As a guest of Rolex at the 2024 Concours d’Elegance during Monterey Car Week, I experienced a seamless blend of history and innovation against the picturesque setting of Pebble Beach. The event showcased classic and contemporary automotive art, with Rolex’s influence evident throughout, reflecting their commitment to precision, tradition, and forward-thinking design. From meticulously restored vintage cars to unveiling futuristic designs, the festivities highlighted Rolex’s dedication to craftsmanship and innovation. My time there deepened my appreciation for the artistry in automotive design and emphasized Rolex’s role in linking the past, present, and future of motoring. In the following discussion, I’ll explore how Rolex’s legacy continues to shape the world of motorsport and automotive culture, as I experienced firsthand at this year’s memorable festivities.

Designer: Rolex

Rolex: A Legacy of Craftsmanship and Innovation

Rolex embodies luxury, precision, and lasting craftsmanship. Founded by Hans Wilsdorf and Alfred Davis in London in 1905, it has evolved into a global icon. Originally known as Wilsdorf & Davis, the company specialized in distributing timepieces before focusing on manufacturing.

Rolex: The first waterproof and dustproof wristwatch by Rolex in 1926.

In 1908, Rolex was registered, and Wilsdorf set out to create elegant and reliable wristwatches. This pursuit led to developing the first waterproof wristwatch, the Rolex Oyster, in 1926. The Oyster case was a groundbreaking innovation, protecting the watch’s movement from dust, moisture, and pressure, ensuring its accuracy even in challenging conditions.

Innovation continued with the introduction of the Perpetual rotor in 1931, the world’s first self-winding mechanism powered by the natural motion of the wrist. This advancement set Rolex apart in the luxury watch market, marking another significant milestone in horology.

Rolex’s drive for precision is evident in its rigorous testing processes. Every Rolex watch undergoes stringent tests for accuracy, water resistance, and endurance, earning the brand its reputation for reliability. Certified as Superlative Chronometers by the Swiss Official Chronometer Testing Institute (COSC), these timepieces highlight Rolex’s dedication to exceptional performance.

Over the decades, Rolex has introduced pioneering innovations that have solidified its reputation in watchmaking. In 1945, Rolex unveiled the Datejust, the first wristwatch to display the date on the dial, marking a significant leap forward in both functionality and design. The Submariner followed in 1953 as the first dive watch to be waterproof to a depth of 100 meters, made possible by the robust Oyster case—a marvel of engineering that ensures the watch’s durability and water resistance under extreme conditions.

Rolex also revolutionized the watch bracelet with the introduction of the Oyster bracelet, known for its strength and comfort, and the Jubilee bracelet, which combines style and flexibility, offering unmatched wearability. In recent years, Rolex introduced the Oysterflex bracelet, a sophisticated combination of flexible titanium and nickel alloy metal blade covered with high-performance elastomer, providing a new level of comfort without sacrificing durability.

Today, Rolex leads the world of luxury and precision, with each watch representing a blend of cutting-edge technology and timeless design. The brand’s legacy thrives on relentless innovation, uncompromising quality, and an enduring pursuit of perfection.

Rolex’s Timeless Connection with Motorsport

In the 1930s, Sir Malcolm Campbell, the renowned British racing driver known as the “King of Speed,” forged a powerful connection between high-speed racing and precision timekeeping. On Sept. 3, 1935, at the Bonneville Salt Flats in Utah, Campbell made history by becoming the first person to break the 300 mph barrier, reaching 301.13 mph. During this groundbreaking feat, he relied on the Rolex Oyster. This watch demonstrated remarkable resilience and accuracy under extreme conditions, marking the beginning of a lasting bond between motorsport and Rolex.

At the time of Sir Malcolm Campbell’s record-breaking feats, the Rolex Oyster was still establishing its reputation. Campbell’s choice of the Rolex Oyster during his high-speed attempts significantly contributed to proving its reliability. His successes, supported by the watch’s consistent performance during these demanding moments, played a crucial role in forging Rolex’s longstanding association with motorsport. This partnership began a deep connection between Rolex and the world of speed, precision, and endurance.

In 1959, Rolex became the official timekeeper for the newly established Daytona International Speedway, cementing its role in motorsport. This partnership eventually led to the creation of the Rolex Oyster Perpetual Cosmograph in 1963, later famously known as the ‘Daytona.’ The watch was designed specifically for racing drivers, featuring a tachymetric scale on the bezel that allowed drivers to measure average speed over a specific distance—a crucial function in motorsports.

