Dubai and the UAE are recognised around the world as a hub of style, incredible wealth, and unrivalled experiences. It’s somewhere that is frequented by the rich and famous, and has become a style-centric hotspot; a place where many of the top and most iconic luxury brands and fashion houses want to be seen, recognised, and valued.
Rolex is one such brand that has long enjoyed the luxury status that Dubai gives in droves – with this article all about the celebrities who have connected themselves to the Rolex brand, particularly in and around the UAE.
But first, a little about Rolex and how it has garnered such an immense A-list following.
How Rolex Has Become a Brand for the Rich and Famous
As is the case across most luxury brands, there are a number of factors contributing towards the success of Rolex. In order to become the most well-known and highly regarded luxury watch brand in the world, Rolex has consistently delivered unrivalled quality across its collections and individual models, and has striven to create innovative models that constantly surpass expectations.
A great example of this can be seen across the professional collection, which contains models including the Submariner, Daytona, and Sea-Dweller. The design and manufacturing behind these professional models links them directly back to the sports for which they were created – facilitating practical use alongside timeless and effortless style.
But it’s not all working quality and innovation that pushes Rolex to the forefront of the market. As has become the norm across many top luxury brands, Rolex feeds its status by releasing watches in exceptionally limited numbers – ensuring that the high demand is never quite met by supply. This ensures that every watch that is resold and then relisted on the second-hand market remains highly sought after – pushing the prices high.
All of this culminates in Rolex being recognised as a brand that is high quality, highly coveted, and difficult to get hold of. Here are some of the celebrity fans who have been seen wearing or collecting Rolex watches, and who contribute towards the exceptionally high demand and status of the brand and its timepieces.
Celebrities Who Love Rolex
Celebrity fandom has become a core part of the Rolex brand marketing strategy, and is one of the reasons why Rolex watches are directly connected with some of the leading characters in movies and A-listers on the red carpet.
You only have to look at the professional collection to see how famous names and faces have always been used as part of the Rolex brand story – with the creator always making sure that Rolex watches were being worn by the most daring and the most impressive individuals in their craft. Wilsdorf, the man behind Rolex, knew that people who broke records would be front-page news – and that if they were wearing (and by extension helping to sell a Rolex), that was good publicity for the brand.
So, the celebrity connection with Rolex grew – with the following names all known to endorse the brand as official and unofficial ambassadors.
Jackie Stewart
As a brand that has been around since 1905, Rolex certainly recognises the value of vintage as well as modern design concepts – with the same ideology stretching into their celebrity ambassador connections. Jackie Stewart, once a British Formula One race car driver, has been working with and showcasing the Rolex brand for upwards of 45 years, and is an excellent asset on the world stage for Rolex.
Motor racing is big business in Dubai and the UAE, with Stewart’s name recognised across the globe for both his sporting prowess and other work.
David and Victoria Beckham
The powerhouse couple span both the worlds of professional sport and fashion, making them the ideal fit for a stage in Dubai, as well as other countries and destinations around the world. Their combined love of the Rolex brand has long been invaluable for the brand, with sponsorship working alongside a genuine appreciation for and love of the watches that Rolex produces.
Tiger Woods
Another globally recognised sports star and athlete who, despite some controversial news, remains a part of the Rolex brand in terms of his ambassador status and support. This partnership is evidence of Rolex’s desire to support and work with those at the top of their game, both when playing the sport and off the course or field – demonstrating Rolex’s prowess as a lifestyle watch, and one which can be worn on duty and off duty.
Roger Federer
Sports stars are among some of the biggest names on the global stage, and so Rolex’s partnership with Roger Federer epitomises everything that gives the brand its coveted, high-end status. Combining impeccable style with durability, excellence, and a refined level of craftsmanship, Federer is an excellent choice for the brand and epitomises its high quality and value.
The Oscars and Movie Partnerships
Early celebrity ambassadors and brand connections tended to revolve around the sports world, as it was this market that Rolex sought to influence with the professional range. However, the timeless style of each and every Rolex – professional or not – makes the brand a much more versatile option for celebrities, with the brand expanding its ambassador support into other industries.
The movie industry and Rolex’s sponsorship of The Oscars has created a whole new market in Dubai and around the world, giving the brand a place in the spotlight on the big and small screen.
Partnerships with Martin Scorsese and James Cameron, with the James Bond movies, and with other artistic ventures, constantly draw attention to the timeless design and style of a Rolex watch – driving demand across a whole new audience who aren’t into sports but are drawn to fashion and style.
Investing in Your Own Rolex Timepiece
If, like the aforementioned celebrity ambassadors, you are keen to invest in a Rolex and become a part of the brand’s exciting history, you can invest in your own timepiece via a reputable second-hand seller. A good seller will offer advice, as well as the proper authentication certificates and detailed information about your purchase, ensuring that your investment is sound and secure.
