Welcome to The History of the Rolex Oyster Watch!
The most recognizable watch company in the world is probably Rolex. Both men and women aspire to acquire one of their recognizable models. In addition to prominence, Rolex is known for its incredible quality and innovation. Yes a Rolex is a status symbol, but is also so much more! Swiss watchmaker and designer Rolex was established in Britain and is currently situated in Geneva. Hans Wilsdorf and Alfred Davis established their business in London, England, in 1905 under the name Wilsdorf and Davis. In 1908, they changed the name to “Rolex.” Due to the poor economy in the United Kingdom after World War I, the corporation relocated its headquarters to Geneva.
A private family trust known as the Hans Wilsdorf Foundation has owned the business since 1960. In Geneva, Switzerland, the Hans Wilsdorf Foundation, which still owns and controls Rolex, contributes a large portion of its earnings to charitable and social purposes. Among the many iconic Rolex watches the Oyster standout for its history and classic design!
The History of the Rolex Oyster Watch:
Mercedes Gleitze, a young British secretary, made history in the watch industry in 1927 when she participated in an athletic feat that made the first waterproof watch known to the entire world. The 26-year-old spent more than 10 hours swimming the English Channel between France and Great Britain while sporting a Rolex Oyster. The waterproof watch was deemed to be in flawless operating condition after the swim. She received tremendous public attention for being the first Englishwoman to complete the challenging swim, which was still an uncommon feat at the time.
The watch was given the name Oyster because it was waterproof and clasped shut like an oyster shell. The Oyster captivated passersby and forever altered the standards for wristwatches when it was put inside a fish tank or bowl in jewelry store windows to show its waterproof capabilities.
The Oyster Perpetual line of watches is a direct descendant of the first waterproof timepiece in history, the Oyster, on which Rolex has staked its reputation since 1926. All of the core characteristics of the Oyster Perpetual line are present in these watches, including superb chronometric accuracy, a watertight Oyster case, and self-winding via a Perpetual rotor. These chronometer wristwatches are chronometer wristwatches in their purest form, showing hours, minutes, and seconds and fashioned entirely of Oystersteel. The Oyster Perpetual models stand out as icons of timeless and worldwide style thanks to their distinctive characteristics. They exhibit ageless design and functionality that are deeply rooted in Rolex’s innovative beginnings. One of the most coveted watches in the world and a watch that will never go out of style, the prices start at around $7,500.
