Rolex Explorer Air-King 5701

The Rolex Explorer Air‑King ref. 5701 was produced in small numbers between 1962 and 1969 and represents a rare convergence of the Air‑King Date and Explorer design codes. Based on the standard Air‑King Date 5701, this reference used the same 34 mm stainless steel case with an 18k yellow gold fluted bezel and a Cyclops-equipped acrylic crystal over the date window. It was powered by either the Rolex Caliber 1520, 1530, or later 1525, delivering reliable automatic performance with a 42-hour power reserve. The case measured around 11–12 mm thick, with a 42 mm lug-to-lug distance and 19 mm lug width. This unusual variant came fitted with a black dial featuring the Explorer-style 3-6-9 numerals, luminous hour markers, and often gilt text, sometimes paired with Mercedes hands—though examples vary. These watches were likely region-specific issues, with most appearing in the Canadian market and never formally cataloged by Rolex. The Explorer Air‑King 5701 is extremely rare, blending the utility of a date function with the rugged appeal of the Explorer aesthetic in a compact format, making it a hidden gem among vintage Rolex collectors.