Rolex and motorsport
THE 24 HOURS OF LE MANS
The centenary edition of the 24 Hours of Le Mans will take place on June 10th and 11th, 2023, an event that, since its inception, has celebrated endurance and mechanical excellence. Rolex has been a Partner and Official Timekeeper of this legendary race since 2001.
THE CENTENARY OF A LEGENDARY RACE
Established in 1923, the 24 Hours of Le Mans is the oldest and one of the most prestigious motor races in the world. It tests both the reliability of the cars and the physical and mental endurance of the drivers, and attracts some of the biggest names in motorsport. Sixty-two crews, each composed of three drivers, compete on the Circuit de la Sarthe – a 13.6-kilometer track – at the wheel of racing cars divided into three categories: prototype and Grand Touring vehicles. Victory goes to the crew that covers the greatest distance – which can be some 5,300 kilometers – in 24 hours. Rolex has been a partner of the event since 2001 as the Official Timekeeper.
THE CENTENARY OF A LEGENDARY RACE
Established in 1923, the 24 Hours of Le Mans is the oldest and one of the most prestigious motor races in the world. It tests both the reliability of the cars and the physical and mental endurance of the drivers, and attracts some of the biggest names in motorsport. Sixty-two crews, each composed of three drivers, compete on the Circuit de la Sarthe – a 13.6-kilometer track – at the wheel of racing cars divided into three categories: prototype and Grand Touring vehicles. Victory goes to the crew that covers the greatest distance – which can be some 5,300 kilometers – in 24 hours. Rolex has been a partner of the event since 2001 as the Official Timekeeper.
A CENTURY OF INNOVATIONS
Since its first edition, this legendary event has been an ideal testing ground for the many technological advances in motorsports. Experimentation with a new surface as early as the 1920s – still viable today – safety, engine development and aerodynamics, but also the exclusive use since 2022 of a 100% renewable biofuel, are all developments that mark a century of progress driven by this legendary endurance race.
TOM KRISTENSEN, OR “MR. LE MANS”
He owes his nickname to his nine victories at the 24 Hours of Le Mans. The most successful driver in the history of this race, Tom Kristensen won it on his very first attempt in 1997. A Rolex Testimonial since 2010, the Dane was crowned World Endurance Champion in 2013 and is, in 2023, the global ambassador for the centenary edition of the 24 Hours of Le Mans. “A victory at Le Mans stays with you forever. When I think about the history of the race and Rolex’s commitment to motorsport, I feel great pride, but also humility. The brand and this discipline represent a perfect alliance, marked by the pursuit of excellence, perseverance, technical innovation, and pushing beyond one's limits.”
THE COSMOGRAPH DAYTONA: A UNIQUE REWARD
The winners of the top category at the 24 Hours of Le Mans are presented with an Oyster Perpetual Cosmograph Daytona specially engraved for the occasion. A legendary timepiece whose distinctive design has become iconic, the Cosmograph Daytona is emblematic of Rolex's expertise. Featuring a movement entirely designed and manufactured in-house, it is distinguished by its chronometric precision as well as its unwavering reliability.
THE COSMOGRAPH DAYTONA: A UNIQUE REWARD
The winners of the top category at the 24 Hours of Le Mans are presented with an Oyster Perpetual Cosmograph Daytona specially engraved for the occasion. A legendary timepiece whose distinctive design has become iconic, the Cosmograph Daytona is emblematic of Rolex's expertise. Featuring a movement entirely designed and manufactured in-house, it is distinguished by its chronometric precision as well as its unwavering reliability.
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