(Photo credit: Rolex)
Rolex will fund a 13th academic chair at the École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, to be established in 2026 at the school’s Neuchâtel campus. EPFL, Switzerland’s federal institute of technology, is regarded as one of the world’s leading universities in science and engineering, often compared to MIT for its research and innovation.
The new chair will focus on surface science and tribology. The study of friction, wear and lubrication are key to watchmaking. The announcement is the latest sign of Rolex’s investment in top engineering schools and research to foster innovation.
Since the 1970s, Rolex has expanded its research by working with scientists as well as traditional watchmakers, mechanics and engineers, often turning to EPFL for its expertise in physics, materials science and microtechnology.
Rolex says it draws much of its engineering talent from the school and supports doctoral students in applied science research. The brand has also entrusted a number of projects to EPFL’s research departments.