With Rolex, The World Is Your Oyster

The word “Perpetual” is inscribed on every Rolex Oyster. But more than just a word on a dial, it is a philosophy that embodies the company’s vision and values.

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Founder Hans Wilsdorf instilled a quest for excellence that underpins all the company’s activities, from its watchmaking to its long-term support for those who strive to push the boundaries of human endeavour and achievement. Since the 1930s, Rolex has equipped pioneering explorers on expeditions to the world’s most remote places, the deepest oceans and the highest peaks. As the 21st century unfolds, however, the era of pure discovery is changing to one of exploration as a means to preserve the natural world. Under the banner of a Perpetual Planet, Rolex is joining forces with key individuals and organisations to help find solutions to environmental challenges.

THE ROLEX AWARDS FOR ENTERPRISE

The Rolex Awards for Enterprise were established in 1976 to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Rolex Oyster Chronometer, the world’s first waterproof wristwatch. They were designed to foster a spirit of enterprise, advance human knowledge and well-being, and protect our cultural heritage and the environment.

The Rolex Awards are unique in several ways. Unlike most other award and grant programmes, they are not designed to recognise past achievements – they are given for new or ongoing projects. Candidates must be over 18 years, and there are no academic or professional requirements, and no restrictions on gender or nationality – anyone, anywhere, can be considered for the Rolex Awards. This has allowed many people working outside established scientific circles and specialised institutions, and thus without access to traditional funding sources, to gain recognition and funds to implement their visionary projects. The 140 women and men selected as Rolex Awards