As the oldest major in golf, The Open is more than a championship—it’s a rite of passage. Played on the windswept links of the United Kingdom, it has tested the world’s greatest players for over 160 years, rewarding not only skill but endurance, precision, and character. For more than four decades, Rolex has honored this legacy as Official Timekeeper, reinforcing its deep ties to the spirit of the game.
Rolex’s partnership with The Open is rooted in history and driven by excellence—supporting legends of the sport and emerging talents alike. At John Bull, you’re invited to explore timepieces that embody this same dedication to craftsmanship and achievement. From the iconic Day-Date to other Rolex classics, each watch is a tribute to the tradition, prestige, and mastery found both on the green and on the wrist.
The partnership between Rolex and golf began in 1967 when Arnold Palmer became the sport’s first Testimonee. Since then, the brand has become Official Timekeeper and is a principal partner of many leading events and stakeholders in the game.
Inaugurated in 1860, The Open is played every year on a historic links course in the United Kingdom, including St Andrews.
Steeped in elegance and tradition
Tradition has it that The Open is always played on a links course; that is, one located by the sea, featuring sandy soil and few water hazards or trees. Unpredictable weather conditions mean the 156 players competing in the tournament each year need their fair share of fighting spirit, self-control and humility given the potential for heavy showers, strong wind gusts and even heatwave conditions.
Unforgettable moments
With its unique past, the wild beauty of the coastal courses where it is played and its knowledgeable fans, The Open enjoys a revered place in the history of world sport – from the duels of Bobby Jones and Walter Hagen in the 1920s to the battle between Tom Watson and Jack Nicklaus in 1977, or the tears of Tiger Woods upon winning his third trophy in 2006.
Rolex and golf: partners for more than half a century
Rolex enjoys a privileged relationship with golf, one founded on a shared respect for tradition, responsibility, technical precision, the elegance of movement, the perpetual quest for excellence and a commitment to future generations.
Today, the partnership between Rolex and golf extends to many areas of the sport: with governing bodies and world rankings, with the greatest names in international golf, and with the major tournaments and global circuits – both men’s and women’s, professional and amateur, at senior and junior levels.
Moreover, the brand has also championed the creation of: the Rolex Series, the finest tournaments on the DP World Tour; the Rolex Player of the Year award which recognizes the best woman golfer on the Ladies Professional Golf Association (LPGA) circuit; and the Rolex Junior Players of the Year awards, which honor players aged 18 or younger, boy and girl, who perform best in a given season. Undeniably, Rolex has become “the partner watch of world golf”.
Rolex Testimonees and The Open
Several members of the Rolex family of Testimonees belong to the illustrious list of players to have won The Open: Gary Player, Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus, Tom Watson, Tiger Woods, Jordan Spieth, Francesco Molinari and Collin Morikawa.
From the windswept dunes of legendary links to the unforgettable triumphs of icons like Nicklaus, Watson, Woods, and Morikawa, The Open remains a powerful tribute to golf’s rich heritage and evolving future. Rolex’s enduring partnership with this iconic major celebrates the balance between tradition and progress—where every stroke is steeped in purpose and excellence.
We invite you to honor that same spirit by visiting John Bull. Explore the Day-Date and other distinguished Rolex timepieces that reflect the craftsmanship, legacy, and refinement synonymous with the world of championship golf. Whether you’re inspired by the sport’s legacy or simply appreciate timeless design, Rolex offers a watch worthy of every journey.
