Rolex Founder Hans Wilsdorf (1881-1960)
Hans Wilsdorf is the man that all Rolex enthusiast owe a debt of gratitude. There have only been two managing directors of Rolex since Hans Wilsdorf passed away in 1960. André Heiniger was the second managing director and in 1992 his son Patrick Heiniger took over and is the current managing director today.
Hans Wilsdorf, not only founded Rolex, but shaped it into the legendary company it is today. It was Hans Wilsdorf's, wit, wisdom and will that brought the world so many striking innovations, like the first waterproof watch, as well as the first automatic watch, and the first watch with a date complication.
This vintage Rolex advertisement from 1948 features Hans Wilsdorf himself:
Watchman
of our Time
For more than forty years this master craftsman has sponsored the vital element of precision time throughout the world. Pioneer of the Chronometer wrist watch...Inventor of the waterproof...Hans Wilsdorf conceived and perfected the rotary perpetual principle, exclusive with ROLEX, which accommodates leadership to men who can afford the best.
Heads of Governments, ranking Army, Navy and Air Corps personnel, and key executives of industry affect on permanent worth by their selection. Far more ROLEX Oyster Perpetuals are bought in this price class than any other wrist Chronometer that is made. "Officially certified accuracy."
ROLEX
Masterpiece of Watch Craftsmanship