OYSTER STORY: CELEBRATING 100 YEARS OF A LEGEND

“It had the entire future and the whole world open before it.”
Hans Wilsdorf, 1956

In 2026, Rolex celebrates the 100th anniversary of the Oyster, the world’s first waterproof wristwatch. A century of continuous innovation. A century of achievements. A century during which the Oyster evolved into a vast collection of timepieces that today stand as benchmarks in watchmaking.

100 YEARS OF WATCHMAKING ACHIEVEMENTS

Hans Wilsdorf, founder of Rolex, believed that the wristwatch was perfectly suited to the modern lifestyle emerging at the beginning of the 20th century and symbolized this transition. Despite its small size, the wristwatch created by Wilsdorf offered the precision of a marine chronometer. To ensure that nothing would limit its use, he devised a way to protect the movement from all external influences.

In 1926, the creation of the Oyster marked a major innovation in the history of watchmaking. Rolex’s first waterproof wristwatch achieved resistance to water and dust thanks to a sealing system incorporating a screw-down bezel, case back and winding crown.

The development of an entirely new self-winding system, the Perpetual rotor, in 1931 further enhanced the performance of Rolex watches. Precise, waterproof and now autonomous in operation, the Oyster became “Perpetual,” offering its wearer complete freedom of movement.

From this original concept emerged a wide range of models, including the Explorer, Milgauss, GMT-Master, Submariner, Cosmograph Daytona and Yacht-Master. Each model evolved to meet specific requirements: greater resistance to pressure and magnetic fields, graduated rotating bezels, chronograph functionality and dual time zones, among others. Over time, these watches became benchmarks in their respective fields, with many now recognized as iconic examples of watchmaking design.

A LEGACY CARRIED FORWARD BY EXCEPTIONAL INDIVIDUALS

“Proof through testing” was Hans Wilsdorf’s philosophy. He believed that true excellence must be demonstrated under real-life conditions.

This philosophy was first expressed in a remarkable way in 1927, when British swimmer Mercedes Gleitze crossed the English Channel wearing an Oyster, proving the watch’s waterproof reliability and initiating Rolex’s enduring association with extraordinary individuals.

Over the decades, the Oyster was tested in some of the world’s most demanding environments, worn by explorers, scientists and adventurers. These real-world experiences enabled Rolex not only to introduce new technologies and continuously improve the performance of its watches, but also to forge strong bonds with pioneers who push boundaries, expand knowledge and leave a lasting mark on the world.

This legacy continues to shape Rolex’s commitments today. The pursuit of excellence, a passion for challenge and the constant drive to surpass limits are reflected in the sports Rolex supports, the world’s greatest champions and future generations. The same principles also guide the brand’s partnerships with leading cultural institutions and renowned artists, as well as its support for explorers, scientists and environmental organizations working to better understand and protect the natural world. Together, they continue to carry forward the spirit of the Oyster, inspiring new achievements.

ANNIVERSARY EDITION

This year, Rolex has chosen the Oyster Perpetual—its iconic model—as the symbol of the Oyster’s centennial celebration. Connecting the achievements of the past, present and future, a commemorative edition joins the collection.

The Oyster Perpetual 41 is presented in a yellow Rolesor configuration, combining a yellow gold bezel and winding crown with an Oystersteel case and bracelet. The characteristics of this edition pay tribute to the earliest Rolex Oyster watches.

Several design details directly reference the Oyster’s centenary: the number “100” engraved on the crown and dial, and the inscription “100 years” replacing “Swiss Made” at 6 o’clock. On the slate-colored dial, the Rolex name appears in the brand’s iconic green hue.

The Oyster Perpetual 41 also serves as a showcase for the enhanced Superlative Chronometer certification introduced in 2026, reaffirming Rolex’s unwavering commitment to excellence.

NEW SUPERLATIVE CHRONOMETER CERTIFICATION

In 2026, Rolex reaffirms its commitment to watch owners by strengthening the Superlative Chronometer certification. Three additional testing criteria—resistance to magnetic fields, reliability and sustainability—are now incorporated into the design and manufacturing stages of every watch.

These new criteria complement those established when the certification was redefined in 2015, covering precision, waterproofness, self-winding efficiency and power reserve, all verified through tests performed on the completed watch.

The Superlative Chronometer certification is rigorously monitored by internationally recognized independent Swiss organizations. The distinctive green seal guarantees exceptional performance on the wrist for every Rolex watch.

ABOUT ROLEX: AN UNRIVALED REPUTATION FOR QUALITY AND EXPERTISE

Rolex is an integrated and independent Swiss watch manufacturer. Headquartered in Geneva, the brand is recognized worldwide for its expertise and the quality of its products—symbols of excellence, elegance and prestige.

The movements of Rolex Oyster Perpetual and Perpetual watches are certified and tested in-house for precision, performance and reliability. The Superlative Chronometer certification, symbolized by the green seal, confirms that every watch has successfully passed a series of tests conducted by Rolex in its own laboratories according to its own criteria. These tests are regularly validated by independent external organizations.

The word “SUPERLATIVE,” engraved on every Oyster, reflects Rolex’s philosophy and values. It embodies the concept of perpetual excellence inspired by the brand’s founder, Hans Wilsdorf, and continues to guide the company in all its activities.

This philosophy led Rolex to pioneer the development of the wristwatch and introduce major innovations in watchmaking, such as the Oyster, the brand’s first waterproof wristwatch launched in 1926, and the Perpetual rotor self-winding mechanism, invented in 1931.

Throughout its history, Rolex has registered more than 700 patents. Across its four facilities in Switzerland, the brand designs, develops and manufactures the majority of its watch components. A fifth facility, also located in Switzerland, is currently under construction and is expected to become operational in 2029.

Rolex carries out all manufacturing processes in-house, from casting gold alloys to machining, assembly and finishing of movements, cases, dials and bracelets. At the same time, the brand actively supports the arts and culture, sports and exploration, as well as individuals and organizations developing solutions to help protect the planet.

For more information and photographic material:
https://newsroom.rolex.com/watches/oyster-story/oyster-story