At Watches and Wonders 2026 in Geneva, the Rolex Cosmograph Daytona in Rolesium has already emerged as one of the standout pieces. However, as this year also marks the 100th anniversary of the Oyster, several new Rolex releases have received less attention. These include a vibrant Oyster Perpetual 36 with a multicoloured lacquer dial, a new Rolesium Daytona crafted from Oystersteel and platinum, and a selection of highly limited Day-Date 40 models featuring a stylish light green aventurine dial.
Similar to 2025, Rolex has introduced a more focused range of new models this year. The brand is prioritizing quality over quantity, marking what it describes as a “new era of achievement.” As part of this approach, the Superlative Chronometer certification has been strengthened with hundreds of additional checks during both design and manufacturing. These improvements focus on magnetic resistance, reliability, and sustainability, while maintaining strict testing standards for accuracy (within -2/+2 seconds per day), water resistance, self-winding performance, and power reserve.
A closer look reveals all the new Rolex releases for 2026, including updates to the Yacht-Master II, Datejust 41, Oyster Perpetual models, as well as new versions of the Daytona and Day-Date 40.
Rolex at Watches and Wonders 2026: A Quick Overview
At Watches and Wonders 2026 in Geneva, Rolex introduced a refined and focused collection of new watches. Instead of launching many models, the brand chose to highlight a smaller lineup with improved quality, design, and performance.
Rolex Cosmograph Daytona in Rolesium: A Standout Release
One of the most talked-about releases is the Rolex Cosmograph Daytona in Rolesium. This version comes in a special Rolesium design, which combines Oystersteel and platinum for a premium look and feel.
The watch features a clean white enamel dial paired with a dark anthracite Cerachrom ceramic bezel. This bezel is strengthened with tungsten carbide and finished with a platinum edge, adding both durability and elegance.
On the back, a sapphire crystal case allows a view of the movement inside, secured with a platinum ring. Like all 2026 models, this watch meets the upgraded Superlative Chronometer standard. This means it undergoes rigorous testing for accuracy, magnetic resistance, reliability, and sustainability throughout both design and production.
Another interesting detail is the tachymeter scale on the bezel, where the numbers are placed horizontally. This design is inspired by the very first Cosmograph Daytona models, giving it a classic touch.
Key Specifications
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Rolex Cosmograph Daytona in Rolesium comes with a 40 mm case size
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Features a clean and elegant white enamel dial
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Equipped with an anthracite Cerachrom ceramic bezel, reinforced with tungsten carbide, and finished with platinum edges
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Powered by the Calibre 4131 self-winding movement
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Offers an approximate power reserve of 72 hours
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Certified under the enhanced Superlative Chronometer standard for high accuracy and reliability
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Fitted with a Rolesium bracelet made from Oystersteel and platinum
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Water-resistant up to 100 metres (330 feet)
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Includes unique horizontally aligned “suspended” numerals on the bezel for a vintage-inspired touch
Rolex Day-Date 40 in Jubilee Gold with Aventurine Dial
The Rolex Day-Date 40 has been introduced in a new 18 ct Jubilee Gold, a special alloy created and produced entirely by Rolex. This unique metal blends soft tones of yellow, warm grey, and pink, showing the brand’s expertise in working with precious materials.
The watch is paired with a light green aventurine dial that beautifully matches the case and bracelet, giving it a fresh and elegant look. In terms of performance, it offers the same improved standards as other 2026 models, ensuring strong reliability and accuracy. It runs on the in-house Calibre 3255 movement, which provides precise timekeeping and a power reserve of around 70 hours.
Key Specifications
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Rolex Day-Date 40 features a 40 mm case size
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Showcases a light green aventurine dial for a unique and elegant look
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Designed with a classic fluted bezel
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Comes with a bracelet made from 18 ct Jubilee Gold
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Powered by the Calibre 3255 self-winding movement
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Offers a power reserve of approximately 70 hours
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Certified as a Superlative Chronometer for high precision and performance
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Water-resistant up to 100 metres (330 feet)
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Crafted using a newly developed 18 ct Jubilee Gold alloy
Rolex Yacht-Master II: New Generation Upgrade
The Rolex Yacht-Master II returns in an updated version with a cleaner design and improved readability. This regatta chronograph has been redesigned to make it more practical, especially for sailors during race starts.
One of the biggest changes is the upgraded countdown function, which now includes mechanical memory and can be adjusted instantly. The system has been simplified, making it easier to use, with the countdown now controlled only by the lower pusher. To improve visibility, the minute and second hands move in a counterclockwise direction, helping users quickly track the remaining time.
The watch is available in Oystersteel or 18 ct yellow gold, paired with a white matte lacquer dial that stands out against the blue Cerachrom bezel, giving it a bold and sporty look.
