Throughout the past century, the world of Motorsport has given us classic vehicles, prestigious events, iconic drivers and enduring moments. Of course, those four adjectives – classic, prestigious, iconic, enduring – can also be linked to the Rolex brand, so it is fitting that Rolex and Motorsport have a strong association.
Indeed, the Swiss luxury watch manufacturer has clear ties with the worlds of Formula One, endurance racing and classic car events, as well as a long-standing partnership with 3x Formula One World Drivers’ Champion, Jackie Stewart. Moreover, the company has produced timepieces designed to meet the complicated needs of racing drivers.
Rolex and Formula One
Although Rolex’s history with motor racing dates all the way back to the 1930s, it has been given a renewed emphasis in recent years, through a professional relationship with Formula One. In 2013, the watch manufacturer gained Global Partner status and was named as the official F1 timekeeper, replacing Tag Heuer.
In addition to its formal partnership with the sport itself, Rolex are also long-time sponsors of one of its most recognizable figures – the legendary Jackie Stewart. This association began in 1968, during Stewart’s active racing career, and has continued into his retirement. Today, he serves as an ambassador and spokesman for the brand.
Other Racing Events
The links between Rolex and car racing do not stop there, and the company serves as the title sponsor of one of the world’s best-known endurance races – The Rolex 24 At Daytona. The event, held at Daytona International Speedway in Florida, is part of what is considered the Triple Crown of endurance racing.
Rolex is also a major sponsor of one of the other Triple Crown events – The 24 Hours of Le Mans – which is the oldest event of its kind and nicknamed “the Grand Prix of Efficiency”. The 9x winner Tom Kristensen, who is the most successful driver in the event’s history, also has an endorsement deal with the Swiss watch company.
Other major race car events which benefit from Rolex involvement include the Goodwood Revival, which is a three-day festival celebrating the golden era of motor racing from the 1950s and 1960s, as well as Monterey Classic Car Week. During that event, the Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion provides four days of classic car racing.
Rolex Cosmograph Daytona
Many of the timepieces in the Rolex collection are perfectly suited for use by racing car drivers, but the Cosmograph Daytona was specifically designed with the needs of Motorsport competitors in mind. Available in Rolesor; the company’s combination of gold and stainless steel, the watch is both stylish and functional.
Every year, a Rolex Cosmograph Daytona is awarded as a prize to the winner of the Rolex 24 At Daytona competition. The tachymetric scale on the bezel allows drivers to accurately keep track of their average speed, while the dial contains three counters, which are useful for mapping out lap times and race tactics.
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