Rolex Air-King Automatic White Dial Stainless Steel Watch with Fluted Bezel (114234)
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- R 149,999
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This certified pre-owned Rolex Air-King ref. 114234 exemplifies the unadorned elegance that has defined Rolex's entry-level sport collection since 1945. Housed within a compact 34mm Oyster case machined from 904L stainless steel, the watch presents a crisp white dial adorned with bold Arabic numerals at 3, 6, and 9 o'clock, paired with baton indices elsewhere. The signature fluted white gold bezel encircles the dial, catching light with every wrist turn and lending this modest-diameter timepiece a refined presence that transcends fleeting trends. Despite its restrained proportions, the Air-King wears comfortably on modern wrists thanks to its well-balanced lugs and the substantial heft of the three-link Oyster bracelet.
At the heart of this Oyster Perpetual lies Rolex's calibre 3130, a self-winding mechanical movement built to COSC chronometer standards. The perpetual rotor winds the mainspring bidirectionally, delivering approximately 48 hours of autonomous running once fully wound. Waterproof to 100 metres courtesy of the screw-down crown and case-back, this Air-King remains protected during daily wear, though it lacks the Submariner's dive-rated credentials. The sapphire crystal is scratch-resistant, preserving dial legibility for decades, while the Oyster bracelet's Oysterclasp ensures secure, toolless adjustment on the wrist. This particular example arrives in pre-owned condition, having been inspected and authenticated by the team at Cassims & Co. prior to sale.
The Air-King occupies a unique niche within Rolex's catalogue — a no-nonsense tool watch that prioritises clarity and reliability over complications or precious metals. Its 34mm case diameter may appear modest against today's oversized chronographs, yet this size remains truer to Rolex's mid-century design language and wears elegantly under a shirt cuff. The white dial offers superior legibility in all lighting conditions, while the applied Arabic numerals provide a distinctive aesthetic that differentiates the Air-King from the simpler Oyster Perpetual line. For collectors seeking an accessible entry point into mechanical Rolex ownership, or those who appreciate vintage-inspired proportions, this reference strikes an ideal balance between historical authenticity and modern reliability.
Browse our full range of authenticated timepieces in the Certified Pre-Owned watch collection, or visit us at our Mall of the South boutique to experience this Air-King in person. Our watch servicing and repairs team is always available to maintain your timepiece long after purchase, ensuring this Rolex continues to perform to factory specifications for years to come.
Specifications
- Brand: Rolex
- Model: Air-King
- Reference Number: 114234
- Condition: Certified Pre-Owned
- Case Shape: Round
- Case Diameter: 34mm
- Case Material: 904L Stainless Steel
- Bezel: Fluted White Gold
- Dial Colour: White
- Dial Markers: Arabic Numerals (3, 6, 9) with Baton Indices
- Crystal: Scratch-Resistant Sapphire
- Movement: Rolex Calibre 3130 Automatic (Self-Winding)
- Chronometer: COSC Certified
- Power Reserve: Approximately 48 Hours
- Water Resistance: 100 Metres
- Band Material: Stainless Steel Oyster Bracelet
- Clasp: Oysterclasp Folding Safety Clasp
- Functions: Hours, Minutes, Seconds
FAQ
Q: Is this watch suitable for smaller wrists?
A: Yes — the 34mm case diameter makes this Air-King particularly well-suited to slimmer wrists or those who prefer vintage-inspired proportions. The Oyster bracelet can be adjusted via the Oysterclasp to ensure a secure, comfortable fit.
Q: What does 'COSC Certified' mean?
A: COSC (Contrôle Officiel Suisse des Chronomètres) certification confirms that this movement has been independently tested for accuracy over 15 days and 5 positions. It guarantees timekeeping precision within -4/+6 seconds per day, meeting Switzerland's official chronometer standard.
Q: Can I wear this watch while swimming?
A: The 100-metre water resistance rating permits swimming and snorkelling, though this Air-King is not a dedicated dive watch. Avoid operating the crown underwater, and ensure the crown is fully screwed down before any water exposure.
Q: How often does the automatic movement need servicing?
A: Rolex recommends servicing every 10 years under normal wearing conditions. Our watch servicing team can assess the movement's current condition and perform a full overhaul when required, restoring factory-level performance.
Q: Does this pre-owned watch come with original box and papers?
A: Inclusion of original accessories varies by piece. Contact our team directly to confirm what accompanies this specific Air-King — we are transparent about the full package included with every pre-owned timepiece.
Q: What is the difference between this Air-King and the current 40mm model?
A: The ref. 114234 represents the discontinued 34mm generation with a classic white dial and fluted bezel. The current 40mm Air-King (ref. 126900) features a black dial with distinctive green and yellow branding, larger case, and updated calibre 3230 movement — two distinct design philosophies within the same lineage.
Q: Can the bracelet be resized or replaced?
A: Yes — the Oyster bracelet uses removable links for precise sizing. Our team can adjust the fit at the time of purchase or during any subsequent visit to our boutique. Replacement straps or bracelets can also be sourced if desired.
Warranty
- This pre-owned Rolex Air-King is backed by Cassims & Co.'s 6-month dealer warranty, covering the watch mechanicals only, from the date of purchase.
- This is a dealer warranty, not a manufacturer warranty, and does not cover cosmetic wear, battery (not applicable to automatic watches), strap or bracelet wear, or water damage resulting from misuse.
- Any remaining original manufacturer warranty, where applicable and transferable, applies in addition to this cover.
- The warranty covers mechanical defects arising from normal use — impacts, drops, unauthorised modifications, or service by non-approved technicians will void coverage.
- Should any mechanical issue arise during the warranty period, contact our team immediately to arrange an assessment — we will repair or replace faulty components at no charge where the claim is valid.
- Routine maintenance such as regulation, cleaning, or gasket replacement after the warranty period can be performed by our in-house watch servicing team at standard rates.
Care Guide
- Wipe the case and bracelet regularly with a soft, lint-free cloth to remove perspiration, dust, and oils that accumulate during daily wear.
- Rinse the watch under lukewarm tap water after exposure to saltwater or chlorinated pools, ensuring the crown is fully screwed down beforehand.
- Avoid exposing the watch to extreme temperature fluctuations, strong magnetic fields (speakers, MRI machines), or harsh chemicals (solvents, cleaning agents).
- Always screw the crown down firmly after setting the time or date — this preserves the Oyster case's waterproof integrity.
- Store the watch on a flat surface or in a watch box when not in use. If worn infrequently, the automatic movement will stop after approximately 48 hours; simply wind it manually (20-30 turns) and reset the time before wearing again.
- Have the watch serviced every 10 years by a qualified watchmaker to maintain optimal performance — our servicing team can handle all mechanical overhauls, gasket replacements, and pressure testing.
- Avoid impacts or drops — while Rolex movements are shock-resistant, severe knocks can damage the balance staff or hairspring.
- Do not operate the crown or any pushers while the watch is submerged, as this compromises water resistance and may allow moisture ingress.