and Done" Model

Air King Limited Appeal: Many collectors get an Air King as a one-off piece—something to enjoy but not necessarily to keep forever. It’s the type of model that could be a novelty within a larger collection, but it might not have that “keeper” status in the way a Submariner or gold-accented piece could.


In short, while the Air King is a cool watch, it could easily end up being the odd man out in a Daytona-GMT trio. Going with a Submariner would bring a level of enduring style, value retention, and continuity that rounds out a collection. Or if you crave a unique twist, a two-tone model could give you that bit of adventure while still aligning with the established icons Rolex is known for.

But if you’re genuinely drawn to it, that passion for the piece should also carry weight! Just be sure it’s a long-term connection, not just the pull of novelty.



Sent from my SM-S918B using Tapatalk

Now this is what I call an answer to a question. Well done.

OP, read these and if you still want the AK….GO FOR IT!

[Daytona king]

Get what you like. But for me I would look at other brands before the air king. Only issue to me is it looks like a bunch of spare parts from other watches. For the same money I would get the explorer 40mm.


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[Gooswyn]

The new Air King 126900 is a yes , beside it has unique dial with green hand and yellow crown Rolex logo, it also has crown guard , lighter weight compare to the classic watch with date and the lock clasp as well.

[Calatrava r]

It's just not for you.

[cascadez71]

Originally Posted by Guppydriver

Now this is what I call an answer to a question. Well done.

OP, read these and if you still want the AK….GO FOR IT!

That reply is probably an AI response, it is literally is formatted and written like a Chatgpt answer.

[JimSnyder]

I really like the Air King but not the newest case with the crown guards

[IFlyPlanes]

The AK is a great piece. Sorry, can't help you :)

[JoseR]

Originally Posted by 173rdabn

What YOU want, not other folks. Personally, I'm quite fond of the new version with lumed numerals and crown guards.

+1.

[Mr. Superlative]

If there is doubt, there’s no doubt.

This is an entirely subjective question. If YOU like it enough to want to buy it, then buy it. Asking strangers on the internet to talk you out of something, will not ultimately change your desire to have something you have your heart set on.


If you are asking fo personal opinions, I would not buy an AK as I think there are far better models in the line up, such as the Exp 1, and DJ range.

[VegasBoy]

Up until the past few months, I thought the Air King looked childish. Or maybe I was just trying to tell myself I didn't want it because my watch buying has gotten out of hand. I think I am in need of a gold day date next. However, I have really been looking at the Air King. I love the quirkiness of it. Plus it is relatively inexpensive.

I will most likely pull the trigger on it soon. JUST GRAB IT!

[rg9390]

If the AirKing is pulling you, then go get it. It's not a hard watch to get, and just get what you want. Even if you got a sub no-date or a PM model, you end up getting the AirKing in a later date as it is relatively inexpensive (amongst the Rolex range) and the wait list should be within months (or even grey's premium is minimal).

I like the AirKing as well, but I got the OP41 in green dial, and I think it serves similar purpose in my collection, so I save the money for other things.

[No SUBctitute]

Since you are seeking opinions.....it looks like a Mickey Mouse watch, and for me it wouldn't age well, even if I like it in the immediate.

For your rotation I like: Sub, OP 41 green or blue dial, or DJ 41 green or blue or white dial.

[msum]

Originally Posted by 116510lv

The allure of the Air King 126900 is understandable—it’s distinct, versatile, and has a quirky dial design that stands out, especially compared to the classics. That said, here are some reasons why it might not be the best third piece for your collection right now....

1. The Icon Factor

Compared to the Submariner: The no-date Submariner has a status that’s nearly unmatched in the Rolex lineup. With its heritage and versatility, it's a model that can easily complement the Daytona and GMT-Master II in terms of both style and stature. The Air King, on the other hand, doesn’t carry the same universal appeal or iconic status, which might leave it feeling.... a little less special over time.

Future Value Retention: The Submariner (especially a classic no-date version) holds its value exceptionally well, while the Air King, despite improvements, doesn’t have the same track record. If part of your strategy is to hold or appreciate value over time, a Sub would give you a better position there.


2. Design Continuity and Balance

Quirkiness vs. Timelessness: While the Air King’s dial certainly has personality, it’s a bit unconventional compared to the Daytona’s balanced chronograph layout and the GMT’s iconic bezel. In a collection, it might not have the same timeless look that will age as gracefully as the Submariner or a classic gold piece.

Rolex DNA: The Submariner and GMT both represent iconic pillars of Rolex design. The Air King does not carry the same Rolex DNA


3. Understated but Overlooked

Versatility: The Submariner is endlessly versatile, transitioning from casual to formal with ease. While the Air King has a certain appeal, it lacks the universal styling flexibility that the Sub can offer. A watch like the Sub or even an Explorer might wear just as slim while offering more versatility in wardrobe pairing and daily wear.

Risk of Getting Overlooked: The Air King’s eccentricity might feel novel and fun now, but it risks becoming that piece in your collection that doesn't get as much wrist time because it lacks the timeless appeal that makes the Sub so wearable every day.


4. The Unique Factor—Too Unique?

While you’re right that the Air King could be the "unique" piece of the trio, it’s worth considering whether that uniqueness will keep its charm in the long run. The quirky factor can make it an odd piece out rather than a defining statement, especially when compared to the solid and balanced design language of the Daytona and GMT. The novelty could wear off faster, making you question the decision a few years down the line.


5. Gold—A Taste of the Luxe Side

If you’re considering adding something with gold, it could bring a whole new dimension to your collection. A Submariner or GMT with a touch of gold (two-tone or solid) could be that unique and adventurous addition you’re craving while still being versatile and classic. It would also add some variety in materials, balancing the all-steel look of your Daytona and GMT. Rolex’s use of precious metals elevates the feel and experience, bringing a bit more of that “wow” factor every time you put it on.


