“Too complicated, too fragile, ill-adapted” – the wristwatch was met with scepticism. Yet, relying on his firmly-held beliefs, Hans Wilsdorf managed to achieve his bold objective of establishing the Rolex watch – the Oyster Perpetual – as the archetype of the waterproof self-winding wristwatch, a robust and precise timepiece able to withstand all conditions. But he was not simply a visionary who endowed Rolex watches with their fundamental technical and aesthetic characteristics. His constant quest for perfection was accompanied by a profound generosity and unshakeable faith in human potential.

Uniting expertise

An integrated and independent company, Rolex has manufacturing resources that encompass a wide range of skills and knowledge. Watchmakers, engineers, designers and other specialists work closely together from the design to the manufacturing of the watches. Rolex’s company culture is based above all on human values, which place both expertise and soft skills at the heart of the brand’s different activities.

Rolex is host to a variety of professions, brought to life by employees who are experts in their fields. The company designs and manufactures the majority of its watch components, from the casting of gold alloys to machining, crafting, assembly and finishing of the movement, case, dial and bracelet, as well as gem-setting. Its know-how is also made available right across the world thanks to an exceptional after-sales service network.

To ensure the brand’s expertise exists into the future, Rolex has its own unique Training Centre. Dedicated to the pursuit of excellence and the development of its employees, the centre, located in Geneva, provides training to employees and instructs apprentices. The company aims to pass on to younger generations its pride in its skills and mastery of its knowledge.