Rolex Air King 114200 SASO

[lorsban]

Hey guys,

Finally got my new AK! Here's what I think, in case anyone's interested...

Rolex Air King Silver dial, arabic numerals, domed bezel:

Price:

About $3,400 - it's a quality watch but you have to think that it's got a lot to do with the brand than for cutting edge tech or materials.

Size:

34mm - the case width is practically the same as my datejust which means you need some kind of measuring tool to really tell the difference. From lug to lug though, it's shorter than the datejust. But they share the same thickness from what I can tell. Right now, it's the smallest watch I have. It looks tiny next to my Breitling SuperOcean.

Size was a big issue for me but honestly, I'm liking how it looks on my wrist. It looks right. By modern standards, it would be considered small but I see this more as a fashion thing since back when the Air King was launched 32-33mm watches were considered normal or even big - there were big guys back then too and I'm only 5'9" so I'm no giant. Anyway, I still have those bigger watches for those times I'm feeling "insecure." haha!

Weight:

I'm not sure exactly how much it weighs but it feels heavier than the datejust most probably due to the fact that my old watch has a jubilee bracelet, while this has a solid oyster bracelet. I like how it feels on my wrist more than the datejust. It's the combination of the weight and that smooth oyster bracelet that makes it feel really comfortable to wear.

Design:

Plain, simple, classic. It's a no-nonsense watch that goes with anything. This is what I wanted. I looked at the Tag Heuer Carrera and Omega Aqua Terra along with the Air King. On line they all look good but I made my decision based on the belief that the Rolex came first when it comes to that style.

Good thing too, since when I tried the Tag on, it looked like it was a notch down in terms of build quality. The Omega, however was a close runner up but I didn't like that it was styled flashier. Again, I didn't want a flashy watch.

Box:

Ok, they could've done better in this department. I was expecting something more like the box that my datejust came with which looks really good. This box looks kinda cheap with that plastic wave design thing on top. Minor issue I guess, since I didn't buy this for the box. Still, I wouldn't mind a smaller box as long as it was designed tastefully.

Luminescence:

This watch has very good night time visibility. What else can I say?

Summary:

I was hoping to round-out my watch collection with a simple go anywhere, do anything type of watch and I believe I found it with the Air King. I was concerned with the size but I now realize it's not an issue. I wouldn't wear something smaller than this, though. It's very comfortable on the wrist, I think it's the most comfortable watch I have right now in terms of weight and bracelet design.

Practically, the only things that would bring this thing down would be the price and the box design. I think it could be priced cheaper. $3200 would be right. But I guess resale value and the fact that I might use this the most, more than makes up for it. I follow the simple price:utility ratio when I make an investment. I think the use I'll get from this watch covers for the price I paid for it.

As for the box, it looks cheap. I used to have a Tag Heuer that came with a better box. But in the end, it's the watch that matters most and I foresee this as being my main watch for a very long time.

regards,

lorsban

[GMTJOHNNY]

I love my 1991 Air King and wear it on casual business days. It is a great time keeper! My sister has my father's AK and I got this one to remind me of him.
Simple, elegant, and very functional!
Good luck!
:thumbsup:

[SPACE-DWELLER]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts!

Pics would have been nice!

[lorsban]

25490

25491

25492

I apologize for the poor quality. I'm pretty bad at taking pictures and I took these with a camera phone.

[lorsban]

Here are some comparisons:

25648

25649

[oneillba]

Very thorough review! Helpfull for anyone who is considering an Air King as a purchase and Rolex owners in general. Thanks for the SxS photo next to the Datejust. I know what you mean about the box. Ever buy an Apple product? From iPods to iMacs, they make opening the box as much of an experience as using the product. Many could learn from them for the "initial customer experience".

[timackerman]

Thanks for the review and the pics :thumbsup:

[lorsban]

Here's a clearer pic:

25657

[Terry Newton]

Great review and pictures. What a classic look on the Air King. Wear it in good health :cheers: The last set of pictures turned out much better than the phone home ones :lol: :lol: :lol:

Terry Newton

[lorsban]

I know what you mean about the box. Ever buy an Apple product? From iPods to iMacs, they make opening the box as much of an experience as using the product.

Like I said, it could stand to be a couple of bucks cheaper. But as it is, I don't mind if they put a little more effort in their presentation. The AK is one of the lowest priced in their line-up but it's still an expensive watch for what it is (a basic stainless steel automatic) and for what it does (tell time).

