Federer played so well against Rochus that it became evident from the moment that he broke serve for 3-1 that he was likely to trample all over his his opponent.
He took eight of the first nine games, and managed one humiliating forehand pass when Rochus had a good volleying opportunity from close in but still saw the great man move smoothly to return it with thundering interest.
The Belgian made a big fight to hold on to the third game of the second set, and was greeted with cheers after the ten minutes it took him to do it - but it made little difference.
Rochus' problem was that, skilful as he is, Federer was just as much so, and much more powerful too. The impressive-looking favourite soon hurtled out of sight, taking the last three games in a row.
"I feel like it could be a great season," Federer said. "I had a break after the US Open and another one at the end of 2009, and I've come into this season pretty refreshed.
"I don't often get a chance to steamroller someone like that. My movement was explosive and nice, and I feel physically fine and mentally fresh.
"I feel eager to do well and I feel like I've got more titles in me," he concluded ominously.
Federer next plays Evegeny Korolev, a Russian ranked just outside the top 50. Nadal plays Potito Starace, the former top 30 Italian.
