Ripped from the headlines or rather headlines ripped from a Rolex advertisement.

[EzraPound]

A tidbit from the November 18, 1966 J. Walter Thompson (JWT) Company News (I've always contended though Hans Wilsdorf created the watch, JWT created the myth). Note the Rolex "Destiny" campaign was launched in 1955 (I think).

[ibzk]

Idk, any luxury brand of the time and still relevant would've had a similar story to share

[AJMarcus]

I think you are spot on OP. The adventure and glory attached to the brand was a large part of its brand history that still exists today. The symbol of success worn by the adventurers and men of action was a big part of the romanticism of Rolex. I still recall fondly being mesmerized as a youth by the Rolex ads in National Geographic magazine with Rolex timepieces being worn by pilots, archaeologists, military men and racing car drivers!!