Rubber B has become well-known as a highly respected crafter of custom rubber watch bands for timepieces from some of the most respected watchmakers in the field, including such brands as Patek Philippe, IWC, and Breitling. Rubber B has a variety of straps in different colors and styles in our product portfolio that are appropriate for both business/formal wear and more casual situations as well.
The Rolex Air King is one of the more underappreciated watch lines in Rolex’s catalog. Despite the fact that it has been around for the better part of a century, the horological press does not spend a lot of time writing about this particular timepiece.
In honor of the fact that a new version of the Rolex Air King, the Rolex Air King 126900, was released this year, we thought it would be a good time to take a closer look at this new watch and its direct predecessor. Below, we will compare their technical specifications, as well as their design style.
What Are The Technical Specifications of the Rolex Air King 126900?
The Rolex Air King 126900 measures 40mm, which is an industry-standard size for a men’s luxury watch. It is powered by the 3230 caliber, which is one of Rolex’s newest calibers. As always, all of Rolex’s calibers are produced in-house. It has a power reserve of 70 hours, which is impressive for a watch that is not a dive watch.
This watch is also waterproof for up to 330 feet, which is to be expected for a luxury timepiece.
How Does the Rolex Air King 126900 Fare Aesthetically?
One of the reasons that the Rolex Air King 126900 was not announced with much fanfare is that, even by Rolex standards, this is not a showy watch. Its lack of ostentatious clearly shows its original history, which was more of a tool watch.
The dial is a solid, deep black with large, easy-to-read white numbers and white and green text. This watch is all functional and not much in the way of form. That isn’t to say that it isn’t nice to look at – just that it’s not as flashy as many of the other pieces that Rolex is known for. The elegance and craftsmanship of the brand are still clearly on display here.
What Are The Technical Specifications of the Rolex Air King 116900?
The Rolex Air King 116900 also measures 40mm, which is the same as its successor. However, the size of the watch, from a technical standpoint, is about the only thing the two iterations have in common with one another.
The older model of this watch is powered by the 3131 caliber, which only has a power reserve of 48 hours. This clear diminishment in power reserve tells us that we are dealing with an older model of Rolex watch. It does maintain the same water resistance though, at 330 feet.
How Does the Rolex Air King 116900 Rate in Terms of Design?
In terms of the look of the watch, both of these models are visually identical. The dial of the newer model is clearly inspired by the older version. The same austere black dial, and the same large lettering and numbers, remain prominently featured on the face of the watch.
The Oystersteel® that the watch is made from pairs perfectly with the dial. Both form and function imply that this watch is all business. However, it can be worn at both formal and casual events, which makes it handy to have in one’s collection.
Similarities: Air-King 126900 vs 1169000
The Air-King 126900 vs 116900 both have 40mm Oyster cases with Twinlock screw-down crowns and are water-resistant to 100 meters (330 feet). Smooth bezels, sapphire crystals, and screw-down case-backs are among the features of the cases. Furthermore, both models have black dials with a yellow and green Rolex logo, a green seconds hand, a Mercedes handset, and a mix of hour and minute markers.
The new ref. 126900 Air-King, like the predecessor ref. 116900, is outfitted with a sporty three-link Oyster bracelet. Finally, both generations of Rolex Air-Kings in 40mm are automatic timepieces.
Differences: Air-King 126900 vs 1169000
The case, dial, and bracelet are the main design differences between the ref. 116900 and ref. 126900. The newer model has crown guards on the subject, lume-coated hour markers on the dial, a “0” at five minutes, wider links on the bracelet, and an improved clasp compared to the previous model.
These design changes not only make the Air-King 126900 look more sporty than the original 116900, but they also make the newer model appear slightly larger on the wrist. The other significant difference is found within the case. While the Air-King 116900 is powered by the Caliber 3131 and has a 48-hour power reserve, the new Air-King 126900 is powered by the Caliber 3230 and has a 70-hour power reserve.
Ref. 116900 Rolex Air-King 40mm (pre-2022 models) Watch strap Collections By Rubber B
Solid:
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Orange Rubber Strap for Rolex Air-King 116900 – Classic Series$220.00
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Blue Rubber Strap for Rolex Air-King 116900 – Classic Series$220.00
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Green Rubber Strap for Rolex Air-King 116900 – Classic Series$220.00
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White Rubber Strap for Rolex Air-King 116900 – Classic Series$220.00
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Black Rubber Strap for Rolex Air-King 116900 – Classic Series$220.00
Vulchromatic:
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White with Green Rubber Strap for Rolex Air-King 116900 – Classic Series VulChromatic$250.00
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Black with Orange Rubber Strap for Rolex Air-King 116900 – Classic Series VulChromatic$250.00
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Black with Blue Rubber Strap for Rolex Air-King 116900 – Classic Series VulChromatic$250.00
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Black with Green Rubber Strap for Rolex Air-King 116900 – Classic Series VulChromatic$250.00
Rubber Straps for 126900 vs 116900 Watch Bands
When comparing Rubber Straps for the Rolex Air-King 126900 and its predecessor, the 116900, discerning enthusiasts will find a nuanced evolution in design and functionality. Rubber B’s meticulously crafted straps for the 116900 showcase a commitment to seamless integration and unparalleled comfort. However, the innovation doesn’t stop there. The Rubber Straps tailored for the Air-King 126900 elevate the wearer’s experience further, with refined details and a perfect blend of durability and flexibility. As the industry leader in luxury watch accessories, Rubber B continues to set the standard for excellence, providing watch aficionados with the perfect complement to their cherished timepieces. Whether opting for the classic elegance of the 116900 or embracing the contemporary allure of the 126900, Rubber B ensures that each strap is a testament to precision, sophistication, and a timeless commitment to quality.
Rubber B Straps for Rolex Air King 126900:
the choice between Rubber Straps for the Rolex Air-King 116900 and the latest Air-King 126900 goes beyond a mere accessory decision; it’s a journey through the evolution of luxury watch craftsmanship. Rubber B, as the pioneering force in integrated rubber straps, continues to redefine standards in design, comfort, and functionality. Whether opting for the classic charm of the 116900 or embracing the contemporary sophistication of the 126900, each Rubber Strap is a testament to the brand’s unwavering commitment to excellence. Elevate your Rolex experience with Rubber B, where innovation meets tradition, and luxury finds its perfect match.
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