Baselworld 2020, while ultimately overshadowed by the pandemic’s looming presence, did see the unveiling of several noteworthy timepieces. Among them, the updated Rolex Air-King, priced at $9,450.00, generated significant buzz – and perhaps even more significant controversy. This article delves deep into the Rolex Air-King 116900 presented at Baselworld 2020, exploring its design choices, technical specifications, and the polarising reception it received within the watch community. We’ll examine the reasons behind the mixed reactions, considering both its strengths and weaknesses, to provide a comprehensive understanding of this particular model.
The Air-King, historically a less prominent member of the Rolex family, has always occupied a curious niche. It's never been a flagship model like the Daytona or Submariner, nor has it consistently held the same level of collector interest. However, its history is rich, tracing back to its introduction in 1957, designed as a tribute to the pioneering pilots and aviation industry. This legacy, however, didn't necessarily translate into consistent popularity or a clear design language across its various iterations. The Baselworld 2020 Air-King, therefore, represented a significant opportunity for Rolex to redefine the model and potentially revitalize its appeal.
The 2020 Air-King, reference 116900, marked a departure from previous iterations. The most striking change was the dial. Gone was the more traditional, less cluttered design of previous models. In its place was a bold, updated aesthetic. The 3-6-9 numerals, a staple of many Air-King variations, were retained, but they were now larger, bolder, and presented in a more modern font. The indices were also redesigned, adopting a slightly more angular and less refined approach compared to the smoother, more elegant designs seen in previous models. The dial itself also featured a prominent, slightly oversized date window at 3 o'clock, something not always present in earlier Air-King models. This bolder, more assertive design language, while undeniably modern, became a central point of contention for many watch enthusiasts.
The case, measuring 40mm in diameter, remained relatively unchanged from previous models, fitting comfortably on a variety of wrists. The Oyster case, a hallmark of Rolex durability and water resistance (100 meters), provided the familiar robust construction expected from the brand. The crown, protected by the familiar crown guards, maintained its ease of use and reliable functionality. The bracelet, a classic Oyster bracelet with its three-piece links and folding Oysterclasp, offered the same comfortable and secure fit known throughout the Rolex range. While these aspects of the watch received less criticism, the overall aesthetic impact of these elements was undeniably influenced by the bold dial design.
The movement powering the Rolex Air-King 116900 was the Calibre 3131, a self-winding mechanical movement with a 48-hour power reserve. This movement, while not the latest and greatest from Rolex, offered proven reliability and accuracy. It's a workhorse movement, known for its robustness and ability to withstand daily wear and tear. The inclusion of this movement was, therefore, a sensible choice, focusing on dependability rather than showcasing cutting-edge technology. This pragmatic approach, however, didn't fully alleviate the concerns generated by the controversial dial.
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