6. A Potential "One and Done" Model

Air King Limited Appeal: Many collectors get an Air King as a one-off piece—something to enjoy but not necessarily to keep forever. It’s the type of model that could be a novelty within a larger collection, but it might not have that “keeper” status in the way a Submariner or gold-accented piece could.


In short, while the Air King is a cool watch, it could easily end up being the odd man out in a Daytona-GMT trio. Going with a Submariner would bring a level of enduring style, value retention, and continuity that rounds out a collection. Or if you crave a unique twist, a two-tone model could give you that bit of adventure while still aligning with the established icons Rolex is known for.

But if you’re genuinely drawn to it, that passion for the piece should also carry weight! Just be sure it’s a long-term connection, not just the pull of novelty.



Sent from my SM-S918B using Tapatalk

Was this indeed AI generated?

Regardless, it seems to put forward some reasonable points.

Nevertheless, it seems fairly obvious that you should buy the AK, since it seems to appeal so strongly. I actually like the updates, but I’m no vintage expert. I certainly don’t think it’s as classic as a Submariner and it doesn’t have Glidelock (good and bad, depending on one’s perspective).

[HogwldFLTR]

I really like the new version. I owned one and traded it towards something else. Not a bad trade but I do miss it and my Milgauss which were both part of the trade.

[Marcjvr]

Originally Posted by No SUBctitute

Since you are seeking opinions.....it looks like a Mickey Mouse watch, and for me it wouldn't age well, even if I like it in the immediate.

For your rotation I like: Sub, OP 41 green or blue dial, or DJ 41 green or blue or white dial.

I’ve always thought the Daytona looks like a Mickey Mouse watch

[enjoythemusic]

Originally Posted by Marciano

....Air King. I’ve handled it a few times in person, and there’s something about the slimness that appeals to me, especially compared to the Sub41. Plus, I think the dial has a quirky, adventurous charm to it.

That said, I have a lot of friends urging me in other directions.

(Friendly humor) Are you sure they're really your friends?

We love what we love. You know in your heart what you need to do next

Enjoy Your Time

[Tocker]

1000% go with your gut here.

Could have, should have is no good further down the line. Itch that scratch and see how you feel with it.

At worst, you can sell it on and get to try something else....it's our hobby after all.

Win, win.....right?!

Sent from my Pixel 6 using Tapatalk

[HogwldFLTR]

Originally Posted by master cow

：哥们：

[prnceofpersia23]

Actually, I'm going to talk you INTO it.

With the AK, you'll have;
- three different bracelets (jubilee, polished oyster, brushed oyster)
- three different dial styles
- a blue accent (blnr), a red accent (daytona) and a green/yellow accent (ak)

It's the perfect complement to your duo. Go for it!

[subx]

imho: the old Air King 116900 is awesome, Milgauss curvy case, Faraday cage, less Gmt-ish, more Day Date-ish in proportions.
love mine.

[michael6120]

Originally Posted by prnceofpersia23

Actually, I'm going to talk you INTO it.

With the AK, you'll have;
- three different bracelets (jubilee, polished oyster, brushed oyster)
- three different dial styles
- a blue accent (blnr), a red accent (daytona) and a green/yellow accent (ak)

It's the perfect complement to your duo. Go for it!

I got excited for the OP just by reading this!

[Andad]

Originally Posted by Marcjvr

It’s good enough for Gordon Ramsay

Why is it not good enough for your friends?

You will give the AirKing a bad name.

[Recaro18]

I was in the same boat....I loved the quirkiness of it, but after owning one, I sold it. I feel like the proportions are off. I'd say the 39mm Expy 1 MK2 Dial is a better watch, proportions wise.

[davek35]

I won't be the one to talk you out of the AK. I like it!

[trailblazer68]

Go for it! First try it on and let your wrist do the talking, I did just that and flashes of it resting comfortably on my wrist never really left me and I eventually rang up an AD and I got mine. The slim lugs and unique dial, with Rolex quality and something so bold and different is just an awesome equation to me.

On the note of SubND, its had been a wrestle internally for the longest time since I 'lost' my 14060M and recent iterations never sinks into me..nonetheless, go try out the AK!

[davek35]

Originally Posted by davek35

I won't be the one to talk you out of the AK. I like it!

There has been some AK talk lately, so I stopped by an AD and they had one to look at.

My opinion update:

Although I don't mind the dial, I wouldn't buy it for me. The sides of the case are flat, but ever so slightly angled/flared out at the bottom edge. This makes for a rather sharp edge that I'm not sure I would like one bit after wearing it a while. I'm afraid it would digging into my wrist. I think I owned a watch, at one point, that did that.

So I have scratched the AK off of my list of watches to consider. I prefer the rounded sides on a watch like found on the YM, DJ, Explorer...

Good luck to the OP!

[L_S_SHOE]

I don’t understand it.

Is it supposed to be a pilot’s watch? Why? Because of the goofy font? Get a real pilot’s watch or a GMT.

Along the same lines, I also don’t understand the Yacht-Master. How is it relevant to someone with Yacht? The name alone is cringeworthy.


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[hoplite]

Go with your gut, ignore what other people say.

...now that I've said that, here what I have to say: Don't get the sub, you could get the airking, but you should consider a precious metals piece.

Realistically, when would you wear the air-king over your GMT or Daytona? They're all steel sports watches. I'm saying this as someone that actually likes the air-king, although I wouldn't buy one as I believe there are more desirable options.

Consider a precious metals piece.