Rolex

In 1905, Hans Wilsdorf and Alfred Davis established the business in London, and under the name Wilsdorf and Davis, Rolex was established. Wilsdorf's idea was radical—he wanted wristwatches with the precision and elegance of a pocket watch, yet more convenient for everyday use.

Any legacy starts with a vision - and Rolex is not an exception. The history of the brand as a modest office in London to the Swiss watchmaking center, is one of accuracy, zeal and diligence.

Why did Rolex move from London to Switzerland?

In 1919, Wilsdorf shifted the activities of the brand to the Swiss city of Geneva, the center of the watch business. In 1920, the company was legally registered as Montres Rolex SA and it acquired its Swiss identity that has since been in existence.

The Early Success of the Rolex brand

Early innovations like the Oyster waterproof case and self-winding movement propelled Rolex to instant fame. Adventurers, pilots, and professionals found themselves selecting Rolex because of its stability in harsh environments.

Which Country Owns Rolex today?

Rolex SA is a Swiss firm, although the ownership is peculiar. The Hans Wilsdorf Foundation is a Geneva-based charity that is the full owner. The firm is a profit-making company, but considered that its profits eventually go to charitable activities in Switzerland, which explains why people tend to confuse Rolex with a charity.

Where is Rolex made?

All Rolexes are made in Switzerland, which consists of four state-of-the-art factories in Geneva, Bienne, and Plan-les-Ouates. From gold foundries to movement workshops, every stage happens within Switzerland. It is so close-knit that Swiss Made on a Rolex is more than a label, but a guarantee of quality.

There is hardly a name in luxury that has as much weight as Rolex has. In addition to its technical expertise, the brand has turned into a status symbol of desire, success, and international excellence. It is useful to have a little information as to why Rolex is unmatched in the watch making industry before examining what makes Rolex unique.

What makes Rolex special?

What makes Rolex different is its blend of precision engineering, classic design, and a generational legacy of excellence. All Rolexes are masterpieces- they are a combination of art and science, and they are made to last a lifetime.

How Rolex became a global luxury symbol?

Established more than 100 years ago, Rolex has expanded a small London start-up into a global symbol of luxury. Its enduring philosophy, grounded in durability, accuracy, and design purity, made it the standard of excellence in watchmaking. Today, with a greater than 10-billion Swiss annual turnover and dominance over 30% of the Swiss luxury watch market, Rolex continues to set benchmarks , with models like the Best Rolex for investment 2025 leading discussions among collectors and investors worldwide.

Every great Rolex is supported by an invention that reinvented timekeeping. Rolex made functionality an art form with such innovations as waterproof cases and self-winding rotors. This is the way the trailblazing innovations of the brand created new standards in horological excellence.

Having been produced entirely in Switzerland, each Rolex narrates a tale of domination, artisanship, and uniformity. The process is an art and engineering perfection that involves raw metal to finish a masterpiece. This is a peep into the painstaking Rolex manufacturing.

What materials does Rolex use?

Rolex has its own materials that are the results of years of research: Oystersteel (904L) is corrosion-resistant, Cerachrom bezels are non-fading, and luminous Chromalight displays are easily readable. Models such as precious are in gold, platinum and Rolesor combinations (steel-gold) manufactured at the Rolex own foundry.

How does Rolex make its watches in-house?

Every Rolex component -- from movement to bracelet -- is crafted in-house at one of four state-of-the-art Swiss facilities. This vertical integration guarantees a hundred percent control on all screws, gears, and jewels.

How Rolex made watches more accurate and reliable?

Rolex was one of the first brands to have the certification of their watches being chronometers that exceed stringent accuracy standards. Today, all Rolex watch are tested as Superlabe Chronometers, which are twice more accurate as the standard Swiss tests, and are simultaneously absolutely reliable on every wrist.

Rolex is more than a watchmaker; it is a purpose brand. The fact that the brand is owned by a charitable organization rather than an individual is a unique feature of the brand compared to other luxury houses. We shall see how Swiss precision and world generosity combine within the story of Rolex.

Is Rolex a Charitable Organization?

Rolex is a for-profit company fully owned by the Hans Wilsdorf Foundation, a private charitable organization in Geneva. Founded in 1945, the foundation ensures Rolex profits support social, educational, and environmental causes.

Through initiatives like the Rolex Awards for Enterprise and Perpetual Planet, Rolex continues its founder’s vision of pairing business excellence with philanthropy, making it one of the world’s most unique luxury brands.

Rolex has evolved into something more than a watchmaker and is instead a purpose brand. The Rolex watches are classified into two broad categories:

1. Professional (sports and tool watches)
2. Classic (elegant and everyday)

What is the Difference between Professional and Classic Rolex collections?

1. Professional Collection: Designed to work in extreme conditions -- includes the Submariner, GMT-Master II, Daytona, Explorer, Sea-Dweller, Yacht-Master, and Air-King.
2. Classic Collection: The iconic style - it has the Datejust, Day-Date, Oyster Perpetual, Sky-Dweller, 1908 and Lady-Datejust.

