Ripley Sellers, Author at RK Watch Service https://rkwatchservice.com/author/ripley-sellers/ Watch Repair & Restoration Service Fri, 17 Apr 2026 21:51:21 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9.4 https://rkwatchservice.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/cropped-RK-Watch-Service-Logo-Chicago-Watch-Repair-Web-32x32.png Ripley Sellers, Author at RK Watch Service https://rkwatchservice.com/author/ripley-sellers/ 32 32 The Ultimate Guide to Rolex Green Dial Watches: History, Models, and Investment Value https://rkwatchservice.com/?p=334263 Fri, 17 Apr 2026 21:51:21 +0000 https://www.bobswatches.com/rolex-blog/?p=50296 Watch Repair & Restoration Services in Northbrook & North Chicago Suburbs. Contact us for a free estimate at 224-213-7371. Learn more from our news blog.
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Rolex’s green dial watches display the natural house color of this Swiss watchmaking brand. They can be found on some […]

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Ripley Sellers

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Rolex’s green dial watches display the natural house color of this Swiss watchmaking brand. They can be found on some of today’s most sought-after, desirable and exclusive watches. These timepieces are made to celebrate an anniversary, like the 50th birthday of the Submariner, or to exude the ultimate in luxury, as in the case of the yellow gold Daytona. Either way, they are nearly always among the most coveted and investment-grade used Rolex watches of all.

This is your complete guide to every green face Rolex model in production, including the iconic “Hulk” Submariner, the classic “Mint Green” Datejust and the refined and powerful “Olive” Day-Date. No matter where you are in your luxury watch collecting journey, we’re confident there’s a green dial Rolex out there for you.

Key Takeaways:

  • Variety of Hues: Rolex offers multiple shades of green, from the vibrant sunburst “Hulk” to the matte lacquer of the Oyster Perpetual and the refined “Mint Green” Datejust
  • Market Value: Green dial variants typically command a premium over their black or blue counterparts in both retail and secondary markets
  • Availability: Some models remain in current production while others, like the Submariner “Hulk,” have been discontinued and achieved legendary status

Let’s look through the full lineup and get into what makes this famous Rolex colorway so interesting.

Why Green? The Significance of the Rolex Brand Color

Rolex Green Dial Watches: The Significance of the Rolex Brand Color

Green has long been Rolex’s brand color. It is the predominant color on packaging, hang tags, shopping bags and in the brand’s broader visual language. For many years, it was only used on packaging and in marketing collateral. As a result, the color is now almost as synonymous with the Crown as the logo itself.

The first time the brand used green on an actual watch was with the 2003 Submariner ref. 16610LV. Nicknamed the “Kermit,” this 50th Anniversary edition was the first time the brand ever placed its signature green on a watch component: the aluminum bezel insert. Since then, the brand has used this, and other colors, to mark special occasions and introduce limited and collectible editions.

Green bezels are of course extremely popular and iconic, starting with the “Kermit” and its popular successor the “Starbucks.” However, in this guide, we will be focusing on green dials, where the color is even more visible as it appears on the face of the watch at all times. The dial is an even bolder use of the brand color, and as a result, it is only used on models of special significance or aimed at collectors looking for something extra.

The Heavy Hitters: Iconic Rolex Green Dial Sports Watches

Rolex’s sports line offers some of the most notable green dial watches in the watch industry. The tool watches are not only rugged and functional but they are powerful style statements as well, showing that professional watches can be visually stunning. Each model in the sports series has its own personality while still holding up as a Rolex sports watch performance-wise.

The Rolex Submariner “Hulk” (Ref. 116610LV)

Rolex Green Dial Watches: Hulk

The Submariner ref. 116610LV, more commonly referred to as the “Hulk,” is a widely recognized king of green dial watches. Produced from 2010-2020, the Hulk has a dramatic sunburst green dial which can give the illusion of dark forest green to bright emerald based on lighting conditions. The depth and detail in the dial, matched with the color-matched green Cerachrom bezel, made for a harmonious design that collectors couldn’t get enough of.

