It is hard to say when it first began, but Rolex has always been depicted as the symbol of success and power incarnate. In fact, Hollywood has always had a love affair with Rolex. There are always overt mentions of the brand as one that only the richest and most famous can possess, one that, once possessed, is cherished as the symbolic representation of “having made it” in the world, and a possession worthy of being passed down through generations as a precious family heirloom.
Rolex, the Hollywood Glam Symbol
Depicting a character wearing a Rolex is still the most go to visual for filmmakers to communicate status, power, and aspiration quickly and effectively. This practice can be traced back to the 1960s when beloved actor and racer Paul Newman popularized the Rolex Daytona. This association of the luxury brand with the top actor became such a phenomenon that later the watch was nicknamed the “Paul Newman Daytona,” which became one of the most sought after Rolexes in history. Today, it is one of the most replicated Rolex designs. Countless homage and replica versions of this Rolex watch model exist, especially with the signature “exotic dial” design. Many cheaper models copy the contrasting subdials and Art Deco numerals.
Another classic movie franchise fan of the Rolex brand is the James Bond series. Rolex watches have been sported by various popular Bond actors, including heartthrobs like Sean Connery, Roger Moore, and Daniel Craig. From Connery’s Submariner in Dr. No, back in 1962, to Craig’s Omega era, Rolex Submariners are synonymous with Bond’s suave image. And now the “Bond Sub” is one of the most replicated watches ever. Fakes often exaggerate the bezel font, crown size, or lume for drama. Another notable Hollywood appearance of Rolex watches is on Tom Cruise in American Made in 2017. Cruise wore a vintage Rolex GMT Master, a nod to luxury 1980s styling. This once again renewed the replicas frenzy mimicking the signature Pepsi bezel, though cheaper versions often struggle to match the correct “faded” patina.
Music Industry’s Love Song for Rolex
Hollywood is just one of the Rolex watch admirers. The music industry is also filled with Rolex enthusiasts. Jay Z and his Gold diamond encrusted Day Date dominated paparazzi sites for months after he debuted his expensive power move accessory. Jay Z famously referenced his Rolex Day Date in lyrics and public appearances, cementing its place in hip hop culture. Today, look alike fake Day Dates flood markets, giving fans the chance to enjoy the feel of luxury watches at a fraction of the cost. But we will never forget the craze and media frenzy Elvis Presley generated with his Rolex King Midas. Elvis wore the King Midas, a bold asymmetrical Rolex given to him by RCA in 1970. However, this particular design still remains fairly exclusive even in the replica world due to its unusual shape, but some homage brands attempt angular gold toned designs, which also cost a pretty buck.
Rolex Passion for Sports
Few brands can boast the same influence as Rolex. The brand especially has a strong legacy in the world of sports. Its dynamic yet timeless designs have garnered a devoted following among many sports legends. Roger Federer, wearing any one of his many impressive Rolexes at Wimbledon as a player and now as a spectator, still enthralls fans to no end. Federer has lifted Wimbledon trophies wearing a Rolex Datejust and later sporting a GMT Master II “Batman. The replica counterpart of “Batman” with a signature blue or black ceramic bezel is a heavily faked design, but these replicas often cannot replicate the Rolex’s patented ceramic sheen.
Tiger Woods, the Golf legend, also endorses Rolex. Woods, a longtime Rolex ambassador, has often been photographed wearing the Rolex Deepsea. This is also a highly in demand Rolex replica. The replicas attempt to copy its distinctive oversized case, but they usually fail to capture the depth rating engravings and case thickness precisely.
Where homage brands like Steinhart and Invicta often blur the line between tribute and imitation, the replicas remain a solid option for Rolex enthusiasts who cannot afford the real thing or just do not believe in spending thousands of dollars on accessories.