Which Rolex model fits your lifestyle best?

1. Adventurers: Submariner or Explorer
2. Business people: GMT-Master II
3. Executives: Day-Date
4. Everyday wearers: Datejust
5. Collectors: Sky-Dweller or 1908

Several models have been able to stand the test of time and be regarded as legends over the decades. These watches are created to suit the deep sea, the racetrack or the boardroom; these watches are a keystone to the spirit of Rolex everlasting. We can take a look at the five icons which characterize the crown.

Rolex Submariner - the greatest diving watch of all times

The Rolex Submariner is the ultimate icon of Rolex, which is water-resistant to 300m, has a rotating timing bezel and timeless design. It looks just as much at home in a wet suit or around a suit cuff.

Rolex Daytona - The Watch of the Racer

As speed lovers, the Rolex Daytona was a legend on the track with its chronograph and tachometer scale. It is one of the most sought after watches in the world due to its rarity and its history.

Rolex GMT-Master II - Ideal for Traveling.

GMT -Master II created for Pan Am pilots, this dual-time-zone watch helps jet-setters track home and local time simultaneously -- a favorite among global executives and UAE frequent fliers.

Rolex Datejust - Everyday Classic.

Sophisticated but casual, the Rolex Datejust fits every situation. It has a fluted bezel, a date window and a cyclops lens – making it the most sold line in the world by Rolex.

Rolex Day-Date - The Watch of the President.

Rolex Day-Date was the first watch to show day and date, having been launched in 1956. Presidents wear it, royalty, and even visionaries do it, it is the ultimate power statement.

The new Rolex 2025 lineup introduces refined updates that emphasize innovation while preserving classic design. Highlights include new dial colors, material upgrades, and the debut of the Land-Dweller, appealing to collectors in the UAE and worldwide.

What is the newest Rolex model in 2025?

Rolex’s 2025 lineup introduces the Land-Dweller, a bold new model designed to bridge the gap between land and sea. Its rugged yet refined design combines durability with elegance, making it a perfect balance of adventure and sophistication — further strengthening the Rolex resale value 2025, as collectors anticipate strong appreciation for this groundbreaking release.

Other key Releases

1. Refreshed GMT-Master II
2. Oyster Perpetual
3. Datejusts
4. A variety of new bold dial colours under the 1908 collection
5. (All shown in Watches & Wonders 2025)

Every Rolex reference number tells a story — revealing the model, material, and design details.

For example, the number 126610LN identifies a Submariner Date in steel with a black bezel.

Learning these codes helps collectors verify authenticity and understand a watch’s history.

1. 126610LN refers to the Submariner Date (1266) made of steel (10) but with a black bezel (LN).
2. The older models had four or five figures (e.g. 16610 with the vintage Submariners).

By knowing these codes, one can determine authenticity, date of production, and the year of production - which is essential to a collector.

Why are discontinued Rolex models worth more?

Discontinued Rolex models often gain value because they become rare and highly sought after by collectors. Limited availability and unique features drive demand, making these watches sell for much higher prices over time.

Example:

1. “Hulk” Submariner
2. Older “Pepsi” GMT models

Both are now worth significantly more than their original retail prices.

Owning a Rolex is more than a purchase — it’s an investment in craftsmanship and prestige.

Prices vary widely depending on the model, material, and rarity, but Rolex watches consistently hold their value over time. Below are the Rolex watch prices in the UAE.

How much is the cheapest Rolex?

The Oyster Perpetual 36mm is often the cheapest Rolex entry into Rolex ownership. It delivers the full quality and precision the brand is known for, with a clean, minimalist design. Despite its simplicity, strong global demand ensures that it maintains excellent resale value over time.

Why are Rolex watches so expensive?

Every Rolex, whether it is Rolex Global or Rolex UAE is crafted using the highest quality materials and tested rigorously. The brand maintains exclusivity by restricting production to approximately 1.2 million watches per year. Combined with timeless design and prestige, this drives global desirability.

What affects Rolex resale prices?

1. Popularity of the model (Submariner, GMT, Daytona)
2. Service and condition history
3. Original box & papers
4. Fabricated scarcity (cancelled references, scarce dials)
5. Metal type (steel, in most cases, is more resaleable than gold)

10.1 Price Overview: Rolex Watches 2025

The following table highlights key Rolex 2025 price trends and investment potential across popular models. It reflects the evolving Rolex resale value 2025, showcasing which watches are gaining or holding strong in collector demand.

1. Omega: more exclusive with advanced tech but higher production volume.
2. Patek Philippe & Audemars Piguet: produce fewer watches with intricate complications.
3. Rolex: leads in liquidity, volume, and global recognition — controlling about 30% of Swiss luxury watch sales.

