Rolex and the Vienna Philharmonic
Since 1842, the Vienna Philharmonic has stood as a beacon of musical excellence - a symphony of discipline, tradition, and transcendence. For over 180 years, this revered institution has upheld the highest ideals of classical music, guided by an unwavering commitment to artistic integrity and exacting standards. Much like a finely tuned instrument, every performance is a reflection of mastery passed down through generations. Rooted in Vienna, a city where culture and craftsmanship intertwine, the Philharmonic embodies a legacy where precision and passion converge - resonating far beyond the concert hall. At Polacheck’s Jewelers in Calabasas, a similarly rich tradition of fine craftsmanship is celebrated, where timeless artistry and precision come together, much like the harmonious notes of a world-class orchestra.
Rolex has been Exclusive Partner of the Vienna Philharmonic since 2008 and the Exclusive Sponsor of the New Year’s Concert since January 2009.
Founded in 1842, the Vienna Philharmonic is widely acknowledged as one of the world’s most revered orchestras. Exacting standards and artistic integrity are the guiding principles of this esteemed institution, which has upheld the greatest traditions in classical music for more than 180 years.
A new morning dawns
The Vienna Philharmonic’s annual New Year’s Concert is an exceptional event that has been held for over 80 years and traditionally takes place on the morning of 1 January. The guest conductor for the 2025 concert is the great Riccardo Muti, who is leading the orchestra for the seventh time. This worldwide event celebrates the music of Johann Strauss, his family and contemporaries. Each year, millions of people in more than 90 countries are able to enjoy the music, which is broadcast live from Vienna’s Musikverein.
“All praise of the Vienna Philharmonic reveals itself as understatement.”
Richard Strauss
A summer night’s sound
The Vienna Philharmonic also offers audiences the greatly anticipated Summer Night Concert. Every year, in May or June, up to 50’000 people gather in the Palace and Gardens of Schönbrunn, in the heart of the Austrian capital, for an open-air performance. Broadcast in over 80 countries, the event has been presented by Rolex since 2009. It reflects a shared commitment to making classical music accessible to all.
An international programme
The Vienna Philharmonic regularly performs for audiences in the world’s finest concert halls.
Concerts presented by Rolex in 2025:
- A performance will take place on 25 February at Milan’s Teatro alla Scala.
- On 11 May, the Opéra national de Paris, the Vienna Philharmonic and Rolex will partner for a gala concert on the 150th anniversary of the Palais Garnier. Yannick Nézet-Séguin will conduct with other Rolex Testimonees – Juan Diego Flórez, Sir Bryn Terfel, Rolando Villazón, Yuja Wang and Sonya Yoncheva – joining the Philharmonic on stage for a unique performance. Proceeds will go to the youth lyric orchestra of the Opéra national de Paris (ADO – Apprentissage de l’Orchestre).
- Rolex Night in Seoul will take place on 20 November 2025 at the Seoul Arts Center.
Rolex, partnerships in music
Music is a universal language that transcends borders and cultures. Rolex celebrates excellence in music through its partnerships with prestigious institutions, including four of the world’s leading opera houses – London, Milan, New York and Paris – as well as two jewels in classical music, the Salzburg Festival and the Vienna Philharmonic. Rolex contributes to keeping music alive around the world through its support for singers, conductors and virtuoso musicians who in turn inspire new generations of artists to great achievement.
Music is a universal language—one that resonates across borders, cultures, and generations. It speaks to the soul with a clarity and depth that few art forms can match. In honoring this timeless art, Rolex proudly supports some of the world’s most prestigious musical institutions, from the grand opera houses of London, Milan, New York, and Paris to the celebrated stages of the Salzburg Festival and the Vienna Philharmonic. Through these enduring partnerships, Rolex helps preserve and elevate the legacy of classical music, championing the singers, conductors, and virtuoso musicians who inspire future generations. At Polacheck’s Jewelers, this same reverence for timeless artistry and enduring excellence is reflected in every piece—a tribute to the beauty of craft, performance, and legacy.
