All of the new models Rolex is debuting in 2026 are Oyster Perpetual watches, the brand’s first waterproof wristwatch, which debuted in 1926 and is turning 100 this year.
Alongside the eight watch debuts came three new testing criteria for Rolex’s Superlative Chronometer Certification that was redefined in 2015.
The criteria are: resistance to magnetism, reliability, and sustainability, and are now implemented during the design and manufacturing stage, Rolex said.
The certification is symbolized by a green seal that reads “Superlative Certified” and is controlled by internationally recognized, independent Swiss entities.
Commenting on Rolex’s debuts, Bob’s Watches CEO Paul Altieri said, “Overall, Rolex played it conservative this year.
“The centenary theme gave them cover to keep things restrained. But that Oyster Perpetual 36 with the multicolored Jubilee dial is genuinely fun. It’s unexpected from Rolex, and I mean that as a compliment.”
Rolex’s 2026 Oyster Perpetual 41 has “100 years” in place of “Swiss Made” on the dial in celebration of the model’s 100th anniversary ($9,650).
The new Oyster Perpetual 41 is “a tribute to the very essence of time,” Rolex said.
The Rolesor version of the timepiece references the case elements of early Oyster watches, with touches of yellow gold on the bezel and winding crown, while the case and bracelet are Oystersteel.
It also features the number 100 on the winding crown and “100 years” in place of the usual “Swiss Made” marking under 6 o’clock on the slate dial.
“Replacing ‘Swiss Made’ with ‘100 years’ at 6 o’clock is something Rolex almost never does,” Altieri noted.
“The slate dial, green accents, and yellow Rolesor details keep it understated, but this is one of the clearest statements of heritage Rolex has ever made.”
The Oyster Perpetual 36 showcases a multicolored lacquered dial in a Jubilee motif ($6,750).
The Oyster Perpetual 36 takes a different route, with a dial featuring multicolored lacquer in the Jubilee motif with letters spelling “Rolex” repeatedly.
Each of the 10 colors were applied individually with pad printing, a lengthy and complex process requiring the utmost precision, said Rolex.
At left is the Oyster Perpetual 28 in 18-karat yellow gold ($30,000) and at right is the Oyster Perpetual 34 in 18-karat Everose gold ($38,100), both with natural stone markers that match their dials.
The Oyster Perpetual 28 and Oyster Perpetual 34 both showcase a “restrained expression” of 18-karat gold; quiet luxury, if you will.
The precious metal uses a satin finish on the bracelet as a nod to the model’s minimalist aesthetic.
The Oyster Perpetual 28 is 18-karat yellow gold with a green stone lacquer dial while the Oyster Perpetual 34 is 18-karat Everose gold with a blue stone lacquer dial.
For the first time Rolex is using natural stone for the hour markers at 3, 6, and 9 o’clock.
Rolex’s new Oyster Perpetual Datejust 41 showcases the brand’s signature green color on its ombré dial ($11,650).
The new Oyster Perpetual Datejust 41 unites some of Rolex’s most distinguishable features, it said.
The model is now offered in a white Rolesor version with a green lacquer ombré dial chosen for the color’s connection to the brand.
It also features a fluted bezel, robust steel, and precious white gold.
Now, the date window appears clearer because it contrasts with the rim of the dial.
The 2026 Oyster Perpetual Yacht-Master II has a pared-back dial with large index markers and a blue Cerachrom bezel insert over the matte white lacquer dial ($20,300).
Rolex’s new Oyster Perpetual Yacht-Master II is a sleek, simplified, and modernized version of the timepiece, it said.
Now, the programmable countdown function, which features a mechanical memory and on-the-fly synchronization, has been redesigned to more effectively assist sailors during the start sequence of races.
The countdown, set on a flange, is also programmed exclusively via the lower pusher to simplify the operation of the new model.
Powered by the caliber 4162 movement, the countdown minute and seconds hands now turn counterclockwise to make the remaining time clearer to read.
The legibility of the displays also has been optimized.
The dial’s design has been pared back, with large index markers indicating the current time, a typical design for Rolex’s professional watches.
Rolex said the model’s simplicity of use is coupled with stronger nautical aesthetics, with the geometry of the pushers being inspired by winches.
The dial features matte white lacquer that contrasts with the blue Cerachrom bezel.
The Oyster Perpetual Yacht-Master II is available in Oystersteel or 18-karat yellow gold.
“A cleaner dial, better proportions, and a more usable regatta system finally bring the Yacht-master II in line with the rest of the lineup,” Altieri said.
The 2026 Oyster Perpetual Day-Date 40 in the new 18-karat Jubilee gold alloy ($62,700)
The Oyster Perpetual Day-Date 40 is now available in the new 18-karat Jubilee gold alloy.
Rolex said the alloy was developed and produced entirely in-house with tender yellow, warm gray, and soft pink tones.
It is paired with a light green aventurine dial to complement the gilded effect of the case and bracelet.
The Oyster Perpetual Cosmograph Daytona in Rolesium ($57,800)
The Oyster Perpetual Cosmograph Daytona is now available in Rolesium.
First introduced on the Yacht-Master in 1999, Rolesium refers to watches that have an Oystersteel case and bracelet and a platinum bezel; Rolex has trademarked the term.
The new Cosmograph Daytona has a luminous white enameled dial with the metallic effect of a Cerachrom bezel in anthracite ceramic that has been enriched with tungsten carbide and edged with a band of platinum.
“Suspended” hour markers are featured on a contemporary dial and the watch’s movement is visible through the sapphire crystal caseback, secured by a platinum ring.
“A steel case with a platinum bezel, white enamel dial, and exhibition caseback is exactly how Rolex evolves the Daytona,” Altieri said. “Nothing radical, just the kind of incremental upgrade collectors pay attention to immediately.”