Rolex Everest 5505 EXPLORER HERITAGE

Rolex Air-King "Everest" – Ref. 5505 (1958)

36mm | Two-Tone Dial | Serviced | 2-Year Warranty

The Rolex Air-King "Everest" ref. 5505 is one of those references that rarely makes headlines, but tells a chapter of Rolex history that collectors quietly revere — a transitional piece that bridges sport and dress, tool and story, myth and function.

Produced for an extremely short period in the mid-to-late 1950s, the Air-King Everest was part of a limited distribution run primarily aimed at Commonwealth and Canadian markets, capitalizing on the aura of the 1953 British Everest Expedition — the same historic climb that Rolex had already tied its name to, most famously through prototype Oyster Perpetuals worn by Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay. Like a different way to capitalise the mountain climbing world by Rolex. Instead of going ahead with just the explorer line they tried certain routes to try to market these types of watches.

The Everest badging on the dial is subtle, and in many examples barely survives at all. Here, however, it remains clear and legible — an understated nod to that heritage moment, and one of the very few times Rolex printed a model name that wasn't part of a larger production line.

This particular example, serial 370XXX, dates to 1958 and features the correct 36mm Oyster case, which places it in rare company: the ref. 5505 shares dimensions and dial proportions with both the Explorer 1016 and the 1018 Air-King — making it a kind of missing-link reference for collectors of mid-century Rolex steel. The case shows honest wear and is not mint, but all components are original and correct for the reference to our conception. Crown and caseback signed, crown is a regular twin lock crown. In my personal opinion, most likely a replacement during service since this period often shows brevet crowns.

What sets this piece apart visually is the remarkable two-tone dial, which remains in outstanding condition. The gilt printing, the contrast between the chapter ring and inner sector, and the warmth of the aging all come together into something that feels truly special — not over-restored, not overly glossy, but simply right.

The movement has been fully serviced (July 2025) and comes with a 24-month mechanical warranty. It is currently paired with a deep blue handmade Italian leather strap, but this can be exchanged for a different option depending on buyer preference.

Not a watch for those chasing hype — but very much one for collectors who understand nuance, scarcity, and the quiet gravity of a Rolex with a real historical backstory. 

Details:
Ref: 5505
Serial: 370XXX (circa 1958)
Case: 36mm stainless steel, signed crown and caseback
Dial: Original two-tone, gilt text, “EVEREST” designation
Movement: Automatic Rolex (serviced 07/2025)
Strap: Italian handmade leather (blue, can be changed)
Warranty: 24 months mechanical
Condition: Case shows wear consistent with age; dial remains in excellent condition

Available now. Worldwide shipping.