The Rolex 5700. The name itself evokes a sense of mystery and intrigue for watch enthusiasts. Unlike many Rolex models boasting consistent production and readily available information, the 5700 exists in a realm of vintage exclusivity. Officially discontinued, it’s a model shrouded in a certain amount of obscurity, making each example a highly sought-after piece of horological history. This article aims to illuminate the details surrounding the Rolex 5700, exploring its place within the Rolex lineage, focusing on its connection to the Air King line, examining available sales data, and ultimately understanding what makes it such a desirable collectible today.
The immediate challenge when discussing the Rolex 5700 is its lack of official, centralized documentation. Rolex, famously secretive about its production history, rarely provides extensive details on discontinued models. Therefore, much of our understanding relies on piecing together information from various sources: auction listings, private sales, and the collective knowledge of seasoned watch collectors. This lack of official information contributes to the model’s allure, transforming it from a simple timepiece into a fascinating puzzle for enthusiasts to unravel.
Our initial research indicates that the reference number 5700 primarily applies to a range of Rolex Air-King Date models produced in the late 1960s and early 1970s. The term "Rolex 5700" isn't a specific model designation in the way that, say, "Submariner 16610" is. Instead, it's a shorthand used by collectors and dealers to refer to a group of watches sharing similar characteristics, primarily the Air-King Date functionality and a specific case design produced during a particular era. This ambiguity highlights the importance of careful examination when considering a purported "Rolex 5700" for purchase.
Connecting the 5700 to the Rolex Air-King Lineage:
Understanding the Rolex 5700 requires a deeper understanding of its place within the broader Air-King family. The Air-King, first introduced in 1945, has a rich history as a more accessible, everyday Rolex. It's known for its robust construction, reliable performance, and typically more understated aesthetic compared to the brand's more flamboyant sports models. The Air-King Date, a later evolution of the line, added a date complication to the already practical design. It's within this lineage that the reference numbers associated with the 5700 likely emerged.
The watches identified as "Rolex 5700" appear to be variations of the Air-King Date, sharing common features such as:
* Case Size: Typically around 34mm, reflecting the smaller case sizes prevalent in men's watches of that era.
* Movement: Likely powered by a caliber from the Rolex 1500 series, known for their reliability and accuracy. Specific movement details would vary depending on the exact production year within the range.
* Dial: The dials exhibited a variety of styles, though silver dials were common, often with applied indices and hands. Variations in dial color, hand style, and date window placement are to be expected due to the age and potential for minor manufacturing changes over the production period.
* Bracelet/Strap: These watches were likely originally fitted with either a Rolex Oyster bracelet or a leather strap. The current bracelet or strap on a vintage example may not be original.
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