What's wrong with this Air King 5500?

watchthirst · Apr 19, 2016

I've purchased this watch about 2 years ago as i basically got it for free. I have never worn it as its too small for my taste. Today as I was inspecting the movement in preparation to sell, I realized that the movement is a 1530.

Now I may be completely wrong, but to my knowledge all 5500 air kings with a "precision" dial had a 1520 movement and all 5500 air kings with a "super precision" dial had the 1530 movement.

What do you guys think? Am on point here or don't have my facts straight? Could this be a super precision 5500 1530 with a dial replacement from a precision?

Would love to hear everyones opinions on this.

CdnWatchDoc · Apr 19, 2016

I found a bit of information that may help you:
http://www.superlativetime.com/identification-of-rolex-calibres
They do state that sometimes a replacement bridge is used when parts are harder to find. And it looks like the 1520 is originally derived from the 1530. The balance wheel in your watch is consistent with the 1530 movement. Is this a replacement? I don't know that bit of info; this could have been an earlier model that used the 1530 which was available.
My Air King dates from 1981 and has a 1520 movement.

CdnWatchDoc · Apr 19, 2016

Another very informative link:
http://www.network54.com/Forum/207593/thread/1303942446/History+of+1530+movement-
Essentially, the 1530s were the earliest version of the 15xx movements, meant to be a new line. These were used in many models (including the 5508 and 5510 subs, as well as the occasional 5513. Love the analogy to Ford motors discussed in the link!
The presence of that movement dates your watch as early as 1959 up to mid '70s. Certainly not a drawback!
Would be interested if you are serious about selling...😁

watchthirst · Apr 19, 2016

Awesome, that was definitely super informative and helpful. I am ready to sell as early as yesterday. 😀
Shoot me an email: [email protected]

What's wrong with this Air King 5500?

watchthirst

CdnWatchDoc

CdnWatchDoc

watchthirst

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