The Ultimate Practical Watch, the Datejust

Among Rolex's overwhelmingly popular models, one of the most representative is the "Datejust."

First introduced in 1945, this model featured a calendar function that changed the date at midnight. With the date window positioned at 3 o'clock on the dial, it established the current standard style for three-hand watches with a date complication, where the date sequentially changes. Furthermore, the Datejust incorporated Rolex's fully waterproof "Oyster" case and the "Perpetual" self-winding mechanism, which allows for bidirectional winding via a rotating rotor. By consolidating these features, later dubbed the "three great Rolex inventions," the Datejust reigned supreme in the watchmaking world as the ultimate practical timepiece.


BRAND HISTORY

Founded in the early 20th century, when wristwatches were still a nascent invention, Rolex has walked alongside the evolution of the wristwatch for over 100 years, achieving remarkable advancements.

The history of Rolex began in 1905 with the establishment of "Wilsdorf and Davis," the precursor to the brand, in London, England. Founder Hans Wilsdorf was a visionary entrepreneur who foresaw the potential of wristwatches in an era when pocket watches were still the norm. In 1907, he moved the company's operational functions to Switzerland to focus on watch manufacturing. The following year, he conceived the brand name "ROLEX" and registered it as a trademark.

In 1910, Rolex obtained an official chronometer certification from a public accuracy testing institute, a first for a wristwatch, attesting to the high precision of its products. In 1926, the company invented the "Oyster" case, a hermetically sealed, dustproof structure, overcoming the vulnerability of wristwatches to water and dust.

Subsequently, Rolex developed the "Perpetual" self-winding system, which winds the mainspring through the rotation of a rotor, and the "Datejust," which features a digital display at the 3 o'clock position and automatically changes the date at midnight. Rolex's contribution to the evolution of the wristwatch is immeasurable.

The 1950s saw a diversification of its lineup, with the creation of watches for professionals undertaking specialized tasks, such as the "Submariner," the first diving watch in history, and the "Explorer," a wristwatch for adventurers. The development of watches designed for extreme conditions also enhanced the reliability of Rolex products for general users.

This spirit of ambitious development continues today. In 2000, Rolex achieved in-house production of chronographs. In 2007, it introduced next-generation models of the anti-magnetic watch "Milgauss" and a new chronograph for regattas. While consistently at the center of attention in the watchmaking world, Rolex continues to steadily produce timepieces grounded in practicality.

Founding Year: 1905
Place of Founding: London, England
Main Series: Oyster Perpetual, Cellini
Contact: Rolex Japan Public Relations - 03-3216-5671

Official Website: http://www.rolex.com/ja/