1881
Hans Wilsdorf was born on March 22, 1881, in Kulmbach, Bavaria.
“on March 22nd in 1881 in Kulmbach, Bavaria, about 30 miles north of Nuremberg in present-day Germany”
Topic
Hans Wilsdorf
6 facts from 1 episode, in date order. These are what speakers said on the shows, each linked to the moment it was said. They aren't independently verified.
1905
Wilsdorf and Davis Limited, the company that became Rolex, was founded in London in 1905.
“And thus in 1905, Wilsdorf and Davis Limited, the world famous merchant watch trading firm is born.”
1925
Two Swiss casemakers filed a patent for a moisture-proof winding stem and button in October 1925, which Rolex bought and made exclusive.
“In October 1925, two Swiss casemakers file a patent for a moisture-proof winding stem and button.”
1926
Hans Wilsdorf started Tudor in 1926 as a more affordable sister brand to Rolex.
“Tudor was started by Hans Wilsdorf in 1926 with the stated purpose to be a more affordable brand to Rolex while maintaining high quality standards.”
1944
Hans Wilsdorf created the Hans Wilsdorf Foundation in 1944 and placed his ownership of Rolex in it.
“So in 1944, when Hans's first wife died, he created the Wilsdorf Foundation.”
Undated
Hans Wilsdorf was orphaned at age 12 when both parents died within a couple of months.
“when Hans is 12 years old, tragedy strikes and both his father and his mother die within a couple months of each other”
Episodes