The Acquired podcast has earned global acclaim for its meticulously researched, long-form explorations into the histories of the world’s most successful companies. Launched a decade ago, its reputation rests on superbly detailed episodes that dissect corporate journeys. Their latest offering, a monumental five-hour examination of Rolex, recently captivated audiences and industry insiders alike.
Having dedicated considerable time to studying Rolex’s intricate history over the past seventeen years, I listened with great interest to Acquired’s comprehensive episode. While the hosts’ passion for the subject is evident and their overview impressively thorough, I noted several minor inaccuracies within the complex tapestry of Rolex’s past. This prompted me to reach out directly to the Acquired team, offering clarifications and sharing additional context gleaned from my own extensive research.
The episode’s arrival came to my attention through Captain Danny of Coronet. He highlighted the podcast’s recent release, specifically mentioning the significant reliance on Rolex sources within the show notes. Delving into their research materials revealed a gratifying detail: the Acquired team referenced nine of my own articles on Rolex history published over nearly two decades. Hearing the hosts narrate stories and discoveries I had meticulously researched and shared felt remarkably validating. Their detailed recounting of my work on Rolex founder Hans Wilsdorf was particularly noteworthy.
My awareness of the Acquired podcast itself stemmed indirectly from the Rolex world. About a month prior, I encountered an interview with Eric Ku, a highly respected authority in vintage Rolex. Ku explicitly named Acquired as his favorite podcast, praising its deep explorations into luxury brand histories, citing their episodes on Louis Vuitton and Hermès as prime examples. Though I had mentally bookmarked the podcast for future listening, Captain Danny’s timely message provided the perfect impetus to experience their work firsthand.
Acquired operates under the compelling motto: “Every Company has a story.” Their mission extends beyond mere storytelling; they aim to extract the foundational strategies and “playbooks” employed by iconic companies. Listeners – whether founders, operators, or investors – are invited to discover these principles and understand how they might be applied to forge their own paths to success. Their exhaustive study of Rolex stands as a powerful testament to this ambitious goal.