The 24 Hours of Le Mans – endurance, precision, reliability

 

A stern test of the reliability of the machines as well as the physical and mental stamina of the drivers, Le Mans attracts some of the greatest names in motor sport. On the 13.6-kilometre (8.4 miles) Circuit de la Sarthe in north-west France, some 62 cars, each with teams of three drivers, race against each other, divided into two Prototype and one GT Class. The winning team is the one which covers the greatest distance in 24 hours, some 5,300 kilometres (3,293 miles). In the spirit of constant pursuit of excellence and pushing the limits, Rolex has been the Official Timepiece of the race since 2001.

 

 

 

Tom Kristensen: ‘Mr Le Mans’

 

Tom Kristensen has well and truly earned his nickname. The most successful driver in the legendary race’s history, he won it a record nine times, starting with his debut in 1997. A Rolex Testimonee since 2010, the Danish racing driver was FIA World Endurance champion in 2013. “You carry a win at Le Mans with you forever. I feel proud and humble reflecting on the race’s legacy and Rolex’s involvement with motor sport. Together they are the perfect combination; both striving for excellence through persistence, technical innovation and human endeavour”, says Kristensen.

 

 

The Cosmograph Daytona: a singular prize

 

The winners of the top class of the 24 Hours of Le Mans receive an Oyster Perpetual Cosmograph Daytona, specially engraved for the occasion. A legendary watch whose characteristic design has become iconic, the Cosmograph Daytona is emblematic of Rolex’s expertise. Equipped with a movement entirely designed and produced by the Rolex manufacture, it stands out by virtue of its chronometric precision as well as its unfailing reliability.

 

Rolex's special relationship and commitment to the world of motor sports is one of the many expressions of the company's philosophy of identifying with areas and personalities in which precision, excellence and pushing the limits of human and technical capabilities are the main driving force. A brand with well-established values ​​and traditions, Rolex never stops evolving and aiming high - that's why it has won its indisputable leading place in the world of fine watchmaking.