Rolex and the Arts

Since it was founded in the early 20th century, Rolex has encouraged visionary and talented individuals who make a meaningful contribution to the world. In keeping with this long tradition, the company fosters the arts and individual artists through sponsorship and philanthropy.

Rolex’s commitment to culture began in the 1970s with the forging of a unique relationship with New Zealand soprano Dame Kiri Te Kanawa. Over the years, this pioneering partnership has been extended to many other famous names in the arts, as well as to prestigious cultural events.

In classical music, Rolex has developed strong links with distinguished performers including Plácido Domingo (from 1982 onwards) and Rolando Villazón, a young tenor whose talent is now widely recognised. Among the leading women vocalists of our time, Renée Fleming and Cecilia Bartoli are also linked to Rolex. Major instrumental performers, including violinist Maxim Vengerov, are part of the company’s cultural network.

In contemporary music, Rolex is associated with artists such as jazz pianist and singer Diana Krall, as well as sitar player Anoushka Shankar.

Several world-renowned international cultural events benefit from Rolex’s sponsorship, including Operalia, founded by Plácido Domingo in 1993, and the Verbier Festival. Since 2006, Rolex has been proud to have links with the Monte-Carlo Opera and La Scala in Milan.

Rolex’s cultural interests include dance, classical as well as contemporary. The company has offered support to dancers such as Sylvie Guillem and Yuan Yuan Tan, and choreographer William Forsythe.

It was with the same determination to champion individual excellence in the arts that, in 2002, the company established the philanthropic Rolex Mentor and Protégé Arts Initiative.

Whether it is extended to exceptional artists or to cultural events, the support given by Rolex helps promote culture worldwide and allows the powerful experiences that culture creates to be shared by a wide audience.