Rolex 2026: What’s New?
This year is not just about adding some new dial versions. The brand changed the rules for some of its most basic models and introduced technical standards that push the limits of modern watchmaking.
Brand New Gold Alloys and Materials
Rolex has introduced an entirely new 18-carat Jubilee Gold alloy, which mixes tender yellow, warm grey, and soft pink tones to create a unique glow. The Swiss manufacturer also brought Rolesium, which is a mix of Oystersteel and platinum, to the Cosmograph Daytona lineup.
However, the biggest shock is the change in the Oyster Perpetual collection. Previously, the Oyster Perpetual only came in steel. Now, for the first time, Rolex features two-tone (Yellow Rolesor) and full 18-carat Yellow Gold cases in this entry-level luxury watch collection.
New Dial Designs and Inscription Changes
On the Oyster Perpetual 41, Rolex has replaced the standard “Swiss Made” text at 6 o’clock with a “100 Years” inscription for the 100th-year celebration. Rolex also added green square markers at every 5-minute interval and a green pad-printed Rolex logo to the watch face. We also get new dial materials and finishes across different models. These include:
- A pure white enamel dial
- Natural green stones
- A multicolored Jubilee motif
- A light green aventurine material
New Quantum Physics Certification
Rolex announced a new Superlative Chronometer certification. The new standard uses quantum physics to redefine time measurement by adding much stricter testing criteria for extreme precision. The company is focusing more on its mechanical movement by incorporating advanced technology. The new certification updates now include three additional and more rigorous tests conducted at the manufacturing stage:
- Resistance to magnetism
- Increased reliability
- Sustainability
Best Watches from the 2026 Releases
There are so many new references. But a few specific models grab the most attention because of their bold design choices and innovative features.
| Model | Reference | Unique Feature | Retail Price (AED) |
| Cosmograph Daytona Rolesium | 126502 | Rolesium construction (Oystersteel + Platinum), White enamel dial, sapphire case back with platinum ring | Price on request |
| Day-Date 40 | 228235JG | First watch in new 18k Jubilee Gold alloy with pistachio aventurine dial | Price on request |
| Yacht-Master II (Oystersteel) | 126680 | Return after 2024 discontinuation, programmable regatta countdown, 44mm | 81,150 AED |
| Yacht-Master II (18k Yellow Gold) | 126688 | 18k Yellow Gold, programmable regatta countdown, 44mm | 231,600 AED |
| Datejust 41 | 126334 | Green ombre lacquer dial, White Rolesor | 46,750 AED |
| Oyster Perpetual 41 “100 Years” | 134303 | “100 Years” inscription celebrating Oyster case centenary, Yellow Rolesor, green markers | 38,550 AED |
| Oyster Perpetual 28 | 276208 | First full 18k Yellow Gold OP 28, natural green stone dial with stone hour markers | 120,300 AED |
| Oyster Perpetual 36 Motif | 126000 | New multicolored Jubilee motif dial, steel case | 26,950 AED |
The Daytona Rolesium with Enamel Dial
At first glance, it might look like a Rolex Daytona Panda, but this is something entirely different. The new model, reference 126502, is a Rolesium version, which combines Oystersteel with platinum. It features a bright white enameled dial and an anthracite Cerachrom bezel made from tungsten-rich ceramic.
On the tachymetric scale, the numerals are horizontal or suspended, just like the very first Cosmograph Daytona. The chronograph movement is visible through a sapphire crystal case back held by a solid platinum ring.
Read: How Tachymeter Works: Watch Mechanism Explained
Day-Date 40 in Jubilee Gold & Pistachio Dial
The new Day-Date 40, reference 228235JG, is a true showpiece because it uses the new 18-carat Jubilee gold alloy. The dial is made from light green aventurine, which creates a very attractive pistachio green-type dial that matches the warm tones of the new Jubilee Gold case and President bracelet. The Day-Date 40 has become my favorite watch. Collectors often pair warm-toned Jubilee Gold with cream or navy attire, which enhances the pistachio dial’s contrast.
The Comeback of the Yacht-Master II (Ref 126680 & 126688)
Rolex discontinued the Yacht-Master II in 2024. However, the brand brought it back with a new look for 2026. Rolex has launched it in Oystersteel (reference 126680) and 18-carat Yellow Gold (reference 126688). Both versions look different from the old models. It still features the large 44mm size, the programmable regatta countdown, and a blue Cerachrom bezel insert.
The Rolex Yacht-Master II has always been a very underrated watch, and I am glad the brand has brought it back. It is a highly capable nautical timepiece that deserves its spot in the luxury watch catalog.
Datejust 41 Green Ombre (Ref 126334)
The Datejust 41 in White Rolesor (Steel and White Gold) now gets a green lacquer ombre dial. This green ombre style used to be a Day-Date exclusive. However, Rolex has brought these beautiful dials to the Datejust, making these watches more accessible to a wider audience, since the Day-Date is a slightly more expensive watch.
The Datejust green ombre is one of my favorite releases this year. The contrast between the fluted bezel and the dark edges of the dial looks fantastic for an everyday watch.
Oyster Perpetual 41 “100 Years” (Ref 134303)
Rolex has made a bold move by going in for Yellow Gold and two-tone Oyster Perpetual models. The OP 41, reference 134303, is a Yellow Rolesor model, which features a slate dial with specific green 5-minute squares. Instead of the usual markings, it says “100 Years” at the bottom. Thus, this is a very rare inscription change that makes this anniversary edition highly collectible.
Oyster Perpetual 28 & Motif OP 36
The new 28mm Oyster Perpetual, reference 276208, comes in solid 18-carat Yellow Gold if you want full precious metal. It stands out with a unique green stone lacquer dial and natural stone hour markers. However, if you prefer steel, the 36mm OP, reference 126000, introduced a new multicolored Jubilee motif dial, which provides a fun and casual dial configuration option without the heavy price tag of solid gold.
Check New & Pre-Owned Rolex Watch Prices in UAE
The GMT-Master II Pepsi is Discontinued
It is official. Rolex has completely discontinued the famous Rolex Pepsi this year. The decision surely causes a massive shock in the secondary market, making the existing Pepsi models even more highly demanded by collectors. The discontinuation of the Rolex Pepsi will more likely cause the prices to go up on the secondary market.
There were discussions about bringing the Rolex Coke back in the catalog as a replacement for Pepsi. However, the company has discontinued Pepsi, and at the same time, Coke is not here yet. The brand might release Coke later this year.
The removal of the Pepsi leaves the GMT-Master II lineup with Batman, Bruce Wayne, and Sprite ceramic variants. Along with the stainless steel models on both Jubilee and Oyster bracelets, White Gold versions, including the highly coveted meteorite dial, have also been removed from the catalog.
