Veritable watch company Rolex was founded in 1905 by 24 year old Hans Wilsdorf. Something of a visionary, he had great interest in watches that were worn on the wrist, something new at that time. He dreamed of an elegant, reliable version and began outfitting his timepieces with precise movements made by a Swiss company.
The name for his company came from Wilsdorf’s desire to have a name that was short, easy to say and remember in any language and looked good on the timepiece itself. He eventually settled on Rolex after he said that a genie whispered it in his ear, according to the Rolex website.
Through the years, Rolex has dazzled the world with its precision timepieces. The company regularly has introduced specialty watches and innovations that are still best sellers today. A few highlights:
1926 – Rolex created of the first waterproof and dustproof wristwatch, the “Oyster.”
1931 – Rolex invented and patented the world’s first self-winding mechanism with a Perpetual rotor.
1945 – The Datejust debuted, the first self-winding wrist chronometer with a date feature.
1953 – The Submariner divers’ watch waterproof to a depth of 100 metres (330 feet).
1955 – The GMT-Master debuted, especially for the needs of airline pilots
1956 – Rolex’s Oyster Perpetual Day-Date arrived.
1957 – Rolex’s Lady-Datejust came to market with the classic Rolex look designed for a smaller wrist.
1978 – Rolex launched the Sea-Dweller 4000, waterproof to a depth of 1,220 metres (4,000 feet).
Learn more about the history of Rolex here.
Visually, a Rolex has a very distinctive look. Below are a few of the many Rolexes that Loudoun Jewelry has in stock in their estate and pre-owned watch department — a selection that changes often. Visit Loudoun Jewelry, Maple Avenue in person or shop online to see the latest timepieces.
Photos courtesy of Loudoun Jewelry.
Rolex Submariner Two-Toned
Rolex Gent’s President (day/date)
Rolex Datejust with Diamond Bezel
Rolex Ladies Datejust
