Rolex: A Timeless Icon In The Watch Business
Think about a luxury watch, and you are most likely picturing a Rolex. That is the impact that the brand has created in the watch industry. Several watchmakers have been inspired by Rolex’s creations, and have adapted their learnings from this iconic Swiss brand. In this article, we take you through the journey of Rolex and share some interesting facts about the brand. Let’s get started.
Legacy of Rolex and its influence in the watch business
Rolex is the creation of two visionaries, Hans Wilsdorf and Alfred Davis. The company was initially founded in London, England but was later moved to La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland. When the company was first established it was known as Wilsdorf and Davis. However, after moving to Switzerland, the founders decided to name it Rolex.
The name Rolex was chosen based on its simplicity of pronunciation across all languages and its ability to fit in any watch dial, due its short name nature. Soon after they started producing watches, the brand earned the Swiss certification of Chronometric Precision in 1910. This certification signified that the watches produced by Rolex showcase exceptional accuracy and quality.
Dominance in the 20th century
Throughout the 20th century, Rolex continued to innovate and push the boundaries of watchmaking technology, producing some of the most remarkable watches. One of their most notable creations was the Oyster watch in 1926. It was the first watch to demonstrate dustproof and waterproof capabilities.
The release of this watch created a revolution in the watch industry, paving the way for other upcoming watchmakers. Another leap in the watch industry was when Rolex introduced the Perpetual Rotor in 1931. This mechanism allowed the movement to be wound by the wearer. It was the first of its kind and was a great stride achieved by the brand.
We cannot get away without mentioning the 1945 Datejust. It was the first watch that showcased the ability to change date on the dial automatically. These 20th century inventions created a major impact on the industry and put Rolex on the map.
Historic collaborations by Rolex
Rolex has committed itself to delivering innovative watches, which is why it has earned a respected position in the watch industry. The brand identity and fame of Rolex has been on the rise, and has been signified based on their incredible collaborations.
The Swiss watchmakers has been known for sponsoring several high profile events and personalities around the world. Following is a list of some of the major events that Rolex has collaborated with.
- Wimbledon Tennis
- Formula 1
- Oscars
- James Bond [Movie]
The collaboration between the brands mentioned above and Rolex, have been for several years. For instance, during a Formula 1 race, you will see the banners of Rolex through the circuit.
Be it in Bahrain or Monaco, Formula 1 has upheld its partnership with Rolex throughout the world. Similarly the Oscars and Wimbledon have also showcased their support with Rolex over the years.
Top Rolex watches
Having taken you through the history and legacy of Rolex, it’s time for us to move on to some of their most predominant watches. Delving into some of their exquisite watches will give you an in-depth look at the reasons why Rolex is highly respected in the watch community.
Following are some of the major highlights related to the top watches produced by Rolex.
- Rolex Submariner
- Rolex Daytona
- Rolex GMT Master
Rolex Submariner
The Submariner was released in 1953, and is perhaps the most well-known model of Rolex. As you can tell from the name already, the watch was specifically produced to aid divers track time. The water resistance capability that the first generation Submariner held was 300 meters.
This was a remarkable achievement by Rolex which inspired many other watchmakers. Ever since then, the latest models of Submariner have become exceptionally popular and have evolved to become even more durable. The Submariner models by Rolex today are more capable than its predecessors
Rolex Daytona
Another extraordinary watch produced by Rolex is the Cosmograph Daytona. The watch was first introduced in 1963, 10 years after the release of the first Submariner. It was a watch that was made for race car drivers.
The design and functionality of the watch was to assist race car drivers to measure time accurately. The Daytona featured the most precise movement that enabled race car drivers to track time, down to a fraction of a second.
Its name, the Daytona, comes from the Daytona International Speedway situated in Florida. This particular track was where Rolex served as the official timekeeper for several years.
Rolex GMT Master
This is perhaps the most recognizable watch in the lineup of Rolex watches. The GMT Master was produced for pilots of Pan Am airlines. The company had reached out to Rolex for them to produce specialized watches that would enable their pilots to view time over two different time zones.
The watch featured distinctive colors on its bezel, which earned it the nickname Pepsi. Its bezel is what enabled pilots to track time over two time zones. Overall, the GMT Master has accumulated tremendous success and has become one of the most sought after watches by Rolex.
Most expensive Rolex ever sold
Paul Newman’s personal Cosmograph Daytona reference no. 6239 was the most expensive Rolex ever to be sold. The watch was gifted by Newman’s wife. He was seen wearing this extraordinary timepiece on several occasions. Post his passing, the watch was put on auction and was sold for a mind bending price tag of $17.75 million.
Rolex had also collaborated with Paul Newman to create a limited range of Daytona watches. These watches were created to commemorate the passion Paul Newman had towards watches, and Rolex in particular.
Watch enthusiasts who have invested in Rolex Daytona Paul Newman edition watches, are likely to gain colossal profits during resale. These watches are highly demanded in the pre-owned market.
Rolex, A brand that defines luxury and craftsmanship
Now that you have an in-depth knowledge of Rolex, you understand the sheer impact that the brand has had on the watch industry. You also understand the significance of the brand and the position it holds in the watch community.
Luxury watches produced by other brands are benchmarked across the standards set by Rolex. Fans of this iconic brand are always on their toes to find out what Rolex has to offer and the innovations that they would bring in their latest watches.