The Rolex Air-King, a time-only watch embodying understated elegance and robust reliability, is a favorite among those who appreciate classic design and impeccable functionality. Whether you've recently acquired a newer reference 116900 or own a vintage model produced before 2016, setting the time is a straightforward process. This guide will walk you through the steps, ensuring you can accurately adjust your Air-King to keep perfect time. We'll also delve into some resources for finding your own Air-King, should you be inspired to add this iconic timepiece to your collection.
Setting the Time on Your Rolex Air-King:
The Air-King's simplicity extends to its time-setting mechanism. Unlike some more complicated Rolex models, it lacks additional functions like a date window or chronograph, making the process exceptionally easy. Here's how to do it:
1. Identify the Crown: Locate the winding crown on the right-hand side of your watch case. It's typically slightly larger than the other buttons or pushers, if present on other Rolex models.
2. Unscrew the Crown (if applicable): Depending on your Air-King's reference and age, the crown may be screw-down. This means you'll need to unscrew it gently by turning it counter-clockwise until you feel it release. Don't force it; if it feels resistant, stop and check your technique. Some older models may have a push-pull crown, meaning you simply pull it out.
3. Pull Out the Crown: Once the crown is unscrewed (if applicable), gently pull it out. There are typically two or three positions for the crown. For setting the time, you'll need to pull it out to the first position (usually a slight pull). Pulling it further will allow you to wind the watch (a subject we'll cover later).
4. Setting the Time: With the crown in the first position, turn it clockwise to advance the hands. Turn it counter-clockwise to move the hands backward. Take your time and adjust the time precisely to your desired setting.
5. Push the Crown Back In: Once the time is correctly set, gently push the crown back into its original position. If your crown is screw-down, carefully screw it back in clockwise until it's fully tightened. Again, avoid forcing it. A properly tightened crown ensures water resistance.
Winding Your Rolex Air-King:
While the Air-King is a self-winding watch, meaning it's powered by the movement of your wrist, you may occasionally need to wind it manually, especially if it hasn't been worn for a while. This is particularly true for older models.
1. Pull Out the Crown Fully: Pull the crown out to its second position (a firmer pull than for setting the time).
2. Wind the Watch: Turn the crown clockwise. You'll feel a slight resistance as the mainspring winds. Don't overwind; once you feel the resistance increase significantly, stop winding. Overwinding can damage the movement.
3. Push the Crown Back In: Once you've wound the watch, gently push the crown back into its original position and screw it down if necessary.
Troubleshooting:
If you encounter any issues setting your Air-King, such as the hands not moving smoothly or the crown feeling stiff, it's crucial to seek professional help from an authorized Rolex service center. Attempting to fix the problem yourself could cause further damage.
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