After Rolex discontinued the Hulk in 2020, debuting instead the Submariner ref. 126610LV (green bezel, but with a return to black dial), secondary market prices skyrocketed for the Hulk. Collectors who realized they could no longer buy that specific combination of green bezel/green dial from a Rolex authorized dealer flocked to buy up as many as they could, and it is still to this day one of the most expensive pre-owned stainless steel sport watches available.

Quick Specs: Rolex Submariner “Hulk”

Reference Number Case Size Material Key Features
116610LV 40mm Oystersteel Green Cerachrom bezel, Green sunburst dial, 300m water resistance

The Rolex Daytona “John Mayer” (Ref. 116508)

Rolex Green Dial Watches: John Mayer

Rolex’s yellow gold Daytona ref. 116508 in green is something of an outlier in the catalog. 18k yellow gold and a dark, rich green dial (described variously as “racing green” or “Christmas tree” green) sits at the upper end of the Daytona range and marks the intersection of sports watch and jewelry. The dial, in particular, has a much more muted, burnished look that is far more luxurious than the bright sunburst finish used on the Submariner.

Nicknamed “The John Mayer” after the artist raved about his love for the reference in a popular Hodinkee video interview, the watch saw a marked increase in desirability from collectors and a price increase on the secondary market. The watch was already a popular model for those who wanted to combine precious metal with a green face. However, the high profile interview cemented the ref. 116508’s status as a Daytona holy grail.

The GMT-Master II (Honorable Mention)

Rolex Green Dial Watches: GMT-Master II

It should be noted that the GMT-Master II ref. 116718LN, while often overlooked in favor of the Submariner and Daytona, is also worthy of note as a solid green dial variant, in its own right. Yellow gold in color, this 50th anniversary edition GMT-Master features a green dial with a black ceramic bezel. The end result is a cohesive, coordinated look that collectors may want to consider when looking for something a little more rare than the ubiquitous blue/red “Pepsi” or blue/black “Batman” configurations.

Bear in mind that the popular GMT-Master II “Sprite” (ref. 126720VTNR), which features a green and black bezel, sports a standard black dial. This left-handed crown positioned, strikingly bezel-ed watch has received no shortage of interest on its own, but is outside the purview of this guide.

Sophistication in Color: Green Dials in Dress Collections

Rolex’s dress watch collections provide a different take on the green dial, focusing on elegance and versatility rather than tool watch practicality. These models show how green can be as effective in formal settings, boardrooms, and evening events as it is on sports watches. The use of green here is more subtle and refined.

The Rolex Day-Date 40 and 36

Rolex Green Dial Watches: Rolex Day-Date 40 and 36

The Day-Date, often called the “President,” features green in multiple sophisticated variations. Each shade serves a different aesthetic purpose and appeals to distinct collector preferences.

The Olive Green

Rolex Green Dial Watches: Olive Green

Rolex’s proprietary rose gold alloy, Everose, adorns the 60th anniversary Day-Date’s olive green dial. A muted, earthy shade, it has a distinctly modern-yet-timeless feel to it. It’s also a gorgeous complement to the warm pink of rose gold, which we love. Olive green has a more subdued, mature feel than brighter greens and it’s become a favorite for collectors seeking something just a little different.

The Ombré Green

Certain Day-Date 36 models feature diamond-set dials with an ombré effect that transitions from black at the center to green at the edges. This gradient approach adds visual interest and demonstrates Rolex’s expertise in dial finishing techniques.

The Classic Green

Rolex Green Dial Watches: Classic Green

Classic yellow gold Day-Date models with a flat green dial make the most obvious statement. Often called “money green,” these timepieces pack two icons of wealth and success into one very powerful package. The mix of precious metal and flash of color makes these Presidential Rolex green face watches an unmistakable status symbol.

