Gold Pocket Watch Marks
Rolex History
The company Rolex SA was founded in 1905 by Hans Wilsdorf and his brother-brother, Mr. Alfred Davis. Unlike popular belief, Hans Wilsdorf was neither Swiss, nor a watchmaker. Wilsdorf & Davis was the original name of what later became the Rolex Watch Company. They Swiss movements originally imported Hermann AEGLER in England and placed them in quality cases made by Dennison and others. These bracelets were sold at beginning to jewelers, who then put their name on the dial. The first watches from the firm Wilsdorf and Davis are usually marked "W & D" – Inside of the case only.
Hans Wilsdorf registered the trademark "Rolex" in La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland in 1908. The word has been formed, but its origin is obscure. A story that was never confirmed by Wilsdorf, is that the word "Rolex" came watch the exquisite French expression, meaning exquisite watch industry.
The company Wilsdorf & Davis has left Great Britain 1912. Wilsdorf wanted his watches to be affordable, but taxes and export duties on the case metals (silver and gold) were driving costs. From that time until today, Rolex has been headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, where the company has facilities in other cities (Bienne, etc) and continents (North America, Asia, Australia, etc..)
The company name Rolex was officially registered November 15, 1915. We think this change was part of a drive to popularize wristwatches, which at the time were still considered a novelty largely for women (pocket watches were more common). Wilsdorf was said on behalf of his desire to be watchmaker easily pronounceable in any language. The company name was officially changed to Rolex Watch Company in 1919. It was later changed to Montres Rolex SA and Rolex, finally, SA.
Rolex SA is a foundation initiated and originally funded by Hans Wilsdorf and family AEGLER. By Documentation Foundation, Rolex SA company can never be sold or traded on a stock exchange.
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