James M. Dowling´s Rolex Webpage

Twelve years of research, four years of writing, two filing cabinets full of patents, drawings and nearly seven thousand photographs were the raw ingredients used to produce this massive new volume on the history of the world's most recognized wristwatch. James Dowling and Jeffrey Hess; two of the most respected authorities in the business collaborated on this masterwork and their evident love of their subject shines through; there are nearly 400 pages and close to 1,000 photographs, drawings, patent applications and design all contained in a book that weighs almost 3 kilos (around 6 pounds).

The book was described by the respected publication Antiques Week as .... ..."Monumental", they also say that the authors "............have certainly done their homework From tracing the company's roots to describing some of the current fakes on the market, this book leaves no area untouched." "Ninety years of Rolex watches are examined. The text is cleanly written, and the photos are of good quality. Values (given a price range) for the watches illustrated are located at the back of the book..." The review concludes by saying that whilst the book "....is an unauthorised history of Rolex watches, I can't imagine the company having any complaints about either the content or the presentation. Collectors and dealers aren't likely to complain, either."

Horological Journal, the official publication of the British Horological Institute, gave the book a full page review in the March, 1997 issue and said "...this well researched volume goes far beyond the average collector's wristwatch book. It is splendidly designed and presented...". The review by Jim Arnfield concludes by saying "This new book can be recommended to everyone interested in ROLEX watches and their history."

Shortly after publication the book was also reviewed by Rita Shenton in International Wristwatch; in her review she said that the book ...."will undoubtedly take pride of place on the library shelves." And that it ".....contains a great deal of hitherto unpublished reference data that will enhance and stimulate the interest of collectors world-wide." She went on to say that ".......these authors have elicited the good sound hard core information that is essential to intell igent appreciation of any collecting field." Her review concludes by saying "It is with pleasure and confidence that this particular reference work can be strongly recommended...... .....for this is a serious book for serious collectors."

In the February/March, 1998 issue of American Time, the editor, Joe Thompson calls it "…one of the best watch books ever." He continues in the same paragraph to say that "..the book is loaded with photos of Rolex watches and, more importantly, with impressive research on one of the world's most important, interesting and secretive watch companies." The two page review also states that "…Dowling and Hess have unearthed abundant detail about Rolex's rise."

In their April, 1998 edition (the Basel Fair issue); the famed Swiss based watch business magazine 'Europa Star' reprinted Mr. Thompson's review for a much wider audience.

Bruce Shawkey in a recent issue of his Vintage Wrist Watch Report calls the book "......a welcome addition to the body of knowledge accumulated about Rolex"; later he says "......it doesn't just stop there. It is chock full of good information, much never seen before. If you're into Rolex at all, I heartily recommend this book." He concludes his review by saying "I just can't say enough good words about this book, which will undoubtedly stand as the definitive work on Rolex for decades to come."

That is what the professionals have had to say, individual readers have been just as complimentary; here are some of their unsolicited opinions.

Marc Z says "If you are a real Rolex lover like I am, purchase the book. You will get many hours of pleasure from going through it over and over"

Michael B said "I have it and it's a fabulous book if you like to know about Rolex watches. Great photos and text, and absolutely expert information about everything. Rolex would never be as frank and honest about their history as these authors have been. I highly recommend it."

Chris McK also wrote "......I'm not given to sycophancy but I have to say that not only is this the best watch book I've yet seen, but I have other hobbies which involve similar anal attention to detail (like Ducati motorcycles) and this is arguably the best book dealing with a specialist hobby/collecting subject I've ever owned."

Bob L said "Not only is it extremely informative, but you tell a tale with great wit---it's actually FUN to read!"

Darrell H wrote "I now know more about Rolex than I ever wanted to!..........but it doesn't take long to see that this book will be THE standard reference source for the brand for a long time to come."

The second edition is now available in the UK & Europe only, at the price of £100, including postage & insurance

All of the above are available in the standard edition but the special limited edition is hand bound by European craftsmen in the finest kid leather, proudly embossed in 24k gold with the title, it features silk bookmarks, special endpapers and is encased in a full colour slip case to preserve the condition of this masterpiece. The limited edition will be signed by James Dowling and numbered and only 100 of this edition will EVER be produced. The price of this edition is £250.00 insured postage included to any location. There are less than 20 copies still available.