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 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 | About us
Perfect for boardroom meetings and evening dinners, this vintage Rolex Air-King Ref. 14000 brings understated polish with its blue dial, smooth bezel and 34mm stainless steel case on an Oyster bracelet. Powered by an automatic movement, it slips neatly under a cuff and elevates smart-casual looks with timeless ease.
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: What is the Rolex Air-King Ref. 14000 34mm (1997)? A: It’s a classic, Swiss‑made, time‑only Oyster Perpetual Air‑King with a 34mm stainless steel case, smooth bezel, and blue dial featuring baton and Arabic hour markers. It comes on a stainless steel Oyster bracelet and is powered by an automatic self‑winding movement.
Q: Which movement does this 1997 Air‑King use? A: Most Rolex Air‑King Ref. 14000 watches from the 1990s house the Rolex Calibre 3000 automatic movement (time‑only). We can confirm the exact calibre in this specific piece on request. Typical power reserve for this era is around 40–42 hours, and many examples do not feature hacking seconds (the second hand may not stop when setting the time).
Q: Does it have a sapphire crystal and screw‑down crown? A: Yes. Ref. 14000 typically features a scratch‑resistant sapphire crystal and Rolex’s screw‑down crown within the Oyster case, contributing to durability and everyday wearability.
Q: Is it water‑resistant and can I swim with it? A: The Oyster case was originally rated to 100 metres, but water resistance on vintage watches is not guaranteed without recent servicing and pressure testing. We recommend avoiding swimming or showering unless the seals have been replaced and the watch has passed a pressure test by an authorised watchmaker. Always ensure the crown is fully screwed down before any exposure to moisture.
Q: How do I wind and set the time? A: Unscrew the crown anti‑clockwise. Position 1: manual wind (about 20–40 turns if the watch has stopped). Position 2: set the time by turning the hands. Many 14000 examples do not have hacking seconds, so the second hand may continue to move when setting. After setting, push the crown in and screw it down firmly to maintain water resistance.
Q: Will the 34mm size suit my wrist, and is it unisex? A: The 34mm case offers a refined, mid‑size presence that suits small to medium wrists and also wears well on larger wrists seeking a vintage‑proportion look. While historically marketed to men, it’s widely worn unisex today—fit depends on personal style and wrist shape.
Q: What wrist size will this bracelet fit, and can it be resized or swapped for a strap? A: This piece fits a wrist up to approximately 16.5 cm as listed. We can size the bracelet for you, and additional links may be sourced subject to availability. Many Air‑King 14000 models use a 19mm lug width, so straps should be chosen in the correct size; we’re happy to advise on suitable strap options.
Q: What accuracy and service interval should I expect? A: A well‑maintained vintage Rolex should keep good time, but performance varies with age and service history. A routine service every 5–10 years is generally recommended, or sooner if you notice timekeeping issues, reduced power reserve, condensation, or compromised water resistance. Keep the watch away from strong magnets and have it checked if it runs noticeably fast/slow.
Q: How can I verify the year, reference and lume details? A: The reference and serial are typically engraved between the lugs (bracelet removal required). A “U”‑prefix serial corresponds to around 1997. Dials from this period often use tritium lume (frequently marked “T Swiss Made T”), which can age to a warm patina and is generally less bright than modern Super‑LumiNova. We can confirm the specific dial and lume details for this watch on request.
Q: What is included (box/papers), and how do you guarantee authenticity? A: This watch is delivered with a box as stated in the listing; original papers are included only if specified. A Retro Tale specialises in authentic luxury vintage and thoroughly inspects and authenticates every item. All our watches come with a 12‑month mechanical guarantee; we’re happy to share additional photos or details upon 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 is registered for UK VAT. All prices on the website include shipping, customs, and VAT for deliveries to the UK.
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.
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.
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.
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.
/ Rolex
/ Watches
/ Mens watches
/ Oyster Perpetual
4 664 £
• Stainless steel case and Oyster bracelet
• Blue dial with baton and Arabic numeral hour markers
• Smooth bezel
• Automatic movement
• 34mm case
• Fold-over clasp
• Vintage