Key Specifications
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Rolex Yacht-Master II is available in Oystersteel or 18 ct yellow gold options
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Features a larger 44 mm case for a strong wrist presence
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Comes with a white matte lacquer dial and large, easy-to-read hour markers
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Equipped with a blue Cerachrom bezel insert on a bidirectional rotating bezel
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Powered by the Calibre 4162 self-winding movement
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Offers a power reserve of approximately 72 hours
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Certified as a Superlative Chronometer for accuracy and reliability
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Water-resistant up to 100 metres (330 feet)
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Designed with counterclockwise-moving minute and second hands for better countdown visibility
Rolex Oyster Perpetual Centenary Collection (41, 36 & 31 mm)
To celebrate 100 years of watchmaking, Rolex has introduced a special Oyster Perpetual collection in Oystersteel and yellow gold. This new lineup includes a unique yellow Rolesor design, combining a yellow gold bezel and winding crown with a case and bracelet made entirely from Oystersteel. This is a fresh approach, as traditional Rolesor models usually include gold center links in the bracelet.
The design highlights the centenary celebration with thoughtful details. The winding crown features the number “100,” while the slate dial includes a “100 years” marking at the 6 o’clock position instead of the usual “Swiss Made.” Green accents add a signature touch, with small squares marking every five-minute interval and the Rolex name printed in the same iconic green color.
Inside, the watch is powered by reliable in-house movements that deliver strong performance. These models meet the updated 2026 standards, ensuring better durability, efficiency, and environmental responsibility, along with a solid power reserve.
Key Specifications
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Rolex Oyster Perpetual Centenary is available in three sizes: 41 mm, 36 mm, and 31 mm
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Features a slate dial with a special “100 years” inscription at the 6 o’clock position
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Designed with a yellow gold bezel paired with an Oystersteel case and bracelet
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Powered by Calibre 3230 (41 mm and 36 mm) or Calibre 2232 (31 mm) self-winding movements
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Offers a power reserve of around 70 hours (41/36 mm) and 55 hours (31 mm)
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Certified under the enhanced Superlative Chronometer standard for improved accuracy and reliability
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Water-resistant up to 100 metres (330 feet)
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Includes a special winding crown engraved with the number “100” to mark the anniversary
Rolex Oyster Perpetual with Jubilee Motif (41, 36 & 31 mm)
The Rolex Oyster Perpetual is now available with a vibrant multicoloured dial featuring the classic Jubilee motif, a design first introduced in the late 1970s. On the 36 mm version, the dial stands out with the word “Rolex” repeated in a creative pattern, forming a unique and eye-catching look.
Each of the ten colours on the dial is carefully applied using a detailed pad-printing process. This takes time and precision, reflecting the high level of craftsmanship associated with Rolex.
In terms of performance, the watch offers the same upgraded standards as the larger 41 mm version, ensuring strong reliability, accuracy, and everyday comfort on the wrist.
Key Specifications
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Rolex Oyster Perpetual is crafted from durable Oystersteel
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Comes in a 36 mm case size (also available in 41 mm and 31 mm variants)
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Features a multicolour lacquer dial with the signature Jubilee “Rolex” motif
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Powered by the Calibre 3230 automatic movement
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Provides a power reserve of approximately 70 hours
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Displays basic functions, including hours, minutes, and seconds
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Water-resistant up to 100 metres
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Fitted with an Oyster bracelet, secured with an Oysterclasp and Easylink extension system
Rolex Oyster Perpetual 28 & 34 in Gold
The Rolex Oyster Perpetual 28 mm and 34 mm models are among the more subtle yet impressive new releases for 2026. Both watches are crafted in 18 ct gold, offering a refined and elegant look without being too flashy.
The 28 mm version comes in 18 ct yellow gold with a rich green stone lacquer dial, while the 34 mm model is made from 18 ct Everose gold and features a deep blue stone lacquer dial. A unique highlight is the use of natural stone hour markers at the 3, 6, and 9 o’clock positions—something seen for the first time in Rolex watches.
Another standout feature is the satin finish on the case and Oyster bracelet. This soft, brushed texture gives the watch a smooth and modern look and marks the first time Rolex has used this finish on a watch made entirely from precious metal.
