Book Delves Into World of Rolex—Including Watch That Climbed Everest

More than just a status symbol, Rolex timepieces are functional and technical above all else. The new book Rolex Philosophy illustrates the brand’s rich history—and all of the adventure that came with it—through 224 pages of photographs, testimonials, previously unpublished interviews, and archived materials.

One highlight: Edmund Hillary and sherpa Tenzing Norgay were wearing Rolex watches when they became the first two men to reach the summit of Mount Everest, the world’s highest mountain, on May 29, 1953. As cited in the book: “‘The Rolex Oyster Perpetual watches, with which members of the British team were equipped, again proved their dependability on Everest,’ wrote the leader of the expedition, Sir John Hunt, on his return. ‘We were delighted that they kept such accurate time. This ensured that synchronization of the time between the members of the team was maintained throughout…. They performed splendidly, and we have indeed come to look upon Rolex Oysters as an important part of high-climbing equipment.’”

Other models featured in Rolex Philosophy—which is written by jewelry expert Mara Cappelletti and published by ACC Art Books ($65)—are shown below, including the Explorer II, a later iteration of the Oyster Perpetuals that Hillary and Norgay wore. Insights on each watch are quoted from the book.