The last set of pictures turned out much better than the phone home ones

You said it. I asked my wife to take the picture this time with a real camera and it came out pretty good. I actually wanted to replace all those other ones but for some reason I can't find the edit button on those other posts.

[Widows Son]

Thanks for the thorough review!!! I posted several weeks ago about a gift from a lodge Brother of a 1991 pristine AK. I LOVE IT!!!! mine has a white dial and full markers. It's truly a gorgeous understated watch. A sharp contrast to my OP TT Date. The OP date also has the white dial, but has the Roman Numerals. It's also a little flashier, and a little more formal.

[lorsban]

Yeah, I wanted something basic, yet presentable and the AK fits the bill to a "T." I was planning to get the one with a white dial and black numerals, it looks somewhat sportier than the stainless steel model.

[wayne_zmh]

Nice AK!!!
What's the RRP?

[AIRKING114200]

Great review and pictures.

I know excactly what you mean. We have just fallen in love with this classy, understated brilliant watch.

Its puristic design communicates clear understatement – and thus shows the owner’s style and exclusivity. :cheers:

Wear it in good health.


Here a snapshot from mine.


http://img219.imageshack.us/img219/6522/cimg0625le7.jpg

[eric23]

Great Review, Watch looks good!:thumbsup:

[lorsban]

Nice AK!!!
What's the RRP?

Online prices would be a good enough basis since I find that the (friendly) dealer quotations don't stray far from that. The price I got mine for was pretty close to the one's on www.jomashop.com, which was around $3400.

[lorsban]

Great review and pictures.

I know excactly what you mean. We have just fallen in love with this classy, understated brilliant watch.

Its puristic design communicates clear understatement – and thus shows the owner’s style and exclusivity. :cheers:

Wear it in good health.


Here a snapshot from mine.


http://img219.imageshack.us/img219/6522/cimg0625le7.jpg

Nice pic! It really does the watch justice!

[ElvisNews]

I love this model... however, tired it on and alas even if I have all link removed from the band it still much too big... Rolex should offer female bands which are narrow and smaller as in the older model Air-King which I am wearing now... fits perfectly, I even sleep in mine...

[lorsban]

Hmm...a lot of women are buying the AK (they even have it with a pink dial, pink markers), I wonder why they don't offer smaller straps. If the lugs are the same size, maybe you could swap yours with the new one?

[zak98]

my version of the Airking. love it.

http://michaelluczak.com/tmp/p_series_airking.gif

[lorsban]

Very nice, zak98!

[SPACE-DWELLER]

Thanks for the pics, LB!

Great looking AK!

[lorsban]

Good thing zak posted his pic. I'm still trying to figure out how to edit the earlier pics so I can post better ones.

[ElvisNews]

Expert opinion... as mentioned the new Air King bracelet with the flip top opening is too big... if I purchased a normal Rolex bracelet (the one that opens with one flick) would I devalue to watch? I know clear as mud but I don't know how else to explain the different Rolex bracelets...

[lorsban]

if I purchased a normal Rolex bracelet (the one that opens with one flick) would I devalue to watch?

As long as you keep the original bracelet, you could always put it back in case you sell it.

[ElvisNews]

Lorsban... now that you have reviewed the silver dial air king you have got me thinking whether I should get that instead of the white dial... however, I have poor eye sight and find that silver dial watches with silver hands tend to disappear in dim light... do you have any problem telling the time in night light...

All experts chip in with your opinions... White dial more female? Or silver dial more male? Wrist size a mere 15cm and that is would be loose on my hand ...

[lorsban]

however, I have poor eye sight and find that silver dial watches with silver hands tend to disappear in dim light... do you have any problem telling the time in night light...

Hmm...I never really gave it much thought but it seems ok to me. As long as there's a little light, you can tell the time. The silver dial is matte, while the hands are shinny so it contrasts pretty well with the dial. But, the white faced model would probably give you better visibility.

White dial more female? Or silver dial more male?

The white one looks more sporty to me, the silver more classy. I think my wife showed me a pic of Jennifer Aniston with an AK like mine, it looked good. If you want it to look more feminine, you can get the one with pink markers. They also have it with a pink dial. I'm not sure though, try them all on and see which suits you more.

By the way, in case you're thinking of swapping bracelets, it would be good to confirm whether the bracelet you want suits this model before you buy.

[marshallr47]

I think it's classy. Thanks for the review.