The Daytona’s design and functionality made it a legend in the racing world, and its connection to the speedway secured Rolex’s place in motorsport history. The watch became an icon cherished by racing enthusiasts and collectors. Over the years, Rolex’s involvement in motorsport deepened, particularly in endurance racing.

The Rolex 24 at Daytona is a grueling 24-hour endurance race that pushes drivers and machines to their limits. In 1992, Rolex became the title sponsor, reinforcing its commitment to precision and performance. This race demands unwavering focus and high-speed consistency, with drivers rotating through shifts to keep their cars moving. The parallels between this endurance and the reliability expected from Rolex watches are clear—both are engineered to perform under pressure, whether on the track or in daily life, reflecting the brand’s dedication to durability and precision.

Endurance races like the Rolex 24 at Daytona and the 24 Hours of Le Mans challenge drivers and vehicles alike, requiring intense stamina and flawless reliability. These events demand high performance from every component, with drivers battling fatigue and maintaining focus under extreme conditions. Similarly, Rolex mechanical watches are designed to endure, keeping precise time through years of use and the rigors of daily wear. This shared commitment to enduring performance solidifies Rolex’s role in motorsport, where reliability is paramount.

Image: Rolex

Rolex expanded its involvement in endurance racing further in 2001 when it became the Official Timepiece of the 24 Hours of Le Mans, one of the world’s most famous and challenging races. The winners of Le Mans receive a specially engraved Rolex Cosmograph Daytona, a highly coveted prize that symbolizes both endurance and excellence.

In 2016, Rolex became the Official Timepiece of the FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC), strengthening its role in endurance racing. This partnership reflects Rolex’s support for the evolution of endurance racing and its focus on technological innovation, a value shared by the WEC.

Rolex’s Enduring Influence at Monterey Car Week and Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance

Monterey Car Week traces its roots to the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, which debuted in 1950 alongside the Pebble Beach Road Race. From modest beginnings, it has grown into the world’s most prestigious gathering of automotive artistry, attracting premier collectors, fans, and enthusiasts globally. This event honors and preserves automotive heritage, showcasing vehicles that illustrate the highest standards of design and engineering. This year, the coveted Best in Show winner receives the new Rolex 1908, a timepiece that reflects both the event’s tradition and Rolex’s enduring dedication to quality and innovation.

Image: Rolex

In 1997, Rolex became the official timepiece of the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, establishing a partnership that bridges the worlds of watchmaking and automotive history. Rolex’s involvement extends to other hallmark events, such as The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering, and the Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion.

Image: Rolex

At The Quail presents a curated mix of vintage and modern vehicles in a more intimate setting, reflecting Rolex’s enduring commitment to celebrating and honoring automotive traditions.

Image: Rolex

Meanwhile, historic race cars are brought back to life on the track at the Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion. Rolex underscores the importance of authenticity and the preservation of motorsport history.

Image: Rolex

Hurley Haywood is regarded as one of the most accomplished endurance racers in history. His illustrious career includes five overall victories at the Rolex 24 at Daytona (1973, 1975, 1977, 1979, and 1991), showcasing his dominance in one of motorsport’s most grueling endurance races. In addition to his successes at Daytona, Haywood also claimed victory at the 24 Hours of Le Mans three times (1977, 1983, and 1994), and he won the 12 Hours of Sebring twice (1973 and 1981).

Hurley Haywood at the Corkscrew of Laguna Seca

Hurley Haywood’s legendary racing career, marked by numerous victories, makes him the perfect namesake for the Hurley Haywood Trophy at the Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion. This award honors drivers who embody Haywood’s skill and dedication, aligning with Rolex’s values of precision and performance. As a Rolex Testimonee, Haywood’s association reinforces Rolex’s commitment to motorsport excellence. Beyond his personal achievements, Haywood has mentored the next generation of drivers, sharing his knowledge and passion. The Hurley Haywood Trophy celebrates his legacy and the broader history of motorsport, further solidifying the deep connection between Rolex and the racing community.