The Rolex Datejust “Mint Green”

Rolex Green Dial Watches: Mint Green

One of the most successful modern Datejusts is one that has completely usurped the role of white dial watches in terms of popularity, and that is the Datejust with a mint green dial. Rolex produces this in several cases sizes,36mm, 31mm, and 41mm. It’s also an option for the Sky-Dweller. The green dial of the Datejust is a softer more versatile green that looks like a pastel in some lighting conditions, but retains enough pigmentation to really stand out.

Mint green Datejusts are so popular because the color is more accessible than, for example, the Submariner Hulk’s intense sunburst green. It is a bit more subdued, and plays well in both casual and business environments, making it an easy addition to the wardrobes and watchcases of just about anyone. Buyers looking for their first green Rolex or a way to add some diversity to their collection have shown a huge appetite for this dial color, creating high demand.

A special mention goes to the discontinued “Palm Motif” dial variant, which features a laser-etched palm leaf pattern overlaid on the mint green surface. The Palm Motif’s discontinuation has elevated its status among enthusiasts seeking rare variations within the Datejust family.

The Oyster Perpetual (Stella Inspired)

Rolex Green Dial Watches: Stella Inspired

Rolex’s new Oyster Perpetual line with lacquer dials was a shot in the arm for the brand’s entry level line-up when it was released in 2020. This green version is flat and glossy like the fabled Stella dials of the 1970s that used bright lacquer shades for the Day-Date. Vintage Stella dials are among the most expensive and collectible Rolex models at auction.

The current version in this shade is a more affordable way to own a piece of that history. The green dial was made available to many case sizes, including 41mm, 36mm and 31mm, which are all currently in production.

A Guide to Rolex Green Shades: Which One Suits You?

Once you understand the various greens Rolex works with, it becomes easier to choose the model that fits your style. Every shade brings its own character and tells a slightly different story on the wrist.

Name Appearance Found On Vibe
Sunburst Green Shimmering metallic finish that changes from dark to bright depending on light Submariner “Hulk” (116610LV) Sporty, bold, eye-catching
Mint Green Soft pastel shade with subtle luster, versatile and refined Datejust 36 and 41 Elegant, modern, approachable
Olive Green Dark, mossy tone with earthy undertones Day-Date 40 in Everose Sophisticated, subtle, mature
Lacquer Green Flat, glossy finish with vibrant saturation Oyster Perpetual 31, 36 and 41 Playful, vintage-inspired, fun
Racing Green Deep, rich green with darker tones Daytona “John Mayer” (116508) Luxurious, exclusive, statement piece

Market Analysis: Are Green Rolex Watches a Good Investment?

Rolex Green Dial Watches: Palm Motif

The resale market has consistently shown that green dial Rolexes can demand a higher premium as compared to the black, white or blue versions. This “green premium” can be explained by basic laws of supply and demand. Green dial Rolex watches have always been produced in limited quantities as compared to their regular counterparts.

Discontinuation also plays a role here. For instance, the resale value of the Submariner “Hulk” rose after it was discontinued back in 2020, as consumers flocked to buy the green dial, and green bezel, model before it was no longer available as new.

Material also plays a significant role. The price of a yellow gold Daytona “John Mayer” is many times more than its steel version. Celebrity and social media influence have also caused temporary hype around certain models. However, desirable watches maintain their value over time.

Key factors affecting green Rolex values:

  • Discontinuation status: Watches removed from production typically see price increases as supply becomes fixed
  • Material composition: Gold models command higher premiums than stainless steel
  • Dial complexity: Special finishes like sunburst or ombré effects add value
  • Size availability: Models in popular case sizes (36mm and 41mm) tend to hold value better
  • Celebrity influence: High-profile owners can create demand spikes
  • Production volume: Limited production runs or anniversary editions maintain scarcity

Historically, green Rolex watches have proven to hold value and appreciate. The Submariner “Hulk” now sells in the pre-owned market for $18,000 to $22,000, over 100% of the retail price. The yellow gold Daytona will see prices above $80,000 depending on condition and market forces. Even the more accessible green Oyster Perpetual will start at around $7,000 to $9,000, a premium over retail for discontinued references.