[lorsban]

Here's a pic of the clasp for anyone whose interested. For me, it's by far the best designed in terms of ergonomics and deployment.

[cabmadd]

Mine's the same as Lorsban's And I have to say I love it to bits, I've had GMT 's in the past and a submariner but switched for a while to an Omega Planet ocean and I have a cartier tank francais and I have to say my air king is an amazing watch gonna trade in My Cartier for a GMT II
Great pics!!!
CB

[Timber Loftis]

Thanks for the review. I'm a big fan of the Air King, and I believe it will be the next Rolex I try to purchase.

[lorsban]

I think AirKing114200 said it best: "Its puristic design communicates clear understatement – and thus shows the owner’s style and exclusivity. "

In today's world of bling, super-sized cases, and outward shows of extravagance, the Air-King represents a return to traditional simplicity.

[mikey]

I remember when you could buy a preowned AK for $12-1500.

[frostie]

Spectacular review enjoyed reading it :cheers:

[lorsban]

Spectacular review enjoyed reading it :cheers:

Thanks, Frostie!

[lagalaxy27]

New here, but I just got my first Rolex. It's an air king. Just love it. It's the new model, blue face with orange numerals

[Boopie]

The blue/orange combination is very attractive. Congratulations on your new watch purchase.

[jbrockiii]

New here, but I just got my first Rolex. It's an air king. Just love it. It's the new model, blue face with orange numerals

I like this face so much, I think it looks great on the AirKing. I'm thinking about getting this same watch. Wish they had this face on the Datejust too.

[GradyPhilpott]

I had been admiring the AirKing for many, many months thinking that'd be the watch for me only to realize how small it is, once I had it on my wrist.

It looks good on lorsban's wrist, fantastic, in fact, but on mine it looked to be about the size of a dime.

I went with the Explorer which was about $700 more, but worth it.

[Ivy League]

Technically speaking........is there any difference between an Airking and an Explorer?

[lorsban]

I think the Explorer, No Date Sub and Air-King all use the same movement. The Explorer has a bigger case than the Air-King, matching the size of the Datejust series, which is 36mm vs. 34mm for the Air-King. The deployment clasp of the Air-King is an updated version and I understand is more secure than the one of the Explorer.

[365drills]

Air King with a bit of bling

http://photos-a.ak.facebook.com/photos-ak-sf2p/v358/194/96/617362013/n617362013_952680_2148.jpg

[lorsban]

What a beauty! I normally don't like diamonds on watch dials but it's so tastefully done on yours.

I think Rolex should add more options like this to the Air-King range. It's such a great platform to add options to.

[petespendthrift]

Love that new AirKing with the silver dial. I thought Rolex had completely lost the plot but it seems they really got this one right. Of the new models the GMT-IIc is nearly right (just the polished links are not to my liking) but this silver dialled AirKing looks like it scores 10/10.

I hope this model sells well as it will encourage Rolex to get back to practical watches.

[Lagom70116]

[QUOTE=lorsban;633136]Hmm...I never really gave it much thought but it seems ok to me. As long as there's a little light, you can tell the time. The silver dial is matte, while the hands are shinny so it contrasts pretty well with the dial. But, the white faced model would probably give you better visibility.


I had the same question. My AD has the steel face models, which look very nice under the store lighting, but I was curious how easy it is to read in daylight. (I do like the roman numerals.)

I was also considering the Date model. Same size, but provides the half-link adjustment to the bracelet. I also like the polished center link too.

I have time to decide, and enjoy reading others' experiences.

[alphamale2012]

Are all the airkings the same size???

[rolexjim]

Hello to you all. This is my first post as I am the proud 1st time owner of a brand new Rolex. My wife surprised me with an Air King yesterday. It has the blue face with the orange numerals as the previous poster showed in his picture. I absolutely love it. I never thought the day would come that I would own a Rolex as I have always desired one. I am now semi-retired after selling my long standing business so I suppose she figures I "have arrived"!!

I plan to do much reading here to garner information and I am sure I will post some questions too.

Cheers.

[lorsban]

Are all the airkings the same size???

Yup, AK's and Oyster Date's are all 34mm. Closest thing to an AK with a larger size is the Explorer I, which is the same size as the DJ: 36mm.

[lorsban]

Hello to you all. This is my first post as I am the proud 1st time owner of a brand new Rolex. My wife surprised me with an Air King yesterday. It has the blue face with the orange numerals as the previous poster showed in his picture. I absolutely love it. I never thought the day would come that I would own a Rolex as I have always desired one. I am now semi-retired after selling my long standing business so I suppose she figures I "have arrived"!!