Wrapping Up

Rolex’s presence in motorsport and classic cars goes beyond the surface, symbolizing a deep-seated commitment to precision and excellence. The brand has become synonymous with achievement and timeless craftsmanship, from its early partnership with legendary drivers to its pivotal role in events like the Rolex 24 at Daytona and Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance. By maintaining a balance between innovation and tradition, Rolex upholds its reputation across generations. Whether on a driver’s wrist or marking time at a prestigious event, Rolex stands as a lasting emblem of dedication to the highest standards.

The post From Track to Timepiece: Rolex’s Enduring Influence on Motorsport and Automotive Excellence first appeared on Yanko Design.

Good morning, everyone! Today’s Mobile Monday and Wristwatch Wednesday converge into a celebration of two timeless icons. We’re featuring the elegant 1934 Bugatti Type 59 Sports, which recently claimed Best of Show at the 73rd Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, alongside the exquisite Rolex 1908 timepiece awarded to the winner. Both of these masterpieces capture the essence of what’s old and new, seamlessly blending the past and present.

1934 Bugatti Type 59 Sports Wins Best in Show 2024

Designers: Bugatti and Rolex

Image Bugatti: 1934 Bugatti Type 59 Sports with chassis number 57248

The 1934 Bugatti Type 59 Sports and the Rolex 1908 have histories stretching back to when craftsmanship was paramount and every detail mattered. Though from different worlds—automotive and horology—these two icons share a narrative that speaks to the pursuit of perfection and the appreciation for timeless beauty.

Rolex 1908 reference 52508

For the first time in the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance history, Best of Show was awarded to a preservation car—a remarkable distinction that adds another layer to the Bugatti Type 59’s storied past. This year, 214 cars from 16 countries and 29 states pulled onto the competition field, but the 1934 Bugatti Type 59 Sports, presented by Fritz Burkard of The Pearl Collection in Zug, Switzerland, claimed the spotlight.

Image Rolex: 1934 Bugatti Type 59 Sports with chassis number 57248

Concours Chairman Sandra Button highlighted the significance of this victory, noting that this particular Type 59 is a rare factory race car with multiple Grand Prix victories to its name. This car has connections to some of the greatest racing legends and even ties to royalty. What makes it even more extraordinary is that it remains preserved in the livery given to it by King Leopold of Belgium, showcasing its authentic and original character.

The Bugatti Type 59 Sports stands as a masterpiece of automotive artistry. Bugatti, renowned for its pursuit of excellence, crafted the Type 59 as a sublime blend of elegance and power. Its design exudes refined style, boasting a low-slung body, intricate wire wheels, and the distinctive growl of its 3.3-liter engine. This vehicle exemplifies the pinnacle of collaboration between engineers and designers. Its triumph as a preservation car at Pebble Beach highlights the enduring value of originality and historical authenticity in the world of classic automobiles.

Image: Bugatti

A living symbol of racing legacy, this vehicle bears the marks of its illustrious history in every scuff and scratch. From its leather seats to its wooden steering wheel, each imperfection tells a story. Pre-war legends like René Dreyfus and Jean-Pierre Wimille piloted this machine through some of the most prestigious Grand Prix events of the 1930s, cementing its racing pedigree.

Image: Bugatti

Later, the car found its way into the hands of King Leopold III of Belgium, who added his own touch by repainting it in his signature black and yellow livery. As the first of only six ever produced, this Type 59 Sports is a powerful reminder of Bugatti’s enduring impact on automotive history.

Image: Bugatti

Image: Rolex

Throughout the years, the car has been in the care of various collectors who have all respected its original state. The current owner, Fritz Burkard, has prioritized keeping this historical piece untouched as much as possible, preserving its patina to honor its rich past. This win at Pebble Beach underscores the car’s historical importance and highlights the significance of maintaining the authenticity of classic automobiles.

Image: Rolex

The Rolex 1908, awarded to the Best of Show winner, mirrors the Bugatti’s commitment to preserving history while celebrating precision and elegance. Rolex, a brand synonymous with reliability and craftsmanship, introduced the 1908 model as a nod to its rich heritage. The 1908’s design is understated yet undeniably elegant, reflecting the brand’s focus on timeless design rather than fleeting trends. The watch’s movement, with its meticulous attention to detail, ensures that it doesn’t just tell time—it honors it.

