A History Of Rolex Watches

The Rolex watch company has a rich and fascinating history. It was founded in 1905 by Hans Wilsdorf and Alfred Davis in London, England. Originally known as “Wilsdorf and Davis,” the company specialized in the distribution of timepieces, importing Swiss movements and placing them in watch cases made by other manufacturers.

In 1908, Wilsdorf registered the trademark “Rolex” and opened an office in La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland, primarily to avoid high import duties on watch movements. The name “Rolex” is said to have been chosen for its shortness, ease of pronunciation in different languages, and its ability to be easily engraved on watch movements and dials.

In the early years, Rolex focused on producing accurate and reliable wristwatches. They quickly gained a reputation for innovation and precision. In 1910, a Rolex watch became the first wristwatch in the world to receive the Swiss Certificate of Chronometric Precision, granted by the Official Watch Rating Centre in Bienne.

One of the most significant achievements for Rolex came in 1926 when they introduced the world’s first waterproof wristwatch, the Rolex Oyster. This innovation was made possible by the invention of a hermetically sealed case with a screw-down crown, ensuring water resistance and protection for the movement.

In 1931, Rolex unveiled another groundbreaking invention, the self-winding mechanism, known as the “Perpetual” rotor. This automatic winding system used the natural motion of the wearer’s wrist to wind the watch, eliminating the need for manual winding.

Throughout the 20th century, Rolex continued to innovate and establish itself as a leading luxury watch brand. They introduced numerous iconic models, such as the Datejust in 1945, the Submariner in 1953, and the GMT-Master in 1955, among others. These watches became synonymous with precision, durability, and timeless design.

Rolex’s association with exploration and sports also contributed to its reputation. In 1927, Mercedes Gleitze swam across the English Channel wearing a Rolex Oyster, demonstrating its waterproofness. Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay wore Rolex watches when they reached the summit of Mount Everest in 1953.

In the following decades, Rolex continued to innovate with advancements like the introduction of the Day-Date in 1956, which displayed both the date and the day of the week, and the Cosmograph Daytona in 1963, designed for professional racing drivers.

Today, Rolex remains one of the most renowned and prestigious watch brands globally. Their watches are highly sought after for their craftsmanship, reliability, and enduring style. The company continues to introduce new models and technological advancements while upholding its tradition of excellence and luxury.