I plan to do much reading here to garner information and I am sure I will post some questions too.

Cheers.

Yeah, that blue/orange combo looks real sharp! The Air-King itself is a great no-nonsense watch. It's minimalist, classic and the blue and orange scheme gives it an edge. Definitely an awesome present!

[rolexjim]

I am certainly enjoying it. What I like the most are it's conservative looks. I never wanted a Rolex for others to admire, but for my own satisfaction. I doubt anyone will ever ask what kind of watch I am wearing based on it's looks, and that's fine with me.

Great forum here.

[cody p]

the AK is definitely under the radar. mine ocasionally attracts attention - i think that's because the fit and finish (904L has a sheen all it's own) naturally draws the eye of those attracted to quality - but i never get asked 'the question'. which suits me just fine.

[werc1]

the AK is definitely under the radar. mine ocasionally attracts attention - i think that's because the fit and finish (904L has a sheen all it's own) naturally draws the eye of those attracted to quality - but i never get asked 'the question'. which suits me just fine.

I agree, I'm looking to pick up an AK. Was at my local Tourneau and tried one on. Very understated, as to not draw a lot of attention as some of my other watches.

[lorsban]

the AK is definitely under the radar. mine ocasionally attracts attention - i think that's because the fit and finish (904L has a sheen all it's own) naturally draws the eye of those attracted to quality - but i never get asked 'the question'. which suits me just fine.

Just to add, the AK looks really good in dim lighting, for some reason.

[tthopp05]

Thats sharp

[HRHalderman]

I like what you have to say about the size and weight, which I think are often very overlooked characteristics. The Platinum Yachtmaster is absolutely gorgeous, but it's almost too heavy to be practical, especially when most of us mouse and keyboard during the day. it looks elegant and can be worn with jeans and T just as easily as a suit. But for those of you still shopping around, please take the weight into consideration, especially if it's something you'll be sensitive to.

[Tau44]

i was researching the air king today on the internet and came about this website. it is great.. i was doing research on a 1963 SS Air King Rolex watch I have the chance to buy from an estate for $1000. I was trying to find some pics of this watch and info on it. I am suppose to go and look at it this weekend. I was trying to find out if it was a good deal or not. I have found quite a bit of information on late 60's and early 50's but not much on a 1963 model. Is it a good watch? Just trying to gain as much knowledge as I can before I go and look at it. This would be my first Rolex.

Thanks,

Tau:agree:

[hflee55]

nice review

[mcjp6]

An Air King thread! Great, there should be more of them. :thumbsup:

I have been looking for a while and was lucky to find this one, 5501, on ebay a couple of weeks ago. I just love the simple classic lines.

[goduke1]

Wow, a rare Air-King Thread. Nice write up.

[JoeACE]

I guess thats all what ak is about: the simple classic lines.:) Love it for that, so simple but still so complicated.. it's such a complex relationship.. hehe

[johnnybazookajoe]

Hello to you all. This is my first post as I am the proud 1st time owner of a brand new Rolex. My wife surprised me with an Air King yesterday. It has the blue face with the orange numerals as the previous poster showed in his picture. I absolutely love it. I never thought the day would come that I would own a Rolex as I have always desired one. I am now semi-retired after selling my long standing business so I suppose she figures I "have arrived"!!

I plan to do much reading here to garner information and I am sure I will post some questions too.

Cheers.

Congrats on your new Rolex! You'll find yourself devoting alot of time to this forum and starting to love Rolex's more and more. It was very sweet of your wife, and she picked out a solid model.

You have found the best forum on the net with the nicest people that will do their best to answer your questions rolex and non-rolex related. I give you 3 weeks before you start to think of what Rolex model you want next, and seeing if you can justify it....

[jayc67]

Love the great looking AK's especially the older model on leather straps.

I just got a new blue dial AK today and I was really thinking about getting leather for it and putting the steel bracelet in the box.

Anyone wearing their AK with leather? Pics would help :)

Thanks

[Cubanchem]

one of my all time favorites

[thomaskho]

Awesome AK! always classic look... !

[Kapture1]

Own the same AK... love it. Good to see 4 pages of love for the Air-King

[boyntons2]

I just got the same watch. I agree about the box though, I love the watch.

Here's mine.

[HunterST]

My Air-King lasted about a month before my girlfriend adopted it as her own. Now I have to find a new one!