Watch the Video: The Green Rolex Hierarchy, 10 Icons Ranked

For a closer look at green Rolex watches, we ranked the 10 most important green models Rolex has produced, from the entry-level Oyster Perpetual to the iconic Submariner Hulk. Drawing on more than 15 years of internal sales data, the video looks past the hype to show which models have truly mattered in the secondary market, and which one collectors may regret passing up.

The countdown starts with pieces like the Stella-inspired Oyster Perpetual 41 and the discontinued Milgauss GV, still the only Rolex ever made with a green sapphire crystal. From there, it moves into well-known sport models including the original Kermit, the Starbucks, and the left-handed Sprite GMT-Master II. It also covers some of the biggest standouts in the category, including the mint green Sky-Dweller, the olive dial Everose Day-Date created for the model’s 60th anniversary, and the John Mayer Daytona, a watch that once sat in cases before exploding in value.

At the top of the list is the Submariner Hulk, reference 116610LV, the watch that helped turn green into something much bigger than a dial color. With its rich sunburst dial and years of strong demand, it stands as the clear leader among premium green Rolex models. Watch the full video above to see how the rest of the ranking plays out and where the data points next.

Expanding Your Collection with a Pop of Color

Rolex Green Dial Watches: Expanding Your Collection with a Pop of Color

A green dial Rolex represents more than a passing trend. Enthusiasts seeking the greatest “sports creds” might opt for the Rolex Submariner “Hulk.” While collectors with eyes on a watch with more versatility might reach for the mint green Rolex Datejust. Either way, a green dial catches the eye, that’s for sure, and it’s a great conversation starter. Green dials prove that serious watches don’t have to be dull, and that Rolex continues to develop and change without sacrificing its own core identity.

Some collectors might wait years for the opportunity to own a green dial Rolex. The “Hulk” Submariner and the original “John Mayer” Daytona (a new version via ref. 126508 has since hit the market) are discontinued models. Production of many current models has long waitlists, and are therefore not a realistic purchase option. Bob’s Watches is well-equipped to help watch lovers find their elusive green dial Rolex. As a retailer of authenticated pre-owned Rolex watches, we can offer the breadth of selection and on-hand inventory simply not available at authorized dealers. Visit our selection of authentic used Rolex watches today.

Frequently Asked Questions


Yes, green dial models are typically produced in more limited numbers than the regular black, white or blue dial versions. Models like the discontinued Submariner “Hulk” or the “Palm Motif” Datejust are considered ultra-rare and especially collectible. In some cases, the more modern green dial watches have limited availability at authorized retailers as well.
The Rolex Submariner ref. 116610LV, or “Hulk”, is easily the most iconic green dial watch of all time, but the Datejust 41 with its mint green dial is the most popular modern-production reference because of its practicality and universal approach to wearability.
Green Rolex watches have a history of being able to hold value very well. Watches like the yellow gold Daytona “John Mayer” and the Submariner “Hulk” both trade hands for hundreds of percent over retail on the secondary market. That’s mostly because of limited availability and massive collector demand.
The “Hulk” (ref. 116610LV) has a green Cerachrom bezel as well as a green sunburst dial. The “Kermit” (ref. 16610LV) and its successor the “Starbucks” (ref. 126610LV) have green bezels as well but have standard black dials. The Hulk is the only modern Submariner to have a green dial.
Yes, Rolex does have several green dial models available in precious metals. The most notable ones would be the yellow gold Daytona (ref. 116508), the yellow gold GMT-Master II (ref. 116718LN), and the rose gold Day-Date 40 with olive green dial. The gold versions are the cream of the crop within the green dial segment.
Prices depend greatly on model and material. An Oyster Perpetual can begin at $7,000 to $9,000 on the pre-owned market. A “Hulk” Submariner generally falls in the range of $18,000 to $22,000. Gold examples, such as the Daytona, can top $80,000 based on condition and market factors.

