For more than half a century, the relationship between Rolex and the elite world of yachting has proved watertight
On the spirited start line at the annual Rolex TP52 World Championship, the stakes are high for the top yacht-racing teams on the planet. Crossing the line first provides a significant tactical and psychological advantage in a sport where races are decided by mere seconds and metres.
Hitting the line at speed on a powerful 52- or 72-foot yacht with around 19 professional sailors, each focused on a specific task, is complex. “Precise timing and coordination from the whole crew is required to position the boat in the best place, then to defend that spot before accelerating at the precise moment to hit the line at speed,” says Paul Cayard, a world-renowned sailor who understands the simmering pressure of the start-line countdown and the need to execute this critical moment flawlessly.
Accurate time-keeping and highly tuned teamwork are clear requirements at the core of this pressure-cooker moment. Given Rolex’s focal position in developing robust, waterproof wristwatches with the precision of a marine chronometer, it is only natural that the dynamic sport of yachting has developed an in-depth allegiance with the brand since the late 1950s.
See also: Time Travel: Discover 9 Of The Best World-Time Watches
Today, Rolex is title sponsor of 15 major international events, from the highest-level grand prix competition at the Rolex TP52 World Championship through to leading offshore races, such as the Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race.