[SCD]

I just got an Air King last month. I wanted a great mechanical watch and Rolex just looked like a really high quality product. But I didn't want to be wearing an icon...you know with the fluted bezel and all...I wanted to be a little under the radar and just enjoy it by myself.

I have a larger than average wrist but I think it looks just fine. I'm not against the big watch thing these days, my largest is a 45mm, but today's "small" watch is really just a *normal* watch by *normal* standards. It's not glamorous...it's just a basic really really good watch with a basic, timeless design...and that's exactly what I wanted. I was also thinking about the Explorer I, but this AK seemed a little "cooler" in the quiet way. The Explorer I doesn't have the newer all-solid bracelet yet either and that helped me decide.

The only thing I would change about it is that there's only a hairline of lume on the hands and it's not really adequate.

http://mustapickguitars.com/watches/IMG_8991.jpg

[cody p]

I just got an Air King last month. I wanted a great mechanical watch and Rolex just looked like a really high quality product. But I didn't want to be wearing an icon...you know with the fluted bezel and all...I wanted to be a little under the radar and just enjoy it by myself.

I have a larger than average wrist but I think it looks just fine. I'm not against the big watch thing these days, my largest is a 45mm, but today's "small" watch is really just a *normal* watch by *normal* standards. It's not glamorous...it's just a basic really really good watch with a basic, timeless design...and that's exactly what I wanted. I was also thinking about the Explorer I, but this AK seemed a little "cooler" in the quiet way. The Explorer I doesn't have the newer all-solid bracelet yet either and that helped me decide.

The only thing I would change about it is that there's only a hairline of lume on the hands and it's not really adequate.

http://mustapickguitars.com/watches/IMG_8991.jpg

great choice! :cheers:

[Gerardus]

Great story,:thumbsup:

[Jun Cajayon]

Love the Air King guys! Overlooked, understated but definitely timeless... Here are some shots of my 14010...

http://i933.photobucket.com/albums/ad180/rcajayon/Rolex%20Air%20King%2014010/IMG_0419.jpg

http://i933.photobucket.com/albums/ad180/rcajayon/Rolex%20Air%20King%2014010/IMG_0436.jpg

http://i933.photobucket.com/albums/ad180/rcajayon/Rolex%20Air%20King%2014010/IMG_0490.jpg

Let's keep this thread running!:dude:

[sea-dweller]

Nice AK !!!

[1200m]

Hi,
what are the difference between the 14000 and 114200?

[AK40DJ50]

Air King is a great watch. Wearable for every occasion and I love the engine turned bezel on my 14010.

[replicarolexwatches]

cool!that is so so wonderful!

==========================
http://swisswatches-shop.com/

[Kapture1]

The AK has a very classic look to it. Looks great with a suit or with jeans and a t. Makes a wonderful first Rolex to anyone starting their collection, and makes a great everyday wrist jockey. Looks good in photos, but you have to try it on and see it in person to really appreciate the watch's subtle beauty. A really good pickup Lorsban! Nice choice.

[HFLO]

learn quite a bit about AK reading through this thread.
BTW, what is different between AK 114200 compare to 114200? what abt their price tag?
thks for sharing.

[hhinger]

all great watches.
my favorite is white dial with roman, and white dial with balck number.
maybe soon i will have one too.

[rothbury]

all great watches.
my favorite is white dial with roman, and white dial with balck number.
maybe soon i will have one too.

Just seen this site! I don't think any of you will ever regret your decision.
I was given mine in 1968 and still wear it every day. It cost £50. I always swim with it on preferring to take it into the sea on my wrist to leaving it for thieves on the beach.

I have had it serviced twice times in 42 years and it is with Rolex now for a third service!

It is a simple stainless steel watch which has never lost its appeal in all that time, always looking appropriate as we have both aged! It is always much admired as well. As you have all said ,a true Classic.

[Crispy]

Does anyone have the blue dial with roman numerals? Also does this configuration appear crowded in relation to the Explorer style arabic dial?

[tryp]

Here's a clearer pic:

25657


hey
what are the LUGS width on both watches?

thanks

[lorsban]

Wow! Can't believe this thread is still alive! I've sold the AK a while back so I can't be too sure but I think the lug width is 18mm.

[kcmo]

Wow! Can't believe this thread is still alive! I've sold the AK a while back so I can't be too sure but I think the lug width is 18mm.

Do you miss it at all? Looked great on you!

