Rolex, the luxury Swiss watch manufacturer, has announced the closure of its offices in Sandton after 76 years in South Africa.
- The announcement by the luxury Swiss watch manufacturer comes as other international brands have signalled their intention to also exit the country.
- Rolex is considered to be one of the world’s leading watch brands, drawing mixed attention in South Africa.
- Despite the closure of its official office, Rolex will remain accessible to South African customers through its established network of Official Retailers.
- Visit www.sandtontimes.co.za for more stories.
After an enduring presence of 76 years, Rolex has announced the closure of its offices in Sandton, South Africa. This decision marks the end of an era that began in 1948 when Rolex Watch Company (South Africa) (PTY) Ltd first opened in the centre of Johannesburg, later relocating to Sandton in 1997.
Rolex’s journey in South Africa has been a significant one, reflecting its commitment to representing the brand’s iconic products and core values in the region. The decision to close its South African affiliate comes amidst changing local markets and economic conditions that no longer justify maintaining an official office in the country, a spokesperson for the brand told The Sandton Times. However, Rolex will continue its presence through its network of Official Retailers, ensuring that enthusiasts and collectors can still access their popular timepieces.
Unfortunately, local markets and conjuncture have changed and no longer warrant the presence of an official Rolex affiliate. The brand will therefore close its Sandton office in June 2024 but will remain active in the region through its Official Retailer network.
// Rolex Spokesperson
Headquartered in Geneva, Rolex is globally renowned for its expertise and the exceptional quality of its watches. The brand’s Oyster Perpetual and Cellini watches are celebrated for their precision, performance, and reliability, earning the certification of Superlative Chronometers. These timepieces are not just symbols of luxury but embody a philosophy of perpetual excellence, a vision set forth by Rolex’s founder, Hans Wilsdorf.
The company introduced several ground-breaking innovations, including the Oyster, the first waterproof wristwatch, in 1926, and the Perpetual rotor self-winding mechanism in 1931. Over its storied history, Rolex has registered more than 500 patents, demonstrating its relentless pursuit of innovation and perfection. Beyond watchmaking, Rolex is actively involved in supporting various fields such as the arts and culture, sports, exploration, and environmental conservation.
The closure of the Sandton office is scheduled for next month. Despite this, Rolex’s impact in South Africa will continue through its Official Retailer network. Enthusiasts can still find Rolex timepieces at several locations in Johannesburg:
- The Vault: Located in Melrose Arch, High Street, Shop 11, Johannesburg
- Shemer Jewellers: Situated at Shop U9 & U10 Bedford Centre, Smith Road, Bedfordview
- Charles Greig: Found at Cnr Jan Smuts Avenue and William Nicol Drive, 6th Rd, Hyde Park Corner Shop U34 Middle Mall, Johannesburg
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