Rolex, a name synonymous with precision and exploration, has a deep connection with the world’s highest peak, Mount Everest. This enduring bond traces its origins back to the historical ascent of Mount Everest on May 29, 1953, led by Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay. On this seminal expedition, Rolex played an instrumental role, with Hillary relying on a Rolex Oyster Perpetual as his steadfast companion, underscoring the timepiece’s unparalleled durability amid the harshest of terrains.
After accomplishing their historic feat, Hillary and Norgay turned their gaze towards giving back to the region that had profoundly impacted their lives. Their legacies persist through the stewardship of their respective foundations, meticulously overseen by their families, while Rolex’s unwavering commitment stands as a supportive sentinel to their noble pursuits.
In honour of the 70th anniversary of Hillary and Norgay’s landmark accomplishment, their families gathered near the Everest base for a poignant celebration. In a tribute to this milestone, both family foundations, in collaboration with the Rolex Perpetual Planet Initiative, undertook the substantial task of renovating two cultural centres in the Everest region.
These centres are dedicated to the rich history, traditions, culture, and achievements of the local community and serve a dual purpose. They pay homage to the Sherpa community’s invaluable contributions to the world of mountaineering while concurrently acting as a dynamic platform for raising awareness about pressing environmental concerns. This legacy echoes the lifelong dedication of the two legendary climbers.
Tenzing Norgay Sherpa Foundation
Throughout his lifetime, Norgay dedicated himself to empowering the Sherpa community. Deeply moved by the suffering endured by Sherpa families due to the frequent injuries and fatalities among mountaineers from their own community, Norgay took proactive measures to enhance safety. He meticulously trained young Sherpas in the art of climbing, empowering them with skills and expertise.
Furthermore, Norgay ignited the spark of adventure and exploration in thousands of students at the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute in Darjeeling, India. His pivotal role in its establishment in 1954 underscored his commitment to fostering a new generation of adventurers.
My father first met Mr Wilsdorf, founder of Rolex, in 1953, after he climbed Everest, and ever since, our family has had a very strong relationship with the company.
Norbu Tenzing, Tenzing Norgay Sherpa Foundation
Norgay’s commitment extended beyond mountaineering. He tirelessly worked to help widows attain financial independence, improve access to healthcare and employment opportunities, and elevate educational standards in the region. His vision was to lay the groundwork for future generations to pursue their chosen paths. Today, with the support of Rolex, Norgay’s legacy lives on through the Tenzing Norgay Sherpa Foundation. This foundation diligently continues his tireless work, uplifting the Sherpa community and ensuring that Norgay’s spirit lives on.
The Himalayan Trust
Hillary also spent a significant portion of his life championing the wellbeing of the Everest region and its people. Alongside his family, he undertook monumental projects that left an enduring mark on the local community. Hospitals, schools, bridges, and even the iconic Tenzing-Hillary Airport in Lukla bear testament to their unwavering commitment, all made possible through The Himalayan Trust.
Beyond infrastructure, Hillary was concerned for the environmental welfare of the region. In line with this passion, his foundation played a pivotal role in the establishment of Sagarmatha National Park. Recognising the pressing need for conservation, the foundation also took up the ambitious task of reforesting the areas surrounding the foothills of Mount Everest. In these tireless efforts, Hillary’s legacy thrives as a beacon of hope, ensuring the preservation of both the cultural and natural treasures of this remarkable region
For nearly a century, Rolex has supported pioneering explorers pushing the limits of human achievement. What once began as a commitment to exploration for the thrill of discovery has now evolved into Rolex taking on the role of an environmental steward, advocating for sustainability and conservation.
My father felt his greatest achievement was the partnership with local people up there in the Himalayas. That collaboration, and sense of trust and connection, is something that came from deep inside his heart.
Peter Hillary, The Himalayan Trust
The driving force behind this transformation is the Rolex Perpetual Planet Initiative, a testament to the company’s unwavering dedication to advancing environmental causes. Through this initiative, Rolex pledges its support to individuals and organisations engaged in scientific pursuits aimed at comprehending and addressing today’s pressing environmental challenges. Its grand mission is noble: preserving the planet for future generations.
