Rolex has made training and apprenticeship a key part of its strategy to preserve know-how and prepare the next generation of watchmakers and specialists.
The brand is expanding its training and apprenticeship programs, aiming to double the number of young people it prepares for watchmaking and related professions while strengthening the skills of its 10,000 employees in more than 150 fields within its operations.
Each year, more than 900 courses are offered to employees. In 2021, Rolex added a hybrid platform, Perpetual Learning (PERLE), which combines in-person and digital modules.
(Photo: Rolex)
Rolex began offering in-house apprenticeships in 1984, the first company in Geneva to do so. Apprentices are generally between 15 and 25 years old and follow Switzerland’s dual system, which combines vocational school with hands-on training. Depending on the field, programs last two to four years.
Since 2018, Rolex has run a centralized Training Center with locations in Geneva, Bienne and Fribourg. The Center offers continuing education, support for managers, and training for interns and apprentices. Its proximity to production teams allows training to keep pace with new technologies and processes.
(Photo: Rolex)
In 2025, Rolex offers 26 apprenticeship tracks. These include watchmaker CFC (Certificat fédéral de capacité), gem-setter CFC, metalworker CFC, commercial employee CFC, IT specialist CFC, mechanics practitioner AFP (Attestation fédérale de formation professionnelle) and photographer CFC. The brand employs full-time trainers and emphasizes both technical skills and independence.
Applicants are evaluated on intellectual and manual ability as well as personal qualities. Rolex says it seeks to recruit apprentices with diverse ages, backgrounds and experiences.
(Photo: Rolex)
In 2022, Rolex launched Project 500, an initiative to double the number of apprentices. According to the brand, the program’s goals are “to ensure the continuity of Rolex’s expertise; to support the group’s succession strategy in its key professions; and to meet the needs of the local economy and the watchmaking sector as a whole.”
By 2025, Rolex says it has nearly met its target. Eight new apprenticeship programs have been added, bringing the total to 26, and hundreds of young people have entered apprenticeships in Geneva, Bienne and Fribourg.
(Photo: Rolex)
Rolex also runs training outside Switzerland. In 2016, it launched an international after-sales service watchmaker program. The full-time, 18-month course is open to young adults and career changers and covers all aspects of after-sales operations. Graduates then continue on to a career development plan to learn the brand’s modern calibres. Nearly 10 years after its launch, the program has trained a global network of specialists.
Rolex says its goal is to become a benchmark for vocational training. By expanding its training centers, apprenticeships and international programs, the brand hopes to safeguard its expertise while preparing the next generation to meet the needs of both its business and the watchmaking industry.