The Iconic Rolex Coronet – ‘A Crown for Every Achievement’

When it comes to the world of luxury watches, there is indeed only one logo that has become a worldwide recognised symbol – the iconic Rolex coronet. The brand that was established by young Hans Wilsdorf partnering with his brother-in-law Alfred James David has today become synonymous with ultimate class and luxury. People who ideally possess little interest in luxury timepieces also recognise and admire this iconic brand. You may also be aware that while Rolex watches retain a high resale value with time, people often choose to 'sell my Rolex' or 'sell Rolex watches' to raise instant cash. 

But, do you know how the historic Rolex crown logo originated? And how much it has changed across the years? Thus, let's today take a closer look and know about one of the most popular yet mystifying 'five-pointed' coronet symbol that has become instantly recognisable throughout the globe. 

The Name 'Rolex' 

While the company was working hard to make its place in a competitive market, Rolex in its early years underwent many changes. The 24-year-old Hans Wilsdorf started a watch company in 1903 with his business partner, Alfred Davis. The company was making quality timepieces under the name 'Wilsdorf & Davis' until 1908. Soon, the name was changed to the one that has today become synonymous with luxury, quality and precision – Rolex. 

During Wilsdorf working life, he was asked a question many times, that is, 'Why Rolex?' However, the young founder always stayed evasive and ambivalent about the origin of the legendary name 'Rolex'. While some guesstimate the name was derived from the French phrase 'Houloguorie Exquise' that means 'exquisite watchmaking', others believe it was chosen as it referred to the sound of the timepiece being wound.

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However, Hans Wilsdorf is known to claim that the name 'Rolex' was selected because it would be easy to pronounce in many languages and also, would be hard to misspell. Moreover, the name was small enough to look clean and uncluttered on the dial of his watches. Although all these claims are perfectly rational, they yet carry an air of mystery behind the world's most famous watch brand name. 

The Iconic 'Five-Pointed' Crown Insignia

Interestingly, many speculations exist regarding the origin of the historic Rolex crown. Like the enigmatic encircling the name 'Rolex', there is also similar ambiguity regarding the logo of the coronet. While Wilsdorf did not ever provide any satisfying answers as to why the crown-shaped design was chosen, Rolex's fans and aficionados came up with their own ideas and theories. 

Some believe that the coronet represents the five fingers of the hand on which the watch is worn. Others claim that the five points on the crown refer to the numbers of letters in the brand's name. There are many such complicated back-stories, but none of them was confirmed. All speculations aside, the fact is that:

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The 'five-pointed' crown logo of Rolex represents the exclusivity, wealth, class and power. These are all the core factors that the elite company wished to associate itself with right from its earliest days. Moreover, the crown logo carries the connotation of prestige and honour inherently with it, thereby complementing the brand's catchphrase – 'A Crown for Every Achievement'. 

Slight Changes over the Years

Unlike many brands, the design of the Rolex's logo has changed slightly over the years. The crown symbol may have been more elongated or little bit squatter from time to time. But it was not being modified to any extent that would make a usual observer notice. 

However, other facets of the branding that undergone many significant changes include the colour of the Rolex coronet. Initially, the crown was gold in colour, but it was darkened to a more bronzed colour between 1965 and 2002. But, the 'crown' was restored to the original gold colour, and it is persisting till date.

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The capitalised text 'ROLEX' is usually seen in a British deep, racing green. Interestingly, the green and gold colours of the brand are today the most recognised combinations in the luxury watch industry, representing a sense of royalty and the richness of money. 

Every Rolex watch is designed to exacting standards, utilising the most delicate elements on the earth that enable them to keep hold of their value with time. And, it is indeed good news for those who are looking to 'sell Rolex watches' or 'sell my Rolex watch' and raise some fast cash. However, besides being the iconic signature, the Rolex coronet symbol that embellishes each Rolex watch serves as a tenuous reminder of the fact – A Rolex watch is a 'Crown' to mark every important milestone for those who own it.