Key Specifications
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Rolex Oyster Perpetual 28 and Rolex Oyster Perpetual 34 are available in 28 mm and 34 mm case sizes
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Crafted in 18 ct yellow gold (28 mm) and 18 ct Everose gold (34 mm)
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Features a green stone lacquer dial (28 mm) and a blue stone lacquer dial (34 mm)
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Designed with a domed bezel with a polished finish
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Fitted with an Oyster bracelet matching the respective gold material
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Powered by the Calibre 2232 self-winding movement
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Certified under the new Superlative Chronometer standard
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Highlighted by natural stone hour markers at 3, 6, and 9 o’clock
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First Rolex models in full precious metal to feature a satin-finished case and bracelet
Rolex Datejust 41 with Green Ombré Dial
The Rolex Datejust 41 is introduced in a white Rolesor version, combining strong Oystersteel with elegant white gold. This model stands out with its green ombré dial, which features a smooth color transition from a brighter center to darker edges. Unlike previous designs, the green base is fully lacquered first and then gradually darkened, creating a richer and more refined look.
The classic fluted bezel adds to its timeless style, while the updated date window is now easier to read thanks to the contrast created by the darker outer edge of the dial.
Inside, the watch runs on a reliable self-winding movement that offers strong performance and a power reserve of around 70 hours. It also meets the latest Superlative Chronometer standards, ensuring accuracy, durability, and efficiency.
Key Specifications
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Rolex Datejust 41 features a 41 mm case size
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Showcases a green ombré dial with a smooth light-to-dark gradient effect
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Designed with a classic fluted bezel in white gold
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Built using white Rolesor, combining Oystersteel and white gold
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Powered by the Calibre 3235 self-winding movement
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Offers a power reserve of approximately 70 hours
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Certified as a Superlative Chronometer for precision and reliability
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Water-resistant up to 100 metres (330 feet)
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Features a clearer and more visible date window enhanced by the contrasting dial edges
What Happened to the Pepsi GMT-Master II?
While much of the attention at Watches and Wonders 2026 was on anniversary releases, one of the biggest surprises came from what Rolex decided to remove. The brand has officially discontinued the famous Rolex GMT-Master II Pepsi, including both the steel (Ref. 126710BLRO) and white gold (Ref. 126719BLRO) versions.
Even more surprising is that there is no replacement with a red-and-black “Coke” bezel. For the first time in the Cerachrom bezel era, Rolex’s professional steel collection no longer includes any red bezel models. This marks the end of a long history that began with the original GMT-Master from 1955.
The current GMT-Master II lineup now focuses on a smaller range of models, such as the “Batman” (blue and black), the “Bruce Wayne” (grey and black), and the left-handed “Sprite” (green and black).
As expected, demand quickly increased in the secondary market. Prices rose sharply, especially after reports that authorised dealers had already been informed earlier in the year that deliveries would stop. Online platforms saw a huge jump in buyer interest just before the announcement.
2026 Rolex New Watches – FAQs
1. What is special about the 2026 Rolex Centenary models?
The year 2026 marks 100 years since the launch of the Oyster case. To celebrate, Rolex introduced special Oyster Perpetual Centenary models in 41 mm, 36 mm, and 31 mm sizes.
These watches feature a unique yellow Rolesor design, a slate dial with a “100 years” marking, and a winding crown engraved with “100.”
2. What has changed in the Superlative Chronometer certification?
Rolex has upgraded its certification by adding three new focus areas: resistance to magnetism, reliability, and sustainability. These checks are now included throughout the design and production process, not just after the watch is completed.
3. What is the “Letters of Nobility” dial?
This is the official name for the new multicoloured Jubilee motif dial on the Oyster Perpetual 36. It features the word “Rolex” repeated in a creative pattern using ten different colours, each carefully applied through a detailed printing process.
4. What is new about the Yacht-Master II?
The updated Yacht-Master II features a redesigned countdown system. The minute and second hands now move counterclockwise for better readability, and the countdown can be set using just the lower pusher, making it easier to use.
5. What is Jubilee Gold?
Jubilee Gold is a new 18 ct alloy created by Rolex. It blends tones of yellow, soft pink, and warm grey, and is designed to match perfectly with the light green aventurine dial on the Day-Date 40.
6. Is the Rolesium Daytona the only model with a sapphire case back?
The Rolesium Daytona features a sapphire case back to showcase its movement, but it is not the only one. This design trend was first seen in other models like the platinum Daytona and the 1908 collection.
7. Why is the satin finish on the OP 28 and 34 important?
For the first time, Rolex has used a satin finish on watches made entirely from gold. This gives the Oyster Perpetual 28 and 34 a softer, more subtle look compared to the usual polished finish.
Final Thoughts
The 2026 releases from Rolex show a clear shift towards quality, innovation, and thoughtful design rather than a large number of new models. From celebrating 100 years of the Oyster case to refining iconic collections, this year’s lineup blends tradition with modern improvements in a meaningful way.
For those looking to explore or own these latest Rolex timepieces, Music City Timepieces offers trusted guidance and access to a wide range of models. Contact us today to learn more or find the perfect Rolex for your collection.
