Rolex Air-King vs Tudor Heritage Black Bay
Ref. M126900-0001 vs Ref. 79220R
The Rolex Air-King and Tudor Heritage Black Bay represent one of the most compelling matchups in luxury watches — a sibling rivalry between two brands under the same parent company. With the Rolex Air-King priced at $8,450 and the Tudor Heritage Black Bay at ~$4,800 (market value), the price gap raises a critical question: does the extra investment in the pricier option deliver proportional value? We break down the specs, market performance, and flip potential to help you decide.
Price Comparison
Rolex
Air-King
Tudor
Heritage Black Bay
The Rolex Air-King is priced at $8,450 while the Tudor Heritage Black Bay comes in at ~$4,800 (market value). On the secondary market, the gap narrows: the Rolex Air-King trades around $9,500 and the Tudor Heritage Black Bay around $4,800, a difference of $4,700 favoring the Tudor Heritage Black Bay. Trading at 12% above retail and holding steady, this model holds its value well on the pre-owned market. The Tudor Heritage Black Bay commands an even stronger market premium of +47.7%, with upward momentum. For investors, the Tudor Heritage Black Bay edges ahead with a flip potential score of 7/10 compared to 5/10.
Specifications
| Specification | Rolex Air-King | Tudor Heritage Black Bay |
|---|---|---|
| Case Diameter | 40mm | 41mm |
| Case Thickness | 13.1mm | 12.7mm |
| Case Material | Oystersteel | Stainless steel |
| Bezel | Oystersteel, smooth | Unidirectional rotating bezel with anodized aluminium insert in burgundy red |
| Crystal | Sapphire | Domed sapphire crystal |
| Water Resistance | 100m / 330ft | 200m / 660ft |
| Movement | Rolex calibre 3230 | ETA 2824 |
| Movement Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Power Reserve | 70 hours | 38 hours |
| Bracelet/Strap | Oyster, three-piece solid links | Stainless steel bracelet |
| Clasp | Oysterclasp with Easylink 5mm comfort extension | Folding clasp with safety catch |
| Lug Width | 20mm | 22mm |
Key specification differences stand out between these two: The Tudor Heritage Black Bay leads in water resistance (200m / 660ft vs. 100m / 330ft), and the Rolex Air-King offers longer power reserve at 70 hours, and the Rolex Air-King uses Oystersteel while the Tudor Heritage Black Bay opts for Stainless steel. With 8 notable spec differences in total, the choice depends on which features matter most to your use case.
Value Per Feature
Per millimeter of case diameter, the Rolex Air-King costs $238 versus $117 for the Tudor Heritage Black Bay. For water resistance, the Tudor Heritage Black Bay delivers better value per meter of depth rating. The Tudor Heritage Black Bay offers more power reserve per dollar spent.
Which Should You Buy?
Choose the Rolex Air-King if you value the Rolex heritage. Go with the Tudor Heritage Black Bay if you prioritize a lower entry price, stronger flip potential, better value retention. For pure investment potential, the Tudor Heritage Black Bay has the edge based on current market data.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is more affordable, the Rolex Air-King or the Tudor Heritage Black Bay?
The Tudor Heritage Black Bay is more accessible, priced at ~$4,800 (market value) compared to $8,450.
Which watch is a better investment?
Based on current market data, the Tudor Heritage Black Bay has a higher flip potential score of 7/10, suggesting stronger investment returns. However, watch values can fluctuate based on market conditions.
Which holds its value better on the secondary market?
The Tudor Heritage Black Bay currently trades at 47.7% above retail, indicating strong value retention on the pre-owned market.
How do the Rolex Air-King and Tudor Heritage Black Bay compare in size?
The Rolex Air-King measures 40mm in diameter and 13.1mm thick, while the Tudor Heritage Black Bay is 41mm by 12.7mm. Water resistance differs too: 100m / 330ft versus 200m / 660ft.
What movements do these watches use?
The Rolex Air-King uses the Rolex calibre 3230 with 70 hours power reserve, while the Tudor Heritage Black Bay runs on the ETA 2824 offering 38 hours of power reserve.