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Rolex Predictions for Watches and Wonders 2026 https://rkwatchservice.com/?p=332115 Fri, 03 Apr 2026 17:24:07 +0000 https://www.bobswatches.com/rolex-blog/?p=66290 Watch Repair & Restoration Services in Northbrook & North Chicago Suburbs. Contact us for a free estimate at 224-213-7371. Learn more from our news blog.
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Ripley Sellers

Rolex is the world’s single most famous luxury watch brand, and while hundreds of new models are unveiled each year […]

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Watch Repair & Restoration Services in Northbrook & North Chicago Suburbs. Contact us for a free estimate at 224-213-7371. Learn more from our news blog.
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Ripley Sellers

Bob's Watches Bob's Watches

Rolex is the world’s single most famous luxury watch brand, and while hundreds of new models are unveiled each year at Watches and Wonders Geneva, none receive more attention than those from “The Crown.” The new Rolex models naturally receive the lion’s share of the attention, but equally important are the watches that get discontinued, as these can have a significant impact on both retail availability and secondary market prices. Beyond just dominating headlines, Rolex shapes the entire watch industry, and below are our Rolex predictions for Watches and Wonders 2026.

Rolex GMT-Master II “Pepsi” Discontinued

Rolex Predictions for Watches & Wonders 2026: Rolex Pepsi Discontinuation

For several years, rumors have been swirling that the Rolex GMT-Master II “Pepsi” is scheduled to be discontinued, but 2026 might just be the year that it actually happens. A red and blue split-color “Pepsi” bezel is emblematic of Rolex’s famous pilot’s watch, and it was the original colorway chosen for the GMT-Master when it first debuted way back in 1955. That said, Rolex has discontinued the “Pepsi” bezel before, and from 2007 until 2014, the iconic red and blue “Pepsi” bezel insert was notably absent from the GMT-Master II collection.

The reason why Rolex discontinued the “Pepsi” bezel in 2007 was because the brand initially deemed it too difficult to manufacture a split-color insert from a single piece of red and blue ceramic. Rolex managed to overcome this manufacturing obstacle in 2014 when it released the 18k white gold GMT-Master II ref. 116719BLRO with a ceramic “Pepsi” bezel, and the brand expanded this fan-favorite colorway to the stainless steel GMT-Master II ref. 126710BLRO in 2018. That said, Rolex never truly mastered the ceramic “Pepsi” bezel, and a fairly wide variety of different shades can be observed on examples of the brand’s red and blue split-color insert.

The truth of the matter is that Rolex has consistently struggled to produce ceramic “Pepsi” bezel inserts, and unofficial reports from authorized retailers have cited that they have received fewer examples of the red/blue “Pepsi” GMT-Master II compared to its black/blue “Batman” sibling (ref. 126710BLNR). However, the biggest detail in support of the theory that the “Pepsi” bezel is slated to be discontinued in 2026 is the simple fact that authorized retailers have stopped receiving deliveries of the “Pepsi” GMT-Master II, and the model no longer appears as an option on authorized retailer websites. 

At the present time, both stainless steel and white gold versions of the GMT-Master II “Pepsi” still appear on Rolex’s own website. That said, given the numerous new references that have joined the GMT-Master II collection in recent years, it’s undeniable that the lineup is starting to feel slightly crowded. Consequently, I could see Rolex discontinuing the classic red/blue “Pepsi” insert, and replacing it with a ceramic version of the black/red “Coke” bezel that would be exclusively offered on a new white gold version of the GMT-Master II.

New Rolex Land-Dweller References

Rolex Predictions for Watches & Wonders 2026: New Rolex Land Dweller References

The Rolex Land-Dweller is arguably one of the most important new models to debut in recent years, and I would be shocked if Rolex didn’t expand the collection at Watches and Wonders 2026. When Rolex first introduced the Land-Dweller last year in 2025, the brand presented the model in a deliberately concise format that consisted of two sizes, three materials, and two bezel styles, with only one dial option available for each model. Given that Rolex selected the Land-Dweller to debut its groundbreaking Dynapulse escapement, it’s clear that the Swiss brand has big plans for the model, and it’s highly likely that the collection will expand at Watches and Wonders 2026.

