We make luxury accessible for all. We are proud to offer only the finest certified vintage and second-hand fashion accessories from the world's most exclusive fashion houses. All products meet our strict standard of excellence.
We make luxury accessible for all. We are proud to offer only the finest certified vintage and second-hand fashion accessories from the world's most exclusive fashion houses. All products meet our strict standard of excellence.We make luxury accessible for all. We are proud to offer only the finest certified vintage and second-hand fashion accessories from the world's most exclusive fashion houses. All products meet our strict standard of excellence.
Perfect for smart office days, dinner reservations, and weekend city breaks, this vintage Rolex Air‑King adds effortless refinement. Its versatile 34mm stainless steel profile and understated grey dial complement tailoring as well as elevated casual looks.
Please note that the majority of our items are vintage and therefore have tales to tell unless stated otherwise. Therefore, please look at pictures, descriptions and measurements provided as they give you the best idea of the story this item has to tell.
* Please note that when you buy a vintage product, the dimensions may vary slightly from a new one depending on previous care and storage.
Q: How does a 34 mm Rolex wear, and is it unisex? A: The 34 mm Oyster case wears compact and elegant with vintage proportions, suiting many wrist sizes and styles. On most wrists it feels slimmer than modern sports models, making it a versatile unisex choice. We recommend checking our listed measurements and your wrist size for the best sense of scale.
Q: What movement is inside the Air‑King ref. 5500, and is it automatic? A: Most Air‑King 5500 watches from this era are fitted with Rolex’s self‑winding calibre 1520 family and have a no‑date “Precision” dial. Like other Oyster Perpetual models, it can also be wound by hand via the screw‑down crown. As with any vintage piece, exact calibre can vary by year and production batch.
Q: Can I swim or shower with this vintage Air‑King? A: We do not recommend swimming or showering with vintage pieces. Although the Oyster case was originally rated for water resistance, seals and gaskets age over time and water resistance is not guaranteed without a recent pressure test after servicing. Keep the watch dry and avoid moisture exposure.
Q: What type of crystal does this watch have and how should I handle scratches? A: Ref. 5500 models were delivered with an acrylic (plexiglass) crystal. Light surface marks on acrylic can often be reduced with a dedicated acrylic polish; deeper scratches or cracks should be addressed by a professional watchmaker who can polish or replace the crystal as appropriate.
Q: What is the lug width and can I change straps? A: The Air‑King 5500 uses a 19 mm lug width. It will accept most 19 mm leather or fabric straps in addition to its Oyster bracelet. Always use correctly sized spring bars and take care to protect the lugs when changing straps.
Q: How accurate should a vintage Air‑King be? A: Accuracy varies with age and service history. A recently serviced calibre from this era typically keeps reliable everyday time, but tolerances may not match modern chronometer standards. If you notice meaningful drift, a routine service and regulation will usually restore performance.
Q: How often should I service this watch? A: For vintage Rolex models, a 5–7 year interval is a sensible rule of thumb, or sooner if there are signs of moisture, magnetism, or timing issues. Modern Rolex guidance of approximately every 10 years applies mainly to newer calibres; older watches benefit from more frequent care due to ageing lubricants and seals.
Q: What wrist size will the bracelet fit, and can it be adjusted? A: As listed, the Oyster bracelet currently fits up to an 18.5 cm wrist. It can be sized down by removing links. If your wrist is larger, sourcing period‑correct extra links may be possible through specialists; please contact us and we’ll be happy to advise on options.
Q: What is included with this piece? A: Everything included is listed under product information. This example is sold without additional items such as a box or papers unless stated there.
Q: How does A Retro Tale authenticate this watch? A: Every item is examined by our in‑house experts using multi‑point checks of case and bracelet construction, dial and handset, engravings, movement, and period‑correct details. We stand behind the authenticity of all pieces we sell and can provide further product information on request.
SHIPPING
All orders are insured and trackable. Once your shipment has been issued, a link to our Track & Trace service will be provided where you can track your shipment and check delivery status online.
A Retro Tale offers free shipping to most EU countries. Click here to see the full list of eligible countries.
The shipping fee will be clearly shown during the checkout process. In some cases—such as during promotions or depending on your delivery location—shipping costs may vary. If no special rates apply, the standard international shipping fee of $49 will be charged.
We ship all orders from Sweden. Depending on your country’s import regulations, your order may be subject to customs duties, VAT, GST, or other local taxes upon arrival.
These charges are typically collected by the shipping carrier at the time of delivery and are not included in the product price.
We offer secure shipping via DHL and UPS with the following delivery time:
Outside Europe: 3-6 business days.
If you have any questions about customs, duties, or taxes, feel free to contact our customer service team — we’re happy to help!
RETURNS
A Retro Tale offers 14 days return policy upon receipt of your order.
In order to request a return, please email [email protected] with your order number and state ”return request” in your email. From there, our Customer Support will confirm that your return request has been approved and further instructions will be provided by email.
Please note that the return shipping fee is covered by the returnee and all return shippings to A Retro Tale must be traceable. Thus, please retain your receipt of shipping and tracking number until your return has been completed and you have received your refund.
Please allow up to 10 business days for your return to be completed from the return shipping date as shipping time might vary depending on shipping country and shipping provider.
AUTHENTICITY GUARANTEED
A Retro Tale specialises in vintage and pre-owned goods from the world's most loved fashion houses. We guarantee that all of our products are 100 percent authentic. Every item sold on our site undergoes a rigorous authentication process, in which our experts delve deep into the heritage of a brand via its craftsmanship techniques. This requires a rigorous and methodical process.
For us, authentication is about more than expertise; it offers a fascinating insight into the history of fashion and the craftsmanship involved in production.
/ Rolex
/ Watches
/ Mens watches
• 34mm stainless steel case
• Grey 'Precision' dial
• Smooth stainless steel bezel
• Stainless steel Oyster bracelet with a folding clasp
• Automatic movement
• Vintage
