You don't have to be a watchmaking fan to know that the Rolex Oyster Perpetual is one of the few watches that defines the brand and modern watchmaking in general. A direct descendant of the 1926 Oyster, one of the very first waterproof wristwatches, this robust, precise and endlessly wearable timepiece is exactly what Rolex is all about. Of course, the concept has been continually refined over the years through materials, movements and, increasingly, dial colors: last year's pistachio and beige models come to mind. This year's 100th anniversary celebrations are all about color. Lots of colors…
In 2026, the Rolex Oyster Perpetual retains all the technical specifications but puts creativity at the center. The new Oyster Perpetual 36 (Ref. 126000) features a striking multicolored dial inspired by the historic Jubilee motif, bringing a fresh look and an unexpectedly playful spirit to one of the brand's usually understated models, similar to the Celebration reference 2023. Given its bold, graphic and colorful appearance, it certainly won't be a watch for the masses, but it brings something creative to a brand, which has been distinguished for years by its conservatism.
The proportions of the 36mm Oystersteel case remain unchanged, with presence and comfort enhanced by the integrated feel of the Oyster bracelet. Crafted from Rolex's proprietary 904L alloy, which combines (mostly) satin finishes with polished accents, the case offers excellent corrosion resistance. The construction is classic: a polished domed bezel, a screw-down Twinlock crown and a solid case back with a water resistance of 100 m.
The lacquered dial is obviously on everyone's lips. Rolex revisits the anniversary motif introduced in the late 1970s (reminiscent of the work of Italian artist Alighiero Boetti) and transforms it into graphic chaos, with the letters of its own name repeating on the surface. Unlike previous monochrome Jubilee dials, the palette now includes 10 different colors, each printed individually to create a very vibrant look. Legibility is relatively well preserved as the markers are made of 18k white gold and the hands are filled with Chromalight, the brand's proprietary lume.
The Rolex Oyster Perpetual 36 is powered by the in-house caliber 3230, a modern automatic movement with Chronergy escapement for improved efficiency and magnetic resistance, paired with the blue Parachrom hairspring and Paraflex shock absorbers. The 70-hour power reserve ensures practical autonomy. As expected, the movement meets the superlative Rolex chronometer standard and has a precision of -2/+2 seconds per day according to the case.
The watch is worn on the classic, comfortable Oyster bracelet with a three-link design and satin finish. Equipped with an Oyster clasp and an Easylink extension system, it allows for quick micro-adjustment for everyday use.
Priced at EUR 6,500, identical to all other colors in the collection, the Oyster Perpetual 36 remains one of the most affordable (in terms of price, probably not in terms of availability) Rolex offerings, despite the more complex production of this 10-color anniversary dial, which only makes it even more desirable, don't you think? And remember: if you want something more classic, Rolex still offers the OP 36 Reference 126000 in no less than 9 other colors (silver, pistachio, dark green, medium blue, black, beige, candy pink, turquoise and lavender).
In addition to this central 36mm version, the multicolored Jubilee dial is also available in 31mm (Ref. 277200, price: 6,100 euros) and 41mm (Ref. 134300, price: 6,850 euros). For more information, visit Rolex.com.
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