The world of vintage Rolex watches is a fascinating tapestry woven with threads of history, craftsmanship, and often, a touch of mystery. Among the many intriguing pieces that surface from time to time, the Rolex Air-King reference 5500, particularly those with the elusive "Pool Intairdril" dial, occupy a unique and highly coveted space. This article delves into the specifics of a recently listed example – a 1979 Rolex Air-King 5500 "Pool Intairdril" offered at $4,068 – exploring its history, characteristics, and significance within the broader context of Rolex collecting.
The listing itself immediately captures attention. A 1979 Rolex Air-King 5500 in good condition, originating from Finland, boasting the incredibly rare "Pool Intairdril" dial – this is a combination of factors that elevates this watch beyond the typical vintage Air-King. While the term "Pool Intairdril" isn't an official Rolex designation, it's a collector-coined term used to describe a specific type of dial found on certain reference 5500 Air-Kings. These dials are characterized by their unique appearance, often described as having a slightly faded or "pool-like" effect on the color, particularly noticeable around the indices and the Air-King logo. The "Intairdril" element refers to the perceived slightly recessed or inlaid appearance of the markers, adding to the dial's distinctive character.
The Rolex Air-King 5500 itself represents a significant chapter in Rolex's history. Produced from approximately 1957 to 1988, the reference 5500 embodies a period of transition and evolution for the Air-King line. It's a watch that bridges the gap between the earlier, simpler Air-Kings and the more modern iterations. The 5500's relatively straightforward design, featuring a 34mm stainless steel case, makes it a surprisingly versatile and wearable timepiece, even by today's standards. Its understated elegance belies its robust construction and the precision of its automatic movement.
The significance of the "Pool Intairdril" dial lies in its rarity and its contribution to the watch's overall aesthetic. While the exact reasons behind the unique appearance of these dials are not definitively known, several theories exist. Some believe the effect is the result of the aging process, with the dial's original coloring subtly altering over time due to exposure to light and environmental factors. Others suggest that variations in the manufacturing process during the production run might have contributed to the unique characteristics of these dials. Regardless of the exact cause, the "Pool Intairdril" dial is undoubtedly a highly sought-after feature among Rolex collectors.
The $4,068 price point for this particular example is noteworthy. While the standard Rolex Air-King 5500 can be found within a range of prices depending on condition and originality, the inclusion of the "Pool Intairdril" dial significantly increases its value. The rarity of this dial variation, coupled with the generally good condition reported for this 1979 example, justifies the higher price. The watch's origin in Finland adds another layer of interest, potentially offering clues to its history and provenance.
Examining the watch's specifications further reveals its allure:
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