The Rolex Land-Dweller launched in White Rolesor (stainless steel and white gold), 18k Everose gold, and 950 platinum; however, classic yellow gold is conspicuously absent from the current-production lineup. Not all Rolex models are produced in every alloy (for example, there has never been a platinum Submariner), although a full yellow gold Land-Dweller feels like a natural addition to the collection. With that in mind, I could just as easily see Rolex releasing a two-tone version in either Yellow Rolesor (stainless steel and yellow gold) or Everose Rolesor (stainless steel and Everose gold) to further expand the aesthetic diversity of the Land-Dweller collection.

Along with introducing yellow gold and two-tone versions of the Land-Dweller, Rolex could also expand the collection by simply offering more dial options for existing models. Aside from the “Land-Dweller” name, the dial of the model is arguably its single most controversial feature, and some collectors simply feel that its honeycomb motif and bold Arabic numerals don’t match the rest of the watch. Even if Rolex chooses to keep this design for the dial, I’d be surprised if additional colors weren’t added to the series, and I could also see Rolex opting for diamond hour markers to complement the diamond-set bezel that is available for the Everose gold and platinum Land-Dweller models.

Complications for the Rolex 1908 Collection

Rolex Predictions for Watches & Wonders 2026: New Rolex 1908 References

Launched in 2023 as a replacement for the discontinued Cellini collection, the Rolex 1908 is the Swiss brand’s dedicated lineup of dress watches. At the present time, Rolex offers the 1908 in either yellow gold (ref. 52508), white gold (ref. 52509), or platinum (ref. 52506), but the collection itself is still rather limited. The yellow gold and white gold models are available with either black or white dials, and buyers of the yellow gold version also have the option of pairing the 1908 with a matching solid gold Settimo bracelet. However, all Rolex 1908 watches are simple time-only models, and there’s a good chance that we might see some complications join the collection at Watches and Wonders 2026.

Before Rolex discontinued the Cellini, the final generation was offered in time-only, date-displaying, dual-time, and moonphase configurations. Each model offered a refined expression of its respective complication, and the sub-dial on the Rolex 1908 could easily be adapted to a date indicator or dual-time display in a similar manner to what can be observed on the discontinued Cellini models. Given that the Cellini Moonphase wasn’t a commercial success for Rolex while it remained in production, I don’t foresee a moonphase-equipped version joining the 1908 collection, but calendar complications or a dual-time display would be a natural addition to Rolex’s modern dress watch.

Rolex Daytona with Jubilee Bracelet

Rolex Predictions for Watches & Wonders 2026: New Rolex Daytona

The Rolex Daytona is one of the Swiss brand’s most diverse sports models, and it is almost surprising that the Jubilee bracelet is not already an option within the current collection. The classic three-link Oyster bracelet has historically been the go-to pairing for the Daytona, but Rolex previously offered the Daytona with a Jubilee, and you will sometimes find vintage Daytona models that are fitted with Rolex’s signature five-link bracelet. Additionally, some collectors even source genuine Jubilee bracelets to attach to their modern Daytona watches, so there is clearly ample demand for a Jubilee-equipped version of Rolex’s iconic chronograph. 

At the present time, the GMT-Master II is the only Rolex sports watch that is available with the option of a Jubilee bracelet; however, some rumors claim that Rolex will be unveiling Jubilee-equipped Daytona models among its new releases at Watches and Wonders Geneva 2026. With that in mind, if Rolex does decide to add the Jubilee bracelet to the Daytona collection, you can virtually guarantee that it will not be available for every model from the series, and I wouldn’t be surprised if Rolex reserved the Jubilee for select Daytona models that are crafted from solid gold.

