Books about Rolex watches

If you interested in learning about Rolex watches, or enhancing the knowledge you already have, there are quite a few books on the market that provide a good overview of the company history, individual watches, vintage models, information on how to spot a fake Rolex, and other interesting bits of information for the Rolex enthusiast.

The one I've seen mentioned a few times is "The Rolex Report: an Unauthorized Reference Book for the Rolex Enthusiast" by John E. Brozek. This book offers insight into identifying counterfeit Rolexes, which is a valuable advice for anyone who wants to buy a Rolex but has no clue how to go about it.

This might be a good place to mention that many books about Rolex are "unauthorized," which means the authors did not have the company's explicit permission to publish the book. That does not mean that the information in the book is fraudulent or untrue; it only means that Rolex did not collaborate with the author in any way.

The book has earned significant plaudits from those in the know:

• Jeffrey P. Hess, Foreword to The Rolex Report, July, 2002

"...a substantial compilation of materials that collectors and students of Rolex alike will surely use on a daily basis."

• Edward Heliosz, The Ultimate Rolex Library, 2003

"...This is a superb publication and should be the first Rolex book you should buy..."

• Bertram Kalisher, Editor, Chronos Magazine

  "...John Brozek has created a tool that is worth its weight in gold..."

• Bruce Shawkey, International Wristwatch Magazine, December, 2003

"I can't say enough good things about this book. You will pull it from your bookshelf again and again..."

You can glean the history of Rolex company and watches from "The Best of Time: Rolex Wristwatches: An Unauthorized History" by James M. Dowling. This book features dazzling illustrations and pictures of Rolex watches, printed on glossy, acid-free paper, which is probably why the book is a favourite among collectors.

The book has weathered a bit of criticism for giving short shrift to some of the more popular models, such as the Submariner and Sea-Dweller. However, for information on the company and its techonology and collections through the decades, I would say this tome is a "must-have".

This book has likewise earned a number of favourable impressions among serious luxury watch enthusiasts. Edward Heliosz, who hosts The Ultimate Rolex Library, says, "I would treat this book as the bible on Rolex wristwatches."

There are plenty of other books as well that will grab and intrigue a die-hard Rolex aficionado, or a beginner who wants to learn about the company and its watches.