The Rolex Air-King, particularly the coveted "Double 9" reference, holds a special place in the hearts of vintage watch enthusiasts. Its understated elegance, coupled with its robust build and fascinating history, makes it a highly sought-after collectible. However, determining the precise worth of a Double 9 Air-King requires a nuanced understanding of various factors beyond simply its age. This article will delve into the complexities of pricing this iconic timepiece, exploring different aspects that influence its value and providing a comprehensive overview to help you navigate the market.
Defining the "Double 9" Air-King:
Before we delve into pricing, it's crucial to understand what constitutes a "Double 9" Air-King. The term refers to specific dial configurations found in certain Air-King references, primarily those produced between the late 1950s and early 1960s. These dials are characterized by:
* White Eggshell Paint: The dial features a creamy white, eggshell-like finish, which often develops a beautiful patina over time. This patina, while potentially deterring some buyers, is often seen as a desirable characteristic by collectors who appreciate the watch's history.
* Script Air-King Logo: The "Air-King" logo is rendered in a graceful script font, adding to the dial's vintage charm.
* "Super Precision": The inscription "Super Precision" indicates the watch's high accuracy, a key feature emphasized by Rolex during this era.
* Applied ROLEX and Coronet: The Rolex logo, featuring the iconic coronet (crown), is applied rather than printed, contributing to the dial's three-dimensional appearance and higher perceived quality.
* Stick Markers or 3, 6, and 9 Arabic Numerals: The hour markers typically consist of either slender stick markers or Arabic numerals at the 3, 6, and 9 o'clock positions. The combination of these elements defines the coveted "Double 9" aesthetic.
Rolex Air-King Price Chart (Illustrative):
Creating a precise price chart for the Double 9 Air-King is challenging due to the numerous variables influencing its value. However, we can outline a general price range based on condition and specific features:
| Condition | Price Range (USD) | Notes |
|----------------------|--------------------|----------------------------------------------------------------------|
| Excellent (Near Mint)| $5,000 - $10,000+ | Pristine condition, minimal signs of wear, original bracelet. |
| Very Good | $3,500 - $7,000 | Minor signs of wear, original or near-original bracelet. |
| Good | $2,000 - $4,500 | Noticeable signs of wear, potential service history needed. |
| Fair | $1,500 - $3,000 | Significant wear, may require extensive servicing. |
| Poor | Below $1,500 | Requires significant restoration, parts may be missing or replaced. |
Important Note: These price ranges are estimates and should not be considered definitive. The actual value of a specific Double 9 Air-King will depend on several factors discussed in detail below.
Rolex Air-King Cost & Price List Factors:
The cost of a Rolex Air-King, specifically the Double 9, is influenced by several interconnected factors:
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