Beyond the art of watchmaking, Rolex is immersed in the dynamic world of film
The worlds of horology and cinema have a surprising amount in common. Both employ intricate technology and human creativity, talent and aspiration to transport the imagination and generate pleasure. And, more than any other watch brand, Rolex has been linked to the immersive powers of moviemaking.
Not only have Rolex timepieces appeared in iconic films over many decades, but the brand’s support of the Academy Awards—and of young filmmakers through its philanthropic work—is legendary.
See also: 5 Rolex Watches Worn By Roger Federer
Getting into character
For the past 50 years in cinema, household names like Paul Newman, Harrison Ford and Marlon Brando have brandished a Rolex on the silver screen—everything from Bubblebacks and Submariners to GMT-Masters.
But in many instances, the appearance of these Rolex watches was purely organic. No PR stunts or big buyouts for Rolex; the actors and actresses simply insisted on wearing their watches, or the wardrobe department deciding it was an essential way of portraying the character.
Sometimes the script demanded it. In the 1960 film The Fugitive Kind, the character Valentine Xavier—played by Marlon Brando—references his Rolex chronometer in dialogue. As a result, the watch became part of the storytelling and an element of the film’s plot.
See also: At US$17.7 Million, Paul Newman’s Rolex Is The Most Expensive Wristwatch Ever Sold
More recently, the roles have been reversed, with four distinguished filmmakers becoming Rolex Testimonees—Kathryn Bigelow, James Cameron, Alejandro González Iñárritu and Martin Scorsese: all Academy Award winners, with their films boasting 57 Oscar wins and nominations between them. These four filmmakers have the ability to connect with people across generations, cultures and boundaries—an openness that Rolex tries to foster.
