Rolex New Releases 2026
The initial leaks have proven to be accurate. Watches and Wonders 2026 marks a significant year for Rolex, headlined by the 100 year anniversary of the Oyster case, the return of the Yacht Master II, and the introduction of materials never previously seen from the brand.
New Materials: Rolex Expands Its Material Innovation
Two off catalogue models showcase Rolex’s push into new material territory.
The first is the introduction of Rolesium in a new context, presented here as a blended alloy combining stainless steel and platinum. The Daytona reference 126502 features a white enamel dial paired with an anthracite ceramic bezel. Notably, it also includes a transparent caseback, making it the first Daytona models to offer it outside of the Le Mans and platinum variants.
Next, Rolex introduces 18 ct Jubilee gold, a proprietary blend combining white, yellow, and Everose gold. This material is showcased on the Day Date 40, reference 228235 JG, featuring a light green aventurine dial with baguette diamond markers. This marks a new direction in how Rolex approaches precious metal compositions.
Oyster Perpetual: 100 Year Anniversary Expansion
The Oyster Perpetual plays a central role in celebrating 100 years of the Oyster case.
The features a slate dial with “100 years” printed at the 6 o clock position. The hour markers and Rolex signature are highlighted in the brand’s signature green, while the yellow gold crown also carries the anniversary detail. It comes in 3 sizes.
In addition, the Oyster Perpetual lineup has expanded significantly. Previously limited to stainless steel, it now includes two tone yellow gold, full Everose gold, and full yellow gold variants, along with diamond set bezel options.
A new multicoloured Jubilee motif dial has also been introduced across the 31mm, 36mm, and 41mm sizes, adding a more expressive design element to the collection.
Yacht Master II: A Return with Major Changes
One of the most notable developments is the return of the Yacht Master II.
Now powered by the updated calibre 4162, the model undergoes a significant functional change. The Ring Command bezel system has been removed, with the bezel now functioning as a standard bi-directional ceramic bezel.
Instead, the regatta chronograph is fully operated through the pushers. The lower pusher sets the countdown duration, indicated by a GMT style arrow hand, while the upper pusher initiates the countdown.
Contrary to expectations, the case has not been slimmed down. The watch remains at 44mm with a similar thickness profile.
The Yacht Master II will be offered in stainless steel, reference 126680, and full yellow gold, reference 126688.
The Datejust
The standout addition is the introduction of the green ombré dial into the stainless steel Datejust lineup, now available in both 36mm and 41mm with hour index markers.
The blue Roman dial has also been updated, now featuring a sunburst blue finish in place of the previous flat azzurro blue.
We also see the introduction of an olive green dial into the two tone yellow gold Datejust lineup in both 36mm and 41mm. Previously, this dial was only available with Roman numerals featuring diamond set six and nine markers. It is now offered with a stick index configuration, as well as a cleaner Roman numeral variant without diamonds.
In the two tone Everose gold models, a new mint green dial is introduced in both 36mm and 41mm, paired with rose gold Roman numerals, adding a more contemporary contrast to the lineup.
In a broader shift, most Roman numeral Datejust dials across both 36mm and 41mm have been discontinued and replaced with updated designs, with the exception of the slate Roman Wimbledon dial.
Day Date: Subtle but Notable Changes
Finally, Rolex reintroduces the RBR bezel on the white gold Day Date 36, adding another option within the precious metal lineup.
Final Thoughts
Rolex’s 2026 releases strike a balance between innovation and refinement. From new materials and anniversary pieces to functional changes and lineup restructuring, this is a year that reflects both evolution and experimentation. Which release stood out to you the most?
Check out the full collection on Rolex website here.