Rolex Day Date Watches:A History
Today Rolex watches is still manufactured in the Bienne area of Switzerland, is headquartered in Geneva, and is sold all over the planet. Wherever you may be in the world, chances are Rolex watches are associated with impeccable quality, prestige, and luxury. Hans Wilsdorf, its founder, would, no doubt, be very proud.
By 1908 Wisdorf's firm became one of the leading watch companies in the UK. It was that year that he coined the name Rolex . Rather than immortalising his own name on the watch face as many other Swiss watchmakers had done, Wilsdorf made one up. It is said (though it has never been confirmed) that he chose "Rolex" by drawing this name from the French phrase 'Horlogerie Exquise' (exquisite watchmaking). Whether this story is true or not, the fact is that it would grow to become one of the most recognised brands of all time.
In 1910 official recognition for Rolex watches was gained from the 'Bureau Officiel' in Bienne, an organisation whose praise was well regarded in the watch industry. It wasn't until four years later, though, on July 15, 1914 that the first 'Kew A Chronometer Certificate' was awarded to Rolex after 45 days of rigourous testing at the Kew Observatory in London. The watch was tested in various positions and temperatures, including inside a refrigerator and an oven. Wilsdorf now insisted that all his watches must pass these tests before being sold.
