Cover Tudor is celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2026 (Photo: Tudor)
Tudor is celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2026 (Photo: Tudor)
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Rolex, Tudor, Patek Philippe and Richard Mille are celebrating significant milestones this year.
This year marks a century since the Rolex Oyster case changed the watchmaking world. When it was introduced in 1926, it wasn’t merely another case design; it was the first effective waterproof wristwatch case, thanks to its ingenious combination of a screw-down bezel, caseback, and winding crown that hermetically sealed the movement from water and dust. That breakthrough solved one of the most persistent vulnerabilities of early wristwatches and laid the foundation for the durability and reliability we now take for granted in modern watches. More than a technical triumph, it defined Rolex’s promise of resilience, shaping icons from the Submariner to the Datejust.
Read more: How the Rolex Oyster Perpetual GMT-Master II became such an icon
Above The first Rolex Oyster from 1926 (Photo: Rolex)
The first Rolex Oyster from 1926 (Photo: Rolex)
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Tudor celebrates 100 years as the more accessible alternative to Rolex but was built to the same uncompromising standards of reliability. In recent years, Tudor has carved out a strong, unmistakable character of its own, with Black Bay’s robust functionality and heritage-inspired design the heart of its appeal. In 2023, it opened a dedicated, state-of-the-art manufacture in Le Locle, which also houses Kenissi, its movement development arm that also produces for Chanel, Bell & Ross and Norqain.
See also: 6 watches inspired by the speed and precision of Formula 1
Above Tudor manufacture in Le Locle (Photo: Tudor)
Tudor manufacture in Le Locle (Photo: Tudor)
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In 2026, Patek Philippe’s most covetable creation, the Nautilus, celebrates its 50th year. The Gerald Genta porthole design broke with tradition, positioning the Nautilus as a luxury sport watch in steel.
Above Patek Philippe Nautilus 5711 with olive green dial. Ref. 5711 has been discontinued since 2021 (Photo: Patek Philippe)
Patek Philippe Nautilus 5711 with olive green dial. Ref. 5711 has been discontinued since 2021 (Photo: Patek Philippe)
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Richard Mille celebrates its 25th anniversary this year. Despite its relatively young age, it is one of haute horlogerie’s most singular voices with its robust skeletonised calibres and avant-garde material engineering that includes the lightweight but strong Carbon TPT. Richard Mille has blurred the line between precision engineering and fine art, attracting a new generation of collectors, elite athletes and cultural icons to its world of extreme watches.
Above Richard Mille RM 67-02 Automatic Extra Flat, as worn by the brand’s newest ambassador, freestyle skier Arthur de Villaucourt (Photo: Richard Mille)
Richard Mille RM 67-02 Automatic Extra Flat, as worn by the brand’s newest ambassador, freestyle skier Arthur de Villaucourt (Photo: Richard Mille)
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While these brands may not be inclined to make a spectacle of anniversaries—choosing innovation over nostalgia—history suggests that such milestones rarely pass quietly. Some surprises, perhaps even a special edition or two, may be in store, so keep a close watch on what unfolds.
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Brian Cheong leads the watch (Tatler GMT) and jewellery content at Tatler Malaysia, combining sharp editorial insight with years of luxury lifestyle experience. A seasoned journalist in luxury watches based in Kuala Lumpur, Brian had previously helmed World of Watches, Men's Folio and Prestige Malaysia.
