A LANDMARK EXHIBITION PREMIERING
IN SHANGHAI
This year, Rolex marks the centenary of the Oyster. The brand’s first waterproof wristwatch. A symbol of innovation that has accompanied some of the greatest achievements in human endeavour.
To celebrate the anniversary of this foundational invention, Rolex presents Oyster Story, a landmark exhibition dedicated to its origins and enduring legacy. Rooted in Hans Wilsdorf’s visionary belief in a waterproof and dustproof wristwatch that could combine precision and reliability in all conditions, the Oyster stands as the embodiment of his forward-thinking ambition.
Held at the West Bund Dome in Shanghai from 10 June to 28 June 2026, Oyster Story takes us on a journey through Hans Wilsdorf’s original intuition and reveals how his pioneering vision led to a defining breakthrough – one that not only shaped the identity of Rolex, but also redefined the future of watchmaking.
Collector pieces, historic and contemporary watches, iconic wearers, technical innovations and immersive installations: the exhibition unveils the epic story of the Oyster in an entirely new light.
This exceptional event also marks the opening of a broader programme of celebrations dedicated to the Oyster’s first century, with additional chapters of this centenary tribute still to come.
AN IMMERSIVE JOURNEY THROUGH TIME
Oyster Story is a centenary celebration and a historic milestone for Rolex. Conceived as a narrative that unfolds through several spaces, the exhibition takes visitors through a world in constant motion – retracing the spirit of invention that gave rise to the Oyster and that continues to define the brand today.
The main pavilion is dedicated to the Oyster – its origins, its evolutions and the iconic wearers who have helped forge the reputation of Rolex watches.
A gathering of watches – from rare and iconic models to remarkable contemporary creations – is presented alongside authentic components that reveal the ingenuity behind each watch. Together, they offer a deeper insight into the foundations of the Oyster and the vision that has shaped Rolex over the past hundred years.
A selection of exceptional Rolex timepieces is also showcased. Worn by explorers and pioneers, these watches have accompanied some of the greatest achievements in human history, from the deepest depths of the oceans to the highest peaks and even into space.
On the first floor of this pavilion, visitors can discover an exclusive display of 100 portraits of iconic Rolex watch wearers, alongside a rare exhibition of timepieces featuring heritage and contemporary models, as well as privately owned watches kindly loaned for the event.
The story continues in the ‘SUPERLATIVE’ pavilion, which explores the brand’s watchmaking vision and its complete mastery in the manufacture and maintenance of its timepieces.
Cases, bezels, bracelets, dials, materials, movements: every stage of watchmaking is showcased here, from design to final inspections. Visitors can also learn more about the enhanced Superlative Chronometer certification that comes with every new Rolex watch.
At the heart of this pavilion, an immersive experience is dedicated to the optical atomic clock. Developed by Rolex as an ultra-precise reference instrument, it uses laser-stimulated rubidium atoms to define the second with exceptional accuracy. The experience highlights Rolex’s contribution to the development of this unique clock, as well as its importance within the Superlative Chronometer certification programme.
The Oyster Story exhibition also includes a cinema room that screens a film retracing the history of the Oyster. The film shows how the legend of this iconic watch was forged on the wrists of pioneers and trailblazers who have shaped the modern world, as well as those of inspiring personalities – athletes, artists and conservationists who have constantly pushed the frontiers of their fields and broadened the horizons of our knowledge.
A Library Lounge brings together a selection of publications highlighting the world of Rolex, with topics ranging from watchmaking to sports, the arts and the preservation of the planet.
Encircling the exhibition space, large screens line a gallery, offering visitors a glimpse into the world of Rolex. Watches and components, Rolex Testimonees, as well as iconic wearers, sport, culture and nature: these elements are brought together in a cyclical, colour-themed display that weaves unexpected connections between the brand’s various universes.
With Oyster Story, Rolex celebrates a century of human and technical achievement. A story that continues to be written today, both in the manufacture’s workshops and through the brand’s various partnerships. By pursuing its relentless quest for excellence, Rolex paves the way for new accomplishments and helps shape the future of watchmaking.
It was born of intuition. Hans Wilsdorf, the founder of Rolex, envisioned the wristwatch as ideally suited to the modern lifestyles emerging in the early 20th century, even seeing it as a symbol of that transformation. Despite its small size, he made it as precise as a marine chronometer. And to ensure there were no limits to its use, he devised a way to protect the movement from all forms of intrusion.
A celebration of the birth of the Oyster, a tribute to the very essence of time, the Oyster Perpetual 41 in a yellow Rolesor version consecrates 100 years of watchmaking achievements and perpetuates the echo of its origins.
An explosion of colours. Masterful technique. A flourishing legacy. The Oyster Perpetual 36 displays a multicoloured lacquer dial decorated with the Jubilee motif.
Offered in 18 ct gold, the Oyster Perpetual 34 and Oyster Perpetual 28 showcase a delicate and restrained expression of this precious metal.
The Oyster Perpetual Datejust 41 in a white Rolesor version is adorned with a green lacquer ombré dial.
Sleek, simplified, modernized and with enhanced legibility, the regatta chronograph by Rolex makes a grand comeback with the new- generation Oyster Perpetual Yacht-Master II.
Eye-catching combinations of materials, effects and reflections unveil the unexpected.