To solve problems in prior art rotary switches that cannot respond to switching of contacts according to various functions and to the variety of accompanying operations.

This rotary switch comprises a returning means F for returning a knob 2 into a first position A from a second position B when the knob 2 is rotated from the first position A to the second position B in one direction, and a holding means H for holding the knob 2 at a third position C when the knob 2 is rotated from the first position A to the third position C in other direction. Therefore, it beomes possible to perform the switching of contacts according to various functions and to the variety of accompanying operations, in comparison with prior arts.