Among the many Rolex models, the Air-King is the oldest existing "pet name." The most well-known model in its long history is the Ref. 5500, which was produced for 30 years from the late 1950s to the late 1980s. While it was positioned as an affordable model from its inception, as Rolex expanded its sales channels beyond the European continent, many limited-variation models derived from Ref. 5500 were produced for the UK and North American markets.
This time, we introduce one of these derivative models, the Ref. 5504, also known as the "Big Air-King." We will present two pieces: one with an immaculately detailed white dial, and a tropical dial version that is almost certainly a never-before-seen reference.
Both the case diameter and thickness offer substantial volume. This reference has a charm different from the comfortable 34mm size often handled by AFTER.
As its name "Big Air-King" suggests, this model features a 36mm case diameter, distinct from the usual 34mm Air-King. It is believed to have been produced for the North American market for a very short period around 1960. During the same period, the North American non-chronometer Ref. 5504 Explorer also existed, sharing the exact same case and reference.
Although it had a larger case diameter for its time, similar to the Datejust, its plain dial and bezel give it a very refined impression, lacking the flamboyance of a Datejust. Its clean appearance and solid case size make it a very appealing option for those who find the regular Air-King a bit lacking.
A model often compared to it is the Big Oyster, which we have frequently introduced at AFTER. However, the Big Air-King has a distinct charm, not only in its rarity but also in its voluminous case due to housing a thicker automatic movement.
While having a modern size, it possesses numerous vintage details, giving it a profound, never monotonous appearance.
One of the white-dial pieces features the alpha hands characteristic of this era and wide indexes at the 3, 6, and 9 o'clock positions. The refined appearance, yet never dull impression, is undoubtedly due to these details. Furthermore, the absence of luminous material, which can cause dial deterioration, is a welcome feature for long-term ownership.
And for this model, we have also received a tropical dial that everyone around says they have never seen before. With a uniformly tanned dial and silver "Air-King" and "SUPER PRECISION" lettering that stands out, this is a piece that we especially want discerning collectors to pick up.
With the clean appearance characteristic of the Air-King, combined with a substantial case diameter and thickness, this is a piece that will likely satisfy many people.
