When Rolex unveiled its 2026 collection in Geneva earlier this year, it quickly became apparent that one of the overarching themes of the year would be a celebration of the centenary of 100 years of the Oyster case. Of course, this celebration was evidenced through the profusion of Oyster Perpetual releases, including a rare explicitly commemorative model in an entirely new configuration of Rolesor. But in addition to the watches, there’s the story behind them, which is just as important. Rolex is presenting Oyster Story, a major exhibition that tells the tale of this pioneering innovation. The exhibition is currently being held in Shanghai, at the West Bund Dome, and it is open from the 10th of June through to the 28th.

Celebrating 100 years of the Oyster Case with an Oyster Perpetual.

Aerial view of the Shanghai West Bund Dome (Photo by Tian Fangfang)

100 Years Of Waterproof Excellence

In 1926, Rolex, under the leadership of Hans Wilsdorf, created something that is as relevant today as it was then — the Oyster Case. Thanks to a system which allowed for the bezel, case back and crown to be firmly screwed into the case middle, the Oyster Case became Rolex’s first waterproof watch and , as is so often the case with Rolex, set the standard for water resistance in watches for generations to come. Of course, technical innovation is only part of the story — Rolex has also had a knack for telling the tale effectively, and in 1927, when Mercedes Gleitze crossed the English Channel with an Oyster-cased watch around her neck, a watch that was running smoothly after her legendary crossing, the reputation of Rolex’s technology was rapidly cemented. Over time, Rolex has evolved and improved the Oyster case, leading to creations capable of enduring incredible depths and adverse conditions, all built around the same ingeniously simple fundamentals.

Oyster Story Shanghai

The story of the Oyster case can be explored in Shanghai in a variety of ways — the multilevel exhibition features plenty of watches — naturally — from rare and iconic models through to more contemporary creations. In addition to the watches, we get a glimpse at their inner workings, and can gain understanding around the innovation and technology that went into creating them. Beyond that, you can see a selection of historically significant Rolex watches, actual timepieces worn by adventurers, explorers and pioneers, that have travelled from the highest peaks to the deepest depths and even into space. On the first floor, there is an exhibition of 100 portraits of iconic Rolex wearers, accompanied by another exhibition of heritage and contemporary timepieces, including some loaned from private collections.

The journey continues in the ‘SUPERLATIVE’ pavilion, which serves as an exploration and expression of Rolex’s watchmaking vision and mastery. Explore cases, bezels, bracelets, dials and movements, and gain an understanding of the work that goes not just into creating them, but also designing and ensuring they meet the standards of Rolex’s Superlative Chronometer Certification.

The first Rolex Oyster Octaganol case in 1926

A new, fully gold-cased Oyster Perpetual released at Watches & Wonders.

A more interactive expression of this commitment to precision is afforded by an optical atomic clock. Developed by Rolex as a reference instrument, it uses laser-stimulated rubidium atoms to define the second with exceptional accuracy.

You can also look to the brand’s past, either in the library lounge, which allows guests to explore the world of Rolex in a relaxed environment; alternatively, there’s a cinema room that screens a film that tells the story of the Oyster and the inspiring individuals who have worn this legendary watch.

The Oyster Story exhibition at the Shanghai West Bund Dome (Image: Rolex)

Find out more about the Rolex Oyster Story in Shanghai here.