Rolex 1908 reference 52508 Awarded to Best of Show at the 73rd Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance

This particular Rolex 1908 model, paired with a traditional brown alligator leather strap, is crafted in 18-karat yellow gold and features an intense white dial. The strap is distinguished by its green calfskin lining and tone-on-tone stitching, adding to its luxurious look and feel. The timepiece is also notable for its transparent sapphire case back, which reveals the intricate Caliber 7140 movement, showcasing Rolex’s dedication to precision and aesthetics. The engraving “Best of Show 2024” is discreetly placed on the Dualclasp, a double folding clasp made of 18-karat yellow gold, that sits perfectly centered on the wrist, showcasing the meticulous design and craftsmanship for which Rolex is renowned.

Earlier in the day, before the start of the Concours, Rolex was kind enough to give me a fleeting moment with the 1908, and it’s truly breathtaking. Combining classic elements with cutting-edge technology makes the Rolex 1908 a fitting award for such a prestigious event, perfectly complementing the legacy and elegance of the 1934 Bugatti Type 59 Sports.

When the Bugatti Type 59 Sports won Best of Show at the 73rd Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, it marked more than just a victory for a car—it was a recognition of the enduring appeal of something beautifully crafted. The Rolex 1908, awarded to the winner, complements this achievement perfectly, representing a piece that, like the Bugatti, is treasured for its significance and what it symbolizes.

Both the Bugatti Type 59 Sports and the Rolex 1908 showcase the pinnacle of craftsmanship from their respective eras, blending timeless elegance with cutting-edge engineering. The Bugatti, with its sleek lines and powerful engine, represents the golden age of automotive design, while the Rolex 1908 embodies the precision and sophistication of early 20th-century horology. They remind us that true innovation stands the test of time, inspiring enthusiasts and collectors alike.

Image: Rolex

The post Timeless Triumph: 1934 Bugatti Type 59 Sports Wins Best in Show 2024, Crowned with Rolex 1908 first appeared on Yanko Design.

The Rolex Perpetual 1908 brings a fresh perspective to the brand’s tradition of dress watches. Since its founding in 1905 by Hans Wilsdorf, Rolex has been a hallmark of precision, innovation, and elegance in watchmaking. The Perpetual 1908 continues this legacy, merging classic elements with modern sophistication. The latest model for 2024 introduces new materials and design refinements, ensuring it remains at the forefront of luxury timepieces.

Designer: Rolex

This model captures Rolex’s original boldness. Since the brand’s inception, Rolex has pursued Wilsdorf’s vision of wristwatches as high-performance instruments. This watch combines chronometric precision, waterproofness, autonomy, comfort, and durability. It embodies the classic yet modern spirit of the original Oyster Perpetual watches, with a silhouette and dial design that reimagines these timeless elements.

Initially available in 18-karat yellow gold and white gold, paired with either an intense white or matte black dial, the latest update introduces a new 950 platinum version. This version features an ice blue dial exclusive to Rolex watches in this prestigious metal. The case measures 39 mm, balancing presence and comfort on the wrist. The bezel combines domed and fluted design, adding elegance without ostentation. The transparent case back reveals the intricate workings of the movement, showcasing the brand’s commitment to aesthetics and performance.

The dials for the Perpetual 1908 include intense white, matte black, and now an ice blue with a guilloche rice-grain motif. This intricate pattern is created through traditional guillochage, reflecting light beautifully. The dial features Arabic numerals at 3, 9, and 12, with faceted index hour markers in 18-karat gold. The small seconds counter at 6 o’clock is centered within the rice-grain motif, enhancing the dial’s sophisticated look.

The hands are distinctive, with the minute hand shaped like a two-edged sword and the hour hand featuring a pierced circle. These elements blend historical inspiration with modern elegance, maintaining the watch’s refined aesthetic.

At the heart of the Perpetual 1908 is the caliber 7140, a self-winding movement developed in-house by Rolex’s watchmaking engineers. This movement drives the hands of the central hours and minutes and the small seconds hand at 6 o’clock. It incorporates several of Rolex’s cutting-edge technologies, including the Syloxi silicon hairspring and the Chronergy escapement made of a nickel-phosphorus alloy, both resistant to strong magnetic fields. The movement also features Paraflex shock absorbers, protecting the oscillator and escape wheel from shocks. With a power reserve of 66 hours, the caliber 7140 combines performance and elegance. Patents have been filed for this movement, entirely developed and manufactured in-house.

