It was in the majestic Palais Garnier, in Paris, that Rolex set the tone for yet another memorable moment in its beautiful and enduring relationship with music. The occasion was an extraordinary gala featuring the Vienna Philharmonic, conducted by Yannick Nézet-Séguin, and a cast of prestigious Rolex testimonees such as Juan Diego Flórez, Sonya Yoncheva, and Yuja Wang. The event, marking the 150th anniversary of the Opéra National de Paris, proved to be far more than a concert: it was a statement of the brand’s philosophy, where time is also measured in art, emotion, and commitment.
For over half a century, Rolex has invested in culture with the same precision and vision it brings to the development of its legendary timepieces. Through the Perpetual Arts initiative, the Swiss brand has become a vital force in supporting classical music, forging strong ties with theatres, festivals, orchestras, and artists across the globe. Music, for this Swiss watchmaker, alongside cinema and architecture, is more than an artistic discipline: it is a universal language that expresses emotion, rigour, and excellence, values the maison shares and actively nurtures. This dedication is reflected in collaborations with leading institutions such as the Metropolitan Opera in New York, Teatro alla Scala in Milan, the Royal Opera House in London, the Elbphilharmonie in Hamburg and, of course, the Opéra National de Paris itself, an official partner since 2014.
However, Rolex’s presence in the world of music is not confined to behind the scenes. The brand supports a remarkable group of performers, its testimonees, who represent the finest in contemporary vocal and instrumental artistry. Names such as Cecilia Bartoli, Jonas Kaufmann, Gustavo Dudamel, Hélène Grimaud, Michael Bublé, and Anoushka Shankar form part of this constellation that echoes the brand’s passion for artistic excellence.
Rolex’s commitment goes beyond supporting established artists: the maison believes in the future of music and invests in nurturing the next generation. Through support for initiatives such as the Operalia competition, the Vienna Philharmonic Academy, or the first youth opera orchestra of the Opéra National de Paris, the Swiss watchmaker cultivates young talent and helps to ensure the continuity of the world’s musical heritage.
In the 21st century, Rolex continues to compose its score in the history of music. Each note, each partnership, each illuminated stage reinforces an idea that sets it apart: true excellence is that which is passed on, that which inspires, and that which endures. Like a perfect musical chord – eternal, precise, and profoundly human.
