Rolex watches are used to the limelight. For decades, the luxury Swiss timepieces have shared the screen with actors and filmmakers in Hollywood. Whether scene stealing on camera or completing a tailored outfit Rolex’s reputaion for luxury supersedes them. 

In a powerhouse partnership, Rolex has teamed up with the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Science to share seasoned insight from  some of the world’s most influential directors through a series of beautifully shot short-films that now live on the Rolex website.

With a focus on the importance of mentorship and how role models have influenced and shaped the works of Kathryn Bigelow, Alejandro G. Iñárritu, Martin Scorsese, and Canada’s own James Cameron, Rolex shares each director’s inspirational story.

In a film broadcasted midway through this year’s Oscars ceremony, each filmmaker revealed the sources of inspiration that helped them break boundaries and strive for artistic greatness. 

An inspirational ode to the next generation of filmmakers; the mini series conveys  insight that will ensure the continuity of cinematic beauty. Collectively, the dream team of directors has won 57 Academy Awards. 

“We build on the shoulders of the people who came before us. We see the example, it excites us and we say ‘I want to do that, or my version of that.’ Then we have to pass on what we know to a new generation,” says Cameron in the film.  

Throughout his career, Cameron has been a genius behind the camera as a director, writer, and producer. Responsible for iconic films like The Terminator, Aliens, Titanic, and Avatar, to name a few. His blockbuster Titanic held the record for the highest grossing film in history for 12 years(!), only surpassed by Avatar, which maintained that record for another decade. 

Cameron is a longtime fan of the Rolex brand, and the watches have found their way into both his wardrobe and his work for several decades. Rolex watches appear organically in his films, including in Titanic, for which he gave the late actor Bill Paxton a Rolex Submariner to wear during filming.

When the new Academy Museum of Motion Pictures opens in Los Angeles at the end of the year, it will house an exhibit that explores the countless films in which Rolex played a role. Furthering their commitment to support the growth and enlightenment of future generations in the art of cinema. 

Rolex is the Founding Supporter of the anticipated museum, which aims to preserve the history of film, and to help visitors better understand the technical skills behind the magic of movies. Rolex continues to be the exclusive watch of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences and sponsor of the event itself.