The finest buildings
With an acute understanding of the harmony between form and function, Rolex has naturally forged close ties with the renowned architects who have been commissioned to design its own buildings around the world. These architects include Michael Graves (Lititz Watch Technicum, Pennsylvania, US), Fumihiko Maki (Rolex Toyocho Building) and SANAA principals Kazuyo Sejima and Ryue Nishizawa (the Rolex Learning Center for EPFL in Lausanne).
Whether in producing the finest watches or in the construction of its own buildings, Rolex is concerned with sustainability. Two of Rolex’s most recent projects showcase the brand’s ongoing pursuit of environmentally sound architecture, continuous innovation, precision and the best use of space.
In Dallas, Japanese architect Kengo Kuma designed, a seven-storey office tower that houses Rolex’s sales and service centre. Featuring a series of planted terraces on every floor, its form and environmental qualities have set new benchmarks in the city. The adventurous and environmentally sophisticated design typical of Kuma’s work uses natural light, space and subtly modulated surfaces.
In New York City, Sir David Chipperfield is redesigning the headquarters of Rolex USA and is, he says, “creating an exemplary building befitting the heritage and culture of the Rolex brand”. On completion, the stacked, jagged, 25-storey tower will qualify for LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Platinum certification, representing the highest level of environmental friendliness and sustainable energy consumption.