The journey to owning a Rolex watch for men and Rolex watch for women should be as refined as the watch itself. With high demand and exclusivity, authenticity matters more than ever. Here’s how to navigate boutiques, waiting lists, and certified dealers with confidence.

Where to buy an authentic Rolex?

Only purchase at:

1. Rolex Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) dealers
2. Official Rolex Retailers

There are several official boutiques owned by Ahmed Seddiqi & Sons in the UAE, with new and CPO selections including Rolex ladies watches and Rolex

What are Rolex waiting lists and how to join them?

1. Models like Submariner and Daytona have long waitlists due to demand.
2. Retailers allocate individually; visiting, showing interest, and building a relationship with boutiques helps.

How to spot fake Rolex listings online?

1. Avoid deals that seem too good to be true.
2. Watch out for sellers without service history or guarantee cards.
3. Always check serial and reference numbers.

Should you buy a new or pre-owned Rolex?

1. New: Complete warranty and latest models, but limited supply.
2. Used: Broader variety and discontinued gems; CPO program guarantees authenticity with a 2-year Rolex warranty.

What to check before buying: Box, Papers, and Serial Number?

1. A complete set (original box, guarantee card, manuals, tags) increases value.
2. Ensure serial numbers match paperwork and engraving on the case rehaut (at 6 o’clock position).

Fake Rolexes tend to be light, scratchy, and not as refined as Rolex. Modern Rolex movements glide smoothly -- no "ticking" second hand.

It is an art to differentiate authenticity in a market that is already saturated with imitations. The fake watches of Rolex have a silent flawlessness which cannot be copied. These are the tricks to identifying the work that is truly crafted and the fakes.

Real vs fake Rolex features: weight, movement, engravings.

1. Weight: Real Rolexes are more weighty because of solid metal.
2. Movement: Genuine Rolex uses sweeping mechanical movement.
3. Engravings: Sharp, fine, and clear - not rough-cut.
4. Cyclops lens: The date is magnified 2.5x and centered perfectly..

Beyond beauty, Rolex watches hold remarkable financial strength. Collectors worldwide recognize them as tangible assets that blend passion and profit. Let’s explore why the crown continues to outperform in value.

From Hollywood to Wimbledon, Rolex appears where excellence thrives. The brand’s presence on famous wrists reinforces its image as a global status symbol. Here’s how culture and craftsmanship intertwine through the Rolex name.

Famous people who wear Rolex watches

Rolex surrounds world icons, across generations, in Daniel Craig, Brad Pitt, Roger Federer and Beyonce.

Rolex in movies and sports events

As a symbol of success and adventure, Rolex has been a subtle prop in movies such as James Bond, Titanic, and The Wolf of Wall Street as symbol of character.

Rolex partnerships and sponsorships worldwide

The brand is associated with Wimbledon, Formula 1, yachting, and the Oscars, which solidifies its association with precision, power, and performance.

Luxury today demands responsibility and Rolex leads with quiet strength. The brand’s sustainability commitments reflect its long-term vision of progress. Let’s uncover how ethical innovation defines the future of the crown.

Is Rolex environmentally friendly?

Yes. According to the Sustainability Report of the brand, the environmental footprint decreases by 37% (2022-2023) and the gold sourcing mix is 70% of recovered industrial material.

How does Rolex support science and exploration?

In a collaboration with National Geographic and Mission Blue, Rolex finances expeditions to oceans and glaciers - combining both exploration and environmental protection.

Across continents, the appeal of Rolex knows no boundaries. Its watches dominate both retail counters and auction rooms worldwide. Here’s a closer look at the markets driving the brand’s enduring global success.

Which countries buy the most Rolex watches?

The U.S., China, Japan, the UAE and the U.K. are the top buyers. These markets control retail and secondary markets. Rolex continues to lead the market selling over 10 billion watches worth over $10 billion a year, with a dominant share of the total Swiss watch sales of about ⅓.

Dubai stands as one of Rolex’s most dynamic markets, where success and style meet seamlessly. In a city that celebrates achievement, owning a Rolex is both status and story. Here’s why the UAE remains a hub for collectors and connoisseurs.

Why is Rolex so popular in Dubai?

The achievements of culture and tax free wealth in Dubai, along with the tourism, has turned the city into a haven of Rolex fanatics. The purchase of a Rolex is frequently a matter of success and celebration.

Where to buy Rolex in UAE?

Rolex watches are sold in the official retailers listed on our site and other accredited Rolex dealers in Dubai and Abu Dhabi as well as the UAE region in general.

What models are most popular with UAE collectors?

Steel Submariners, Daytonas, and GMT-Master are in demand on the wish lists, and gold Day-Dates are still popular with executives of the region.

To keep your Rolex in pristine condition:

1. Service every 8–10 years through authorized centers.
2. Avoid exposure to strong magnets or chemicals.
3. Clean gently with a microfiber cloth and soapy water.
4. Store in a dry, temperature-controlled box when not in use.