Origins and period
London, England; headquarters later moved to Geneva, Switzerland
Founded by Hans Wilsdorf and Alfred Davis in 1905
Abbady Watches A–Z archive · Research page
Rolex
This page has been created in the permanent archive and is ready for verified history, watch photographs, model identification, and collector information.
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Images needed for Rolex
Please upload a clear front view, caseback, movement or calibre marking, side profile and crown, clasp or bracelet, and any inscription. Photographs will be captioned without guessing an exact reference.
Rolex in watchmaking
Hans Wilsdorf built Rolex around the belief that wristwatches could be both elegant and reliably precise. The Rolex name was registered in 1908, and the company later established itself in Geneva while developing sealed Oyster cases, automatic winding, chronometer performance, and purpose-built professional models.
Landmark dates
- Founding and first production
- Important movement or model launch
- Expansion, merger, revival, or modern milestone
Known for
Oyster and Perpetual systems, Datejust, Submariner, GMT-Master, Daytona, Explorer, Day-Date, chronometer certification, and durable professional watches.
Movements and innovation
Calibres, escapements, case construction, water resistance, electronic or quartz development, manufacturing methods, patents, and specialist suppliers.
Identification checklist
- Reference and serial numbers
- Movement calibre and jewel count
- Case material and dimensions
- Dial, hands, crown, crystal, bracelet, and inscriptions
Preservation guidance
Service considerations, originality, replacement parts, water-resistance assumptions, safe storage, and details that should be documented before restoration.
References and credits
Official manufacturer history, museum or archive sources, technical sheets, books, catalogues, advertisements, image credits, and provenance notes.