When it comes to "budget" Rolex, there are few watches more attractive than an Air King.

The proportions are perfect, the movement robust and the styling timeless. It’s not hard to make the argument that the Air King is one of the most versatile time-only watches on the market, as all it takes is a strap change to transform this watch from go-to tuxedo accoutrement to a field watch or BBQ grill timer. When you factor in that the Air King is available in a broad variety of dial color configurations, the appeal grows even more.

This example, a Reference 5500, dates to circa 1972 and features a 34mm stainless steel Oyster case with holey lugs, an acrylic crystal, a signed crown, a lovely silver 'linen' Tritium dial with applied indices a matching handset, and a stainless steel Oyster bracelet with a signed blade clasp. Best of all, it’s powered by a Rolex chronometer automatic movement. 

Amidst increasing popularity for the Oyster Perpetual and Air King lines, this is a great value for a lovely dial configuration suitable for all occasions.