Rolex is more than just a watch brand; it’s a name that resonates with luxury, innovation, and timeless design. Known worldwide, Rolex has crafted its reputation over more than a century by setting standards in precision, quality, and prestige. Today, Rolex watches are symbols of success, adventure, and excellence. At Le Temps, we proudly showcase Rolex as one of our premier brands, offering you a chance to own a piece of horological history.
The Beginnings of Rolex
Founding Year and Place
Rolex was founded in 1905 in London, England by Hans Wilsdorf and Alfred Davis. The original company was named Wilsdorf & Davis, and it started as a watch import business. Wilsdorf and Davis focused on importing Swiss movements, known for their accuracy, and placing them in high-quality watch cases. These watches were then sold to British jewelers who branded them with their own names.
However, Hans Wilsdorf had a bigger vision. He dreamed of creating a brand that was synonymous with precision and elegance. He wanted a name that would be easy to say and remember, and one that looked good on the face of a watch. In 1908, he came up with the name “Rolex.” Wilsdorf later explained that he wanted the name to be short and memorable, a word that would sound the same in any language. This simplicity and elegance captured the spirit of the brand and made it instantly recognizable.
Moving to Switzerland – The Heart of Watchmaking
In 1919, Rolex moved its headquarters from London to Geneva, Switzerland, known as the center of high-quality watchmaking. This relocation helped Rolex to source the best materials, access advanced watchmaking expertise, and strengthen its reputation as a Swiss brand of excellence.
Why Rolex Stands Out
Rolex is celebrated for many reasons, from its high standards to its pioneering spirit. Some key qualities that set Rolex apart include:
- Precision: Rolex’s dedication to accuracy made it a leader in chronometry, the science of measuring time precisely.
- Innovation: Rolex was among the first brands to introduce waterproof watches and self-winding mechanisms, revolutionizing the watch industry.
- Durability: Rolex watches are built to withstand extreme conditions, from deep-sea diving to the highest mountains.
These qualities have made Rolex a favorite among adventurers, athletes, and world leaders. Today, Rolex continues to be a symbol of reliability and elegance, combining tradition with groundbreaking technology.
The Rolex Oyster – A Waterproof First
In 1926, Rolex introduced the Oyster, the world’s first waterproof wristwatch. This groundbreaking design changed watchmaking forever, setting Rolex apart as an innovator. The Oyster case was sealed tight, protecting the movement from dust, water, and shocks. This feature became a hallmark of Rolex watches, providing reliability and durability in any environment.
The following year, to prove the Oyster’s waterproof abilities, Rolex arranged for the watch to be worn by Mercedes Gleitze, who attempted to swim across the English Channel. After over 10 hours in cold water, the Oyster emerged unharmed, still ticking with perfect accuracy. This demonstration gained global attention, making Rolex a trusted name in durability.
Iconic Models and Collections
Over the decades, Rolex introduced models that became instant classics, each with a unique purpose and design:
- Submariner: Launched in 1953, the Submariner was the first wristwatch water-resistant to 100 meters, making it a favorite among divers and water sports enthusiasts.
- Explorer: Also launched in 1953, the Explorer was designed for adventurers and mountaineers. It was worn by Sir Edmund Hillary’s team during the first ascent of Mount Everest.
- Day-Date: Introduced in 1956, the Day-Date was the first wristwatch to display both the date and the day of the week in full on the dial, adding a new level of functionality.
Each Rolex model is carefully crafted for specific lifestyles and pursuits, from diving to mountaineering to formal events.
Rolex Today
Today, Rolex continues to push boundaries in the watchmaking world. Rolex’s innovations have allowed it to stay relevant while remaining true to its heritage. As one of the most recognized brands in the world, Rolex enjoys a reputation built on trust, innovation, and an unmatched commitment to quality.
At Le Temps, we invite you to explore our collection of Rolex watches, each one representing a piece of history and craftsmanship.
