ROLEX | AIRKING, REFERENCE 5500 A STAINLESS STEEL WRISTWATCH MADE FOR KUWAIT MILITARY FORCE, CIRCA 1978

Dial: grey Calibre: cal. 1520 automatic, 26 jewelsCase: stainless steel, screw-down case back Case number: 5'232'530 Closure: stainless steel Rolex bracelet and folding clasp  Size: 34 mm diameter, bracelet circumference approximately 186 mm Signed: case, dial and movement

The movement is in working condition at the time of cataloguing. The crystal with minor wear throughout. The dial has a rainbow shine and very minor wear to the luminous plot but it is normal sign of aging, otherwise it is in good overall condition. The bezel and band with minor surface wear throughout, however there is no signs of polishing as the case remains thick and proportionate. The case back with minor signs of wear throughout, and the millings remains sharp. The bracelet is in good overall condition with minor signs of wear and is stamped '78350, 18'. The end links is stamped '557'. Please note that the movement has not been tested for the accuracy of time and may need a service at the buyer's expense. Sotheby's does not guarantee the future working of the movement and we do not guarantee the authenticity of any individual component parts since subsequent repairs and restoration work may have resulted in the replacement of original parts. You are advised that watch straps or bands made of materials derived from endangered or otherwise protected species (i.e. alligator or crocodile) are not sold with the watch and we reserve the right to remove these straps or bands prior to shipping. Furthermore, the watch may not come with its original manufacturers strap or band. Prospective bidders should review the Conditions of Business, Authenticity Guarantee, the Guide for Prospective Buyers, and any Important Notice in the sale catalogue.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. All dimensions in catalogue descriptions are approximate. Condition reports may not specify mechanical replacements or imperfections to the movement, case, dial, pendulum, separate base(s) or dome. Watches in water-resistant cases have been opened to examine movements but no warranties are made that the watches are currently water-resistant. Please note that we do not guarantee the authenticity of any individual component parts, such as wheels, hands, crowns, crystals, screws, bracelets and leather bands, since subsequent repairs and restoration work may have resulted in the replacement of original parts. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue. In particular, please note it is the purchaser's responsibility to comply with any applicable import and export matters, particularly in relation to lots incorporating materials from endangered species.NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

**Please be advised that bands made of materials derived from endangered or otherwise protected species (i.e. alligator and crocodile) are not sold with the watches and are for display purposes only. We reserve the right to remove these bands prior to shipping."

Combining all of the hallmark traits of a Rolex, the reference 5500 is one of the oldest references that Rolex has ever offered. The preset watch also features a rare display on the dial as it features the emblem for the Kuwait Military Force at 6 o'clock. Such dials amongst collectors are known as the "special dials", which are often used as gifts to ambassadors, dignitaries, or staff, as a token of gratitude or respect.