How much does the cheapest Rolex watch cost? What does the cheapest Rolex watch look like?

　　Mention Rolex and many people think of the Submariner, gold Rolexes, etc. Of course, gold Rolexes here mainly refer to related models such as the DD and DJ. However, these models are actually quite expensive, with domestic retail prices generally starting around sixty to seventy thousand, which is relatively costly compared to some other luxury watch models. So, how much does the cheapest Rolex watch cost? Actually, they do exist, and it is a model some friends may not be very familiar with:Rolex Air-King series, whose Chinese name is Kongba series. Today, we will share with you some content regarding the Air-King series.

　　Historical Origins

　　Whether looking at the English name 'Air-King' or the Chinese translation 'Kongba', we can perceive a sense of victory. Understanding this makes the historical origins of the Air-King series basically clear: it was specially created by Rolex to commemorate Britain's victory in the Battle of Britain during the Second World War. Thus, although Rolex founder Mr Wilsdorf was German, he was nevertheless strongly opposed to the German fascist regime of the time, or perhaps still held a deep affection for Britain, the earliest birthplace of Rolex.

　　After the launch of this series, the prices of its models were basically the cheapest among Rolex watches, and in a sense, they just filled the price 'chasm' that still existed between the previously cheapest Rolex models and Rolex's secondary brand, Tudor. However, from actual observations, this watch model has remained relatively 'obscure' for some time, not as well-known as other models or Tudor.

The earliest Air-King model 6564, stainless steel material, case diameter 34 millimetres.

　　Like other watch models, along with constant movement updates and design shifts, the references of the Air-King have also evolved continually. The first-generation Air-King model, reference 6564, was equipped with the 1030 movement, featuring a simple three-hand layout, mostly with a black dial. From 1957 onwards, the Air-King began to be fitted with the 1530 movement. The 1530 movement can be regarded as the prototype of modern Rolex automatic movements, commonly known as the butterfly rotor, and most of its automatic winding wheels lacked a red coating. In 1989, the 3000 movement was released, and the Air-King started using the 3000 movement, with its references changing to 14000 and 14010. In 2001, the 3000 movement was updated to the 3130 movement, and the Air-King references were accordingly updated to 14000M and 14010M.

　　Related watches

　　Rolex Air-King automatic mechanical watch 114200

　　Watch reference: 114200

　　Watch collection: Air-King collection

　　Movement Type: automatic mechanical

　　Gender: Men's

　　Case Material: Stainless steel

　　Bracelet Material: Stainless steel

　　Case Diameter: 34 mm

　　RRP in China: RMB 41000

　　Replica price: RMB 1600  

　　Although some models within the Oyster Perpetual collection are stamped with Air-King, the Air-King as an independent watch collection disappeared for a period. Naturally, Oyster Perpetual models stamped with Air-King are relatively more affordable, which can also be understood as another form of the Air-King collection's existence.

The latest Rolex Air-King model 116900-71200 launched this year is powered by the 3131 automatic winding movement, crafted from stainless steel with a case diameter of 40 mm and water resistance of 100 metres, with a guide price of 48000 HKD (subject to actual pricing).

　　At this year's Baselworld, which was strongly influenced by vintage trends, one of Rolex's major highlights was the relaunch of the Air-King collection. For these brand-new models, the main changes include increasing the case diameter to 40 mm, making it better suited to modern wrist sizes, while the movement has also gained chronometer certification. It is also worth mentioning that the combination of Rolex green and gold is used by Rolex for the first time, and the highly distinctive Mercedes hands have been incorporated too. Mentioning this, one can probably understand why previous Air-King models were relatively more affordable—an important reason being that many earlier Air-King models were not submitted for chronometer certification. Additionally, Air-King models tend to be relatively simple, generally lacking complications such as a date display.

　　Overall verdict: Air-King models also feature Rolex's patented Oyster structure, meaning water resistance goes without saying. Because of factors such as relatively simple functions, it can be called the most affordable Rolex watch. Capitalising on this vintage trend sweeping through watchmaking, the Air-King collection has returned to us with a completely fresh look.

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