[xjeeunitx]

Hi,
what are the difference between the 14000 and 114200?

The 14000 used cal. 3000 and has lug holes with older case design/clasp/non-sel end links/hollow links.

The 14000M which came out after 2001 was introduced with cal 3130 and still had the older case case design/clasp/non-sel end links/hollow links.

The 114200 came out in 2005 and kept cal 3130(still used today in Oyster Perp, Sub No Date, etc.) and had newer case design/updated clasp/sel end links/filled links.

I hope this helps.

[lorsban]

Do you miss it at all? Looked great on you!

Hey thanks for the compliment! I do miss it a bit. I miss the simple, all-around, classic good looks that it has.

Its just find it a little small. Actually, I find anything less than 39mm a little small. Although, when I had the AK, I was definitely singing a totally different tune. Then again, I did find 39mm too big before as well so go figure.

Maybe as I get older, I'll go back to the more subdued look of the AK. A 36mm AK would be awesome tho.

[kcmo]

Hey thanks for the compliment! I do miss it a bit. I miss the simple, all-around, classic good looks that it has.

Its just find it a little small. Actually, I find anything less than 39mm a little small. Although, when I had the AK, I was definitely singing a totally different tune. Then again, I did find 39mm too big before as well so go figure.

Maybe as I get older, I'll go back to the more subdued look of the AK. A 36mm AK would be awesome tho.

I think it's all about what you get used to. For me, 36mm is absolutely perfect. I prefer not to go over 40mm. Comfort is key :thumbsup:

[lorsban]

I think it's all about what you get used to. For me, 36mm is absolutely perfect. I prefer not to go over 40mm. Comfort is key :thumbsup:

I agree, a watch has to be comfortable. But, for me, if a watch is well designed, it doesn't matter what size it is, it'll be comfortable.

I had an Ebel BTR 1911 that was 44.5mm. It was the biggest/heaviest watch I had but it was also the most comfortable because there were no edges, everything had a nice curve to it and it wore it's weight pretty evenly all over. I would go to bed and wake up and not even have marks on my wrist!!!

[kcmo]

I agree, a watch has to be comfortable. But, for me, if a watch is well designed, it doesn't matter what size it is, it'll be comfortable.

I had an Ebel BTR 1911 that was 44.5mm. It was the biggest/heaviest watch I had but it was also the most comfortable because there were no edges, everything had a nice curve to it and it wore it's weight pretty evenly all over. I would go to bed and wake up and not even have marks on my wrist!!!

Wow!

[jrpippen]

I have a 2007 chronometer Air King with the white gold fluted bezel with blue 3 6 9 dial.

It's an absolutely stunning watch, and I had the dial changed By Rolex Uk so I also have the salmon 3,6,9 dial and hand set with it.

I can't fault the watch at all, the only reason I end up wearing my gmt master is I'm always using the bezel for timing this or that. I think the blue dial is awesome.

I'm going to have to sell her in the new year to fund a car purchase so if anyone is interested send me a message.

[GradyPhilpott]

Nice review.

I like the Air-Kings, too.

[jrpippen]

http://i622.photobucket.com/albums/tt308/jrpippen/97c48fa3.jpg

[jrpippen]

Why though have they changed the size of the hands on the modern AK? The date still has the larger hands that reach the minute markers and theblume is so much better. To be honest it's driving me mad on my AK (pictured in the post above) . I'm going to have to get tm changed to the older Style/ date hands. Rolex UK wouldn't do it so I'm going to have to resort to other means!

[ragnar]

@jrpippen - love your AK! Are you saying that you think the hands are too small, and there's not enough luminous paint on them? And that the AK date has bigger hands?

I'm looking at getting an AK in the next 6 months. I really like the dark blue face, as I think it makes the hands easier to read. (I'm used to a Mondaine with big black hands against a white face!).

I've noticed that some Air Kings have the word "precision" on the face rather than "superlative chronometer officially certified". Obviously, the ones labeled "precision" do not have the chronometer certificate. But is there any difference in day to day use? I assume it still keeps good time!

What I'm really looking for is a mechanical automatic that is impervious to water, sand, sweat, and looks good in a simple, understated manner. The AK seems to tick all my boxes, but I'm a little confused by some of the small differences between the models.

Thanks for any advice!

[bradiowausa]

Hey - nice watch. I have a similar one (without a white gold bezel).

[ragnar]

Actually, I've found all my answers from browsing around on this forum!
:cheers: