where does the turnograph name come from in the rolex line?

Question

not sure where the wathch got its name

Answer 1

In 1953, the Turn-o-graph was introduced by Rolex, model 6202. This bezel design developed later into the Submariner and GMT Master series. It featured a rotating bezel to measure elapsed time, known by Rolex as a time-recording rim. On the bezel, the minute divisions were shown as small circles, and every tenth minute was marked as a numeral.

Turn is evident, graph refers to the graphical representation of the elapsed time.


The idea is to have a rotating bezel that could be turned to read elapsed time, was ideal for reading the diving time or a as it was promoted in advertising for the airline traveller. Pan Ams demand to create a watch indicating a second time resulted in 1953 in the GMT.

Answer 2

The fact that the bezel turns, and it can be used as a chronograph (interval timer). It is an example of a "portmanteau word". I love Rolexes by the way.