The 24 Hours of Le Mans is more than just a race—it’s a legendary testament to endurance, innovation, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. As the 92nd edition approaches on June 15–16, 2024, Rolex proudly continues its tradition as Official Timepiece, a role it has held since 2001, underscoring its enduring commitment to precision and performance.
From the thunder of engines on the historic Circuit de la Sarthe to the iconic craftsmanship of the Rolex Cosmograph Daytona, the essence of Le Mans lives in every Rolex. Visit John Bull to explore timepieces that embody the spirit of this remarkable race—defined by durability, design, and a legacy of greatness.
Long and proud history of epic racing
Created in 1923, the 24 Hours of Le Mans is the oldest and one of the most prestigious car races in the world. 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 8.4-mile (13.6 kilometers) Circuit de la Sarthe in northwest 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 3,293 miles (5,300 kilometers). Rolex has been the Official Timepiece of the race since 2001.
Continuous innovation over the decades
Since its inaugural edition, the mythical event has been an ideal testing ground for the many advances in motor sport technologies. The trialing of a new road surface in 1922 (still viable today), improvements to safety, engines and aerodynamics, as well as, since 2022, the requirement for all cars to run on 100 percent renewable biofuel, are among the notable developments marking a century of progress supported by this legendary endurance race. New automotive manufacturers contesting the top class in 2024 include Alpine, BMW and Lamborghini, emphasizing the importance and relevance of the event for the car industry.
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 endeavor.”
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.
As the drivers at Le Mans test the extremes of performance and resilience, Rolex is right there—marking every second of the journey and celebrating the relentless drive for perfection. Awarded to the top-class winner, the engraved Cosmograph Daytona stands as a symbol of unmatched achievement and the seamless blend of motorsport heritage with watchmaking excellence.
Discover this legendary timepiece and more at John Bull. Whether you’re inspired by the adrenaline of the race or the precision of horology, our showroom offers a refined experience that reflects the passion, innovation, and endurance at the heart of both Rolex and Le Mans.
