Rolex and the Vienna Philharmonic

Rolex has been Exclusive Partner of the Vienna Philharmonic since 2008 and the Exclusive Sponsor of the New Year’s Concert since January 2009.

Published on December 19, 2024

Rolex's support of the arts embodies a profound commitment to excellence and innovation, ensuring that music, opera, and performance traditions continue to inspire and thrive worldwide. Since becoming the Vienna Philharmonic's exclusive partner in 2008 and the Exclusive Sponsor of the New Year's Concert in 2009, Rolex has supported the orchestra in its mission to elevate classical music to unparalleled heights. This unique synergy celebrates a legacy of precision, passion, and cultural enrichment that brings the timeless beauty of music to audiences worldwide. By championing cultural preservation, the brand transcends its identity as a watchmaker to become a true patron of artistic heritage.

The Vienna Philharmonic New Year’s Concert Video cover

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.

Rolex and the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra

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.

Rolex and the Vienna Philharmonic - Annual New Years Concert

“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.

Rolex and the Vienna Philharmonic - Summer Night Concert

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 and the Vienna Philharmonic - The Palais Garnier and Sonya Yoncheva

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.

Rolex and the Vienna Philharmonic - The Salzburg Festival

Rolex's enduring partnership with the Vienna Philharmonic underscores a mutual dedication to preserving and promoting the best in classical music and performance. From the grandeur of the New Year's Concert to the splendor of the Summer Night Concert and international performances, this collaboration brings the transformative power of music to global audiences. Through its commitment to music and the arts, Rolex transcends its identity as a watchmaker to become a true patron of artistic heritage.