Alternatively, Rolex could add the Jubilee bracelet to the Daytona collection, but only pair it with the two-tone model as a way to increase public interest in this frequently overlooked configuration. Within the current Rolex Cosmograph Daytona lineup, the Yellow Rolesor (aka two-tone) version is consistently regarded as the least desirable, and it’s possible that Rolex will use the Jubilee bracelet to reinvigorate the two-tone Daytona in much the same way that the brand used this popular bracelet style to increase interest in the Rolesor versions of the Sky-Dweller.

White Dial for the Rolex Explorer

Rolex Predictions for Watches & Wonders 2026: New Rolex Explorer

Originally launched in 1953, the Rolex Explorer holds the distinction of being the Swiss brand’s very first sports watch, and for the entirety of its history, the Explorer has pretty much only been fitted with a black dial. Other than a small handful of mega-rare Explorer ref. 6610 watches that were equipped with white dials, Rolex’s classic three-handed sports model has exclusively been paired with a black dial, and one of the most common Rolex predictions from the last several years has been a white-dial version of the time-only Explorer.

The Rolex Explorer II has been available with a white dial since the mid-1980s, and other models like the stainless steel Daytona are exclusively fitted with either black or white dials. Additionally, even Rolex’s sibling company Tudor now offers a version of the Ranger that is fitted with a “Dune White” (aka cream-colored) dial as an alternative to the standard black-dial model. With that in mind, Rolex has yet to release a “Polar” version of the standard time-only Explorer, and many collectors have been predicting that the brand will unveil a white-dial Explorer at Watches and Wonders 2026.

At the time of writing, Rolex offers the Explorer in both 36mm and 40mm formats, and the standard 36mm model is available in either stainless steel or Yellow Rolesor (two-tone) configurations. However, regardless of case size or materials, all Rolex Explorer watches are fitted with black dials, and this has remained true since the late 1950s. Should Rolex decide to create a “Polar” version of the time-only Explorer, there’s a good chance that it will have black-finished hands (similar to what can be observed on the “Polar” Explorer II), and this simple change in dial color would immediately push the Explorer to the top of many collectors’ wish lists. 

Rolex Yacht-Master 40 in RLX Titanium

Rolex Predictions for Watches & Wonders 2026: New Rolex Yacht-Master

One of the most unexpected Rolex sports models to debut in recent years is the titanium Yacht-Master 42 (ref. 226627) that launched in 2023. While many brands have been using titanium for multiple decades (including Rolex’s sibling company Tudor), the lightweight alloy is a fairly new addition to Rolex’s catalog. At the present time, only two Rolex models are crafted from RLX Titanium (aka grade 5 titanium), which include the Yacht-Master 42 and the Deepsea Challenge that debuted in 2022 as the Swiss brand’s very first titanium watch. The titanium Yacht-Master 42 has proved to be a highly popular model, but it is objectively rather large, and I could easily see Rolex expanding the concept to create a smaller version based on the Yacht-Master 40.

A titanium Submariner or Daytona would likely cause riots at Rolex’s local retailers due to the overwhelming number of people that would be lining up to add their names to the waiting list. However, the Yacht-Master has always been somewhat overlooked compared to other Rolex sports models, and the titanium Yacht-Master 42 brought a lot of new attention to the collection, as it offers a highly utilitarian appearance and is the only Yacht-Master model that does not feature precious metal components. That said, the 42mm version of the Yacht-Master is simply too large for many people’s wrists, and a titanium Rolex Yacht-Master 40 would be the ideal alternative for everyone who can’t comfortably wear a 42mm sports watch.

At the end of the day, only Rolex knows for certain what models will be released and discontinued at Watches and Wonders Geneva 2026, and even the most logical and plausible Rolex predictions often end up not coming to fruition. That said, while some predictions are simply based on pure rumors, others are rooted in factual details, and given that the red/blue “Pepsi” GMT-Master II has already been removed from the online portals for Rolex’s authorized retailers, there is a very good chance that this fan-favorite colorway will be discontinued next month when Rolex unveiled its new releases at Watches and Wonders 2026.

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