Rolex’s History of Annual New Model Releases

[Marciano]

I’m curious, has Rolex traditionally introduced new models annually, or is this a recent practice? With Watches and Wonders approaching, I’m interested in understanding how long they’ve maintained this trend.


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[thesharkfactor]

It is tradition, new watch models/variations are announced at (used to be Basel) Watches & Wonders annual event.

[padi56]

Originally Posted by Marciano

I’m curious, has Rolex traditionally introduced new models annually, or is this a recent practice? With Watches and Wonders approaching, I’m interested in understanding how long they’ve maintained this trend.


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In the real world you could count of one hand the real new models introduced over the passed 24 years. As most are just cosmetically changed old ones, but I live in hope that perhaps this year they might introduced something exciting, but don"t hold your breath.

[brandrea]

Originally Posted by thesharkfactor

It is tradition, new watch models/variations are announced at (used to be Basel) Watches & Wonders annual event.

This with a few mid year releases sprinkled in for good measure (although not common). I think they surprised everyone last year with the
Le Mans.

I sure miss the Basel World event. It was on my bucket list.

[77T]

Originally Posted by Marciano

I’m curious, has Rolex traditionally introduced new models annually, or is this a recent practice? With Watches and Wonders approaching, I’m interested in understanding how long they’ve maintained this trend.


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Just as a broader answer...

The tradition of Swiss watch manufacturers holding annual expositions to showcase their new watches dates back to the early 20th century.

The first major exposition of this kind was the Basel Watch Fair, which was established in 1917 in Basel, Switzerland. The fair provided an opportunity for watchmakers to present their latest innovations and designs to retailers, distributors, and the general public.

Rolex, of course, joined into the show to raise their own brand's images.

Over the years, the Basel Watch Fair grew in popularity and became an important event in the watch industry. It served as a platform for Swiss watch manufacturers to showcase their craftsmanship, technical advancements, and new collections.

In recent years, the Basel Watch Fair underwent some changes and rebranded as Baselworld. However, due to various factors, including the rise of digital platforms and changing dynamics in the industry, the fair faced various challenges and atelier support also waned - it eventually closed in 2019.

Despite the discontinuation of Baselworld, Swiss watch manufacturers continue to hold annual expositions and trade shows like Watches and Wonders to display their latest timepieces.


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