The 2024 model features an ice blue dial decorated with a rice-grain motif, achieved through guillochage. This rosette-like design, centered on the small seconds counter at 6 o’clock, gives the watch exceptional personality and is a tribute to traditional watchmaking infused with Rolex’s know-how and creativity.

The 950 platinum case, a rare and precious material, is striking for its incomparable radiance and silvery white glow. Considered the noblest of metals, it is noted for its exceptional corrosion resistance. The case has gracious lines and a transparent back that allows the refined aesthetics of the movement and the pivoting of the oscillating weight to be admired.

By offering a watch that reveals its movement through a transparent case back, Rolex continues to innovate while echoing its watchmaking tradition. The caliber 7140 features a cut-out oscillating weight in yellow gold with three arms engraved with the words “Chronometer Perpetual” and benefits from an optimized ball bearing. The movement boasts remarkable finishes, including the exclusive Rolex Côtes de Genève, a celebrated traditional watch decoration reinterpreted with a polished groove between each band. The sapphire window, virtually scratchproof, proves that for Rolex, the aesthetics of the movement are as important as its performance.

Introducing the Perpetual 1908 signifies a new direction for Rolex dress watches, blending the brand’s rich heritage with modern innovation. By launching the Perpetual collection and retiring the Cellini line, Rolex reaffirms its commitment to creating technically superior and timelessly elegant timepieces. This model sets a new standard for dress watches, combining historical elements with contemporary design and cutting-edge technology.

Future Rolex dress watches will continue to explore the balance between classic aesthetics and modern advancements. The transparent case back, showcasing the movement, indicates a willingness to innovate while honoring traditional watchmaking artistry. The movement’s use of advanced materials and technologies highlights Rolex’s dedication to performance and durability.

The Perpetual 1908 captures the essence of Rolex’s pursuit of excellence, blending past and future in a luxurious timepiece that speaks to the brand’s storied history and its vision for the future of dress watches.

The post Rolex Perpetual 1908: The 2024 Platinum Model with Ice Blue Dial first appeared on Yanko Design.

The vision behind this LEGO project was to create a stylish art model tailored to a sophisticated adult audience. Surprisingly, the realm of luxury mechanical wristwatches remained unexplored in the LEGO universe. The Rolex Submariner, with its iconic status and unparalleled cachet in pop culture, emerged as the perfect candidate for this venture.

Designer: LEGO + ROLEX

The robust and angular aesthetic of the Submariner’s “super” case design seamlessly translated into the LEGO system. This transformation resulted in an impressive and eye-catching exhibition piece, perfect for display in a home study or office.

Lego

The gold Rolex Submariner is a symbol of luxury and sophistication. Introduced as a premium variant of the classic dive watch, it embodies both robust functionality and opulent design. Originally launched in 1969, the gold Submariner combined Rolex’s innovative diving technology with a striking gold finish, appealing to those who sought both performance and prestige. Over the years, it has evolved with enhancements in materials, movement, and design, maintaining its status as an icon in the world of horology.

Rolex

Design Features and Functions

The LEGO Rolex Submariner boasts several distinctive design features, including:

• Signed Brevet Crown: This detail captures the signature element of the Submariner, highlighting its luxury heritage.
• Functional Rotating Bezel: A fully operational bezel that replicates the functionality of the real Submariner.
• Gilt “Mercedes” Hour Hand: The iconic hour hand, meticulously recreated to reflect the original design.
• Sword Minute and Lollipop Second Hands: These hands add to the authenticity, ensuring that every minute detail is accounted for.
• Luminous Applied Indices: Using glow-in-the-dark LEGO pieces, the model mimics the luminescent markers of the actual watch.
• Date Window: An accurately positioned date window adds to the realism of the model.

This model, with its 1,622 pieces, perfectly showcases how design and engineering come together, highlighting both brands’ dedication to craftsmanship and innovation.

Visual Appeal

The detailed construction of the LEGO Rolex Submariner captures its stunning attention to detail and faithful recreation of the original timepiece. The combination of gold and black elements, along with the intricate design of the bezel and bracelet, highlights the luxurious feel of the Submariner while celebrating the playful creativity inherent in LEGO constructions.

A LEGO Rolex Submariner blends the world of high-end horology with the playful and creative spirit of LEGO. This collaboration pays tribute to an iconic watch while offering a unique building experience that bridges luxury and creativity. The result is a collectible masterpiece that resonates with enthusiasts of both brands.

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