Although it gives us a new reference number, the Air-King Ref. 116900 is not so much retired as replaced, with the latest Ref. 126900 taking over. The outgoing watch has been around since 2016, a comeback after a brief complete hiatus in 2014, and its run dates back to the middle of the Second World War.
But, longest-serving name in the replica Rolex catalog or not, the Air-King has always been a very popular name, gaining far less of a following than the Submariner or the Daytona. In fact, due to its status as the forgotten Rolex, many predicted that the model would be quietly phased out of existence this year. Instead, it was granted an upgrade, with the new reference benefiting from a redesigned case with crown protection, a thinner bezel resulting in a larger dial, and a new generation of Cal. 3230.
The original Yachtmaster collection has received much attention lately; this year is no exception. It is available in two sizes, in a range of metals and bracelets, including Rolex’s first attempt at a rubber strap, the Oysterflex.
Interestingly, the most understated variant, the Ref. 116689 in white gold with platinum bezel, is the one that was eliminated this year. Why fake Rolex decided to retire the most versatile piece in the collection is another mystery. Still, its materials do make it the most expensive option in a collection that was never very popular in the first place.
However, these watches are available on the used market for around, if not below, the official retail price – not something you can say about every Rolex Sports model. Now, whether that will change, we don’t know, but educated guesses suggest that it is quite possible.
Finally, Rolex seems to have acknowledged the failure of the Cellini line, which is their line of pure dress watches.
It’s been a long time coming. As beautiful as these pieces are, they stick out a bit, retaining a few of Rolex’s most important design principles, and don’t even qualify for an Oyster case.
The 2022 bids farewell to the two pure time models and the two time-date models, leaving only the wonderful Ref. 50535 Moonphase. With its 39 mm stellar case and white lacquered dial, this is the last Cellini watch and a stunning piece in its own right.