Archive · 9 Aug 2025
Rolex Founder Hans Wilsdorf Allegedly a Nazi Spy
Imagine a famous watchmaker named Hans Wilsdorf, who started the Rolex company.
Recently, secret files from the past, like old detective reports, have come to light.
These files suggest that during World War II, Wilsdorf might have been a spy for the Nazis, who were the bad guys at the time.
The reports say that he was seen as a potential danger to the good guys.
Some people think his offer of free watches to British soldiers who were prisoners was just a way to look good.
Now, the Rolex company is checking into these old claims with a team of experts.
MI5 files suggest Rolex founder Hans Wilsdorf was suspected of espionage and had sympathies for the Nazi regime.
Classified documents from 1941-1943 label Wilsdorf as "most objectionable" and a potential threat.
The Blacklist Section of the Ministry of Economic Warfare considered blacklisting Wilsdorf but paused due to potential economic impact.
Wilsdorf offered free Rolex watches to British POWs, which some historians believe was a publicity stunt.
Rolex has commissioned an independent team of historians to investigate Wilsdorf's role during the period.
- Who
- Hans Wilsdorf, founder of Rolex, and MI5.
- What
- Allegations that Rolex founder Hans Wilsdorf was a Nazi spy.
- When
- The MI5 files span from 1941 to 1943 during World War II.
- Where
- The National Archives, where the MI5 files were found.
- Why
- The files suggest Wilsdorf's actions and allegiances raised concerns about potential espionage.
Suspicion of Espionage
Potential for Reinterpretation
Wilsdorf's Activities During WWII
Suspicion of Espionage
Hans Wilsdorf was a Nazi spy.
Potential for Reinterpretation
Further investigation is required to determine Wilsdorf's exact role.
- Subject
- Hans Wilsdorf, Rolex Founder
- Allegation
- Nazi Spy
- Source of Information
- MI5 files
- Period
- World War II (1941-1943)
- Current Action
- Rolex commissioning independent historians