The Founding and Early Innovations

Rolex was founded in 1905 by Hans Wilsdorf and his brother-in-law, Alfred Davis, in London, England. The company began as Wilsdorf & Davis, specializing in the distribution of high-quality Swiss watches. In 1908, Wilsdorf registered the trademark "Rolex," a name he believed to be easy to pronounce in any language and short enough to fit elegantly on a watch dial. By 1910, Rolex had made a significant mark in the industry by becoming the first watchmaker to earn the Swiss Certificate of Chronometric Precision, a prestigious recognition that cemented its reputation for accuracy and reliability.

Innovations That Defined an Era

Throughout the years, Rolex has consistently pushed the boundaries of watchmaking technology. In 1926, the brand introduced the Oyster case, the world’s first waterproof watch case, which revolutionized the industry. This innovation was followed by the introduction of the Rolex Oyster Perpetual in 1931, featuring the groundbreaking self-winding mechanism that would become a hallmark of Rolex watches. The combination of these advancements laid the groundwork for Rolex’s reputation as a leader in luxury and precision timepieces, making them a favorite among explorers and adventurers.

A Legacy of Excellence and Prestige

The latter half of the 20th century saw Rolex continue to expand its legacy with the launch of iconic models such as the Submariner, Daytona, and Datejust. Each model not only represented cutting-edge technology but also became symbols of status and achievement. Rolex watches have adorned the wrists of world leaders, celebrities, and athletes, further solidifying the brand's image as a pinnacle of luxury. Today, Rolex remains a family-owned business headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, where it continues to uphold the principles of quality, innovation, and elegance that have defined its storied history for over a century.