Rolex Calatrava Ref. 2318

Rolex is the absolute king of everyday watches. If it is haute horlogerie or the pinnacle of artistry in finishing techniques you are after, look elsewhere. But for pure everyday function, ruggedness and refinement, Rolex wears the crown.

The brand was founded by Alfred Davis and Hans Wilsdorf in London in 1905. In 1908, the name “Rolex” was registered. The brand would put a host of firsts and records to its name in the decades that followed. From the first chronometer rated wristwatch in 1910 to the first wristwatch with a water resistance of 100 meters in 1953.

A range of waterproofing measures, among which a screw-down-crown, resulted in the famous Oyster case. Up to this day it is the basic platform on which the vast majority of Rolex watches is built. Model names often feature both the Oyster (water resistance) and Perpetual (self-winding movement) terminology, followed by a specific model designation such as Datejust or Submariner.

Both modern and vintage Rolex watches are highly sought-after. They are broadly appreciated for their timeless designs, functional toughness, reliability, brand recognition and value retention.