About the Watch

Rolex utilized the "Precision" designation for watches that lacked certification from the Contrôle Officiel Suisse des Chronomètres (COSC). It's essential to clarify that the absence of COSC certification doesn't impact the watch's intrinsic qualities; rather, non-certified watches simply opted not to pursue certification. The introduction of Precision-labeled watches by Rolex served the purpose of providing a more affordable option while safeguarding their primary product lines through distinctive labeling, opting to use manual wound movements in contrast to the automatic calibres of the Oyster Perpetual lines. For individuals unable to invest in the traditional lines, a Rolex Precision offered an accessible entry point—a concept reminiscent of the Tudor brand. These watches debuted in two distinct styles. The initial style featured straightforward dress watches, often crafted in gold but occasionally in steel. Rolex introduced these pieces in the 1940s, with later examples emerging in the 1970s. They were housed in uncomplicated snapback cases, with the majority originating from the 1950s and 1960s. The second style emerged within the iconic Rolex Oyster case, making its debut around 1953. Prominent examples include the Oysterdate and Oyster Precision models. While these constituted the majority of "Precision" labeled watches, it's noteworthy that certain models of the Rolex Air King also bore this designation.

About the Brand

Known the world over, Rolex is a benchmark for prestige and quality in watchmaking. Since its creation, the brand has placed the reliability of its products uppermost. It submits virtually its entire movement production for testing by the Contrôle Officiel Suisse des Chronomètres to obtain COSC certification. Rolex is also renowned for its after-sales service which is performed by staff who have been specially trained, often in Rolex's own schools in countries around the globe, including the United States and Japan. Rolex was founded by Hans Wilsdorf. A Bavarian watchmaker who emigrated to Switzerland, he immediately put his natural flair for products and business acumen at the service of a brand that would soon forge an international reputation. He was succeeded in 1963 by André Heiniger, whose son Patrick took over at the helm in 1992. Bruno Meier in 2009 then Gian Riccardo Marini in 2011 were successively appointed at the head of the business, a limited company (société anonyme) that is wholly owned by the Hans Wilsdorf Foundation. In 2014, Jean-Frédéric Dufour, previously Chief Executive of Zenith, was named as the new CEO. Such a reputation hasn't gone unnoticed among collectors, as recent auction results demonstrate. At a 2013 sale in Geneva, for example, a Daytona Chronograph in steel achieved an absolute record price of US$ 1.1 million. The brand hones its image through associations with prominent and well-respected personalities chosen from the arts and sports. Also, in 1976 Rolex launched its Awards for Enterprise which each year single out innovative projects that promote sustainable development. The Rolex Mentor and Protégé Arts Initiative gives young artists a privileged opportunity to benefit from the experience of masters in their field.