Cnfans Finds Spreadsheet
Founded in 1905 by Hans Wilsdorf and Alfred Davis in London, Rolex has grown to become one of the most iconic and respected watch brands in the world. The company originally started as Wilsdorf & Davis, specializing in the distribution of timepieces. However, it wasn't long before Wilsdorf envisioned a wristwatch that was both elegant and reliable.
In 1908, Wilsdorf registered the trademark "Rolex" and opened an office in La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland. The name "Rolex" was chosen for its brevity, ease of pronunciation in any language, and its distinctive sound. In 1910, Rolex made history by becoming the first wristwatch to receive the Swiss Certificate of Chronometric Precision, awarded by the Official Watch Rating Centre in Bienne.
Rolex has been at the forefront of horological innovation. In 1926, the brand introduced the Oyster, the first waterproof wristwatch. This groundbreaking invention was showcased in 1927 when Mercedes Gleitze swam the English Channel wearing a Rolex Oyster. The watch remained in perfect working condition, solidifying Rolex’s reputation for durability and precision.
Another milestone came in 1931 with the creation of the Perpetual rotor, a self-winding mechanism that revolutionized watchmaking. This invention laid the foundation for the modern automatic watch and remains a cornerstone of Rolex's design philosophy.
Rolex watches have accompanied explorers and adventurers on some of the most challenging expeditions. In 1953, Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay successfully climbed Mount Everest wearing Rolex Oyster Perpetual watches. Similarly, the Rolex Deep Sea Special accompanied the bathyscaphe Trieste on its record-breaking dive to the Mariana Trench in 1960.
Rolex’s commitment to excellence extends beyond its timepieces. The brand has established prestigious awards such as the Rolex Awards for Enterprise, which supports individuals making significant contributions to science, exploration, and environmental conservation. Additionally, Rolex is deeply involved in the arts and sports, sponsoring events like Wimbledon and the Rolex 24 at Daytona.
Today, Rolex continues to set the standard for luxury watches. Each timepiece is meticulously crafted in-house, ensuring unparalleled quality and precision. Models like the Submariner, Daytona, and Datejust have become symbols of success and sophistication. With a rich history of innovation and a relentless pursuit of perfection, Rolex remains a symbol of timeless elegance and enduring performance.
From its humble beginnings to its status as a global icon, Rolex’s story is one of passion, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. The brand’s legacy continues to inspire watch enthusiasts and collectors worldwide, proving that true craftsmanship never goes out of style.