In the world of luxury and sports, few partnerships embody the values of precision, integrity, humility, respect, and perpetual evolution quite like the enduring relationship between Rolex and The Amundi Evian Championship. This premier golf tournament, held annually in the picturesque setting of Evian-les-Bains, France, is a celebration of excellence and sportsmanship, mirroring the timeless qualities that Rolex has championed for decades. At Lee Michaels Fine Jewelry, we share a deep appreciation for these principles, as they are the foundation of our craft and service. Delve into the intricate ties between these two iconic entities, and uncover how their shared commitment to these core values not only elevates the event but also inspires athletes and enthusiasts around the globe.
Rolex and The Amundi Evian Championship
Rolex is Partner and Official Timekeeper of golf’s only Major to be staged in continental Europe. The Amundi Evian Championship is played every July at the Evian Resort Golf Club in Évian-les-Bains, France. This demanding course is nestled between the pristine shores of Lake Geneva and the snow-capped Alps. Created in 1994, this women’s tournament was elevated to Major status in 2013.
A Major event
Since its first edition 30 years ago, The Amundi Evian Championship has grown exponentially to become an unmissable date in the golfing calendar. It is the only Major tournament to be played in continental Europe. Over time, the event has become a meeting point for the greatest women golfers in the world, pitted against each other in unforgettable duels that are etched into the discipline’s glorious history. Rolex Testimonees have excelled at the tournament, with victories for Annika Sörenstam (2000, 2002), Suzann Pettersen (2013), Lydia Ko (2015), Anna Nordqvist (2017) and Brooke Henderson (2022).
At the top of their game
The Amundi Evian Championship is contested annually on The Champions Course at Évian-les-Bains. The layout, which was completely redesigned in the late 1980s by architect Cabell B. Robinson, presents a number of difficulties that severely test the golfers’ skills. Situated between lake and mountain, the course offers a breathtaking panorama, where the beauty of the surroundings is matched by the demanding nature of the course and the precision required for each shot. “Playing Evian” has become a common expression, such is the enormity of the challenge.
“Women’s golf has always been a second thought in a lot of companies’ minds, but not in Rolex’s mind. They’ve been there from the beginning and supported the game at different levels.”
“Evian is really a very special place for me, and this goes beyond the fact that I won my first Major here at 17.”
Rolex, Partner of women’s golf
Partner and Official Timekeeper of The Amundi Evian Championship since 2000, Rolex is associated with all the women’s Majors – The Chevron Championship, the U.S. Women’s Open, the KPMG Women’s PGA Championship, the AIG Women’s Open – as well as the discipline’s main tours, namely the LPGA (Ladies Professional Golf Association) Tour and the LET (Ladies European Tour). The brand also partners the ANWA (Augusta National Women’s Amateur), the biggest tournament on the women’s amateur golf circuit. Through a series of awards, notably the Rolex Player of the Year, Rolex ANNIKA Major Award, Rolex Junior Player of the Year and Louise Suggs Rolex Rookie of the Year, the Swiss watchmaker promotes and celebrates the excellence of a women’s sport in perpetual evolution.
Rolex and golf, a foundation of shared values
Golf is more than a sport. It embodies values that make it an experience unlike any other. Precision, integrity, humility and respect. These are qualities also deeply rooted in Rolex’s identity. It is for this reason that, for almost 60 years, Rolex has supported golf. This long-standing commitment was initiated in 1967 with legendary champion Arnold Palmer, who was joined by Jack Nicklaus and Gary Player, known as The Big Three. It now extends to the leading institutions and events as well as the sport’s top players and younger talent.
As we celebrate the timeless partnership between Rolex and The Amundi Evian Championship, we invite you to explore the epitome of elegance and precision with the Rolex Datejust collection. Discover how these exceptional timepieces, available at Lee Michaels Fine Jewelry, embody the same values of excellence and perpetual evolution. Visit us today to experience the unparalleled craftsmanship and sophistication of the Rolex Datejust, a true testament to luxury and precision.
