Rolex Oyster Perpetual

Rolex is arguably the most recognized luxury watch brand in the world. Originally founded in London in 1905 by Hans Wilsdorf and Alfred Davis, the company relocated its operations to Geneva, Switzerland, in 1919 due to the post-war economic climate in the UK. Since then, Rolex has become synonymous with Swiss horological excellence, maintaining a reputation for precision, durability, and status.

Every Rolex watch, including the Oyster Perpetual shown here, is designed and manufactured almost entirely in-house across four specialized sites in Switzerland. These locations handle everything from the smelting of gold alloys to the final assembly and testing of the movements. The brand is famous for its vertical integration, ensuring that every component meets rigorous quality standards.

Ownership of Rolex is unique in the luxury industry. The company is owned by the Hans Wilsdorf Foundation, a private family trust. This structure allows Rolex to remain independent and focus on long-term brand heritage and philanthropic endeavors rather than short-term quarterly profits required by public shareholders. To this day, the ultimate owner remains headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland.