Inside the Vaunted Vault: Exhibition of Mike Wood’s Private Rolex Collection though the Ages

In the realm of horological high-stakes, where heavy is the head that wears the Rolex crown, the resonance of the brand’s iconography holds an allure impossible to dismiss. In a time of burgeoning diversity in watch collecting, the cult of Rolex endures. This enduring attraction was evident at the recent Rolliefest 2025 in New York, a gathering of ardent Rolex collectors from all globe’s corners. Mike Wood, a watch connoisseur based in Liverpool, England, held his personal tribute to the brand, an exhibition named ‘For Exhibition Only’. Containing a meticulously gathered collection of over 200 vintage Rolex watches, the experience promised private guests a truly immersive Rolex journey. The homage to Rolex ranged across eras and classes - from admirably preserved vintage watches to unique relics bearing the iconic crown insignia, all displayed within an intimate setting. Beyond exhibiting the ‘wrist kings’, the pavilion was a sensory depiction of the Rolex journey. Vitrines showcased Rolex accessories alongside the ticking timepieces, breathing life into the brand’s expansive timeline. The collection transcended mere watches. It encompassed Rolex packaging throughout the decades and artifacts related to Rolex, such as a clock used in their workshop and a gift from the brand’s founder, Hans Wilsdorf, all subtly hidden behind an unassuming door in the serene seaside town. But beyond the mere showcasing of the Rolex artifacts was an intention deeper than their horological importance - As Wood asserts, that the pleasure of hosting the exhibition was the opportunity to interact with young collectors, familiarising them with pieces they might have never seen. Educating the newer generation about the Rolex legacy was indeed a part of the joy. There is a story behind each watch, each artifact in Wood’s collection. From the Bubblebacks, MilSubs to Day-Dates and Prisoner of War pieces, each contributes to the comprehensive chronicle that is ‘For Exhibition Only’. This exhibition shines its light on more than the watches themselves - it underscores the cultural and historical impact Rolex has imprinted upon the world of luxury watchmaking.