Watch enthusiasts' site Monochrome has released its annual predictions for Rolex's upcoming collection at Watches and Wonders Geneva 2026. The speculative article, published on February 27, 2026, imagines several potential new and updated models based on trends, patents, and anniversaries. It emphasizes that all ideas are unofficial and imaginative.
Monochrome Watches, a popular online publication for horology fans, published its 'Rolex Predictions 2026' on February 27, 2026, less than two months before Watches and Wonders Geneva begins on April 14, 2026. The article continues a tradition started over a decade ago, where the team creates realistic renderings of possible Rolex releases using Photoshop, drawing from the brand's recent innovations like the Land-Dweller introduced in 2025 with its calibre 7135 and Dynapulse escapement.
Key predictions include a revived Milgauss for its 70th anniversary, potentially as reference 126400 in a 40mm case similar to the Air-King, featuring a no-date calibre 7130, colored sapphire crystals (green, orange, blue) per a September 30, 2025, patent (US 12,428,335 B2), and a thinner 10mm profile without an inner shield. The Land-Dweller could expand with new dial colors like black, pistachio green, salmon, and silvery-white, plus smooth bezels and Rolesor yellow gold combinations.
Other ideas feature a refreshed Explorer II at 40.5mm with smaller markers and hands, echoing 5-digit models; Cosmograph Daytona options on Jubilee bracelets, including steel panda (126500LN) and gold variants; a platinum Daytona Le Mans (126526LN) with meteorite dial; white 'Polar' dials for Explorer 36 (124270) and 