Rolex Air king 5500 Dark linnen dial

Rolex Air-King – Ref. 5500 – Serial 2894XXX (1971) – Dark Grey Linen Dial

There are Air-Kings — and then there are the ones that quietly stop you in your tracks.

This Rolex Air-King 5500 from 1971 carries a stunning dark grey linen dial, one of those subtle textures that only reveal themselves when the light hits just right. Up close, the cross-woven finish gives depth and movement; from a distance, it reads as a restrained charcoal tone. It is understated, rare and incredibly elegant.

The 34mm Oyster case remains the perfect proportion — slim, balanced and wearable on any wrist. The smooth bezel keeps the aesthetic clean, allowing the textured dial to take centre stage. The acrylic crystal adds warmth and softness that modern sapphire simply cannot replicate.

Fitted on a quality leather strap, this Air-King wears refined and slightly dressy, highlighting the dial even more. It becomes less tool watch, more discreet vintage statement.

A proper early-70s Air-King with one of the most desirable dial configurations available.

Technical Background

The reference 5500 was produced from the late 1950s until the late 1980s, making it one of Rolex’s longest-running models. Early 1970s examples like this are typically powered by the Rolex calibre 1520 automatic movement, offering robust reliability in a clean, no-date configuration. Linen dials were produced in relatively small numbers and remain highly collectible today.

Tech Sheet

• Reference: 5500

• Serial: 2894XXX

• Year: 1971

• Case Size: 34mm

• Movement: Rolex calibre 1520 (automatic)

• Dial: Dark grey linen

• Bezel: Smooth stainless steel

• Crystal: Plexiglass

• Strap: Leather strap

• Condition: Excellent vintage condition

• Warranty: 2-year warranty