The new Rolex headquarters in New York to be built by David Chipperfield Architects

The David Chipperfield Architects has won an international design competition to re-design the new Rolex headquarters in the United States. Located in New York, on the corner of 5th Avenue and 53rd street, the new 25-storey tower will replace the existing building, which has been occupied by Swiss luxury watch manufacturer Rolex since 1970s.

The Rolex’s headquarters will be made up of five volumes, linearly stacked on top of each other, decreasing in size towards the top. In the winning design, the structure incorporates planted terraces, and its lined, almost translucent façades offer hazy views of the interiors. Some of these retro facades also offer variations in transparency with its opaque, streamlined glazing.  

Designed in accordance with LEED Platinum, the 165,000-square foot building’s design conforms to combat the rising issues of energy consumption and take into account the incorporation of sustainable building strategies. The massive tower will house new office areas for the staff and tenants, and a new Rolex store at the ground floor. The headquarters will also deliver brand experiences across a widespread range of company’s interests. It is to become an imperative icon of Rolex’s commitment and dedication to precision, quality and excellence. 

“We are proud to have been selected to design the Rolex USA headquarters building. Our team is committed to creating an exemplary building befitting the heritage and culture of the Rolex brand, as well as its prominent 5th Avenue location,” said British architect David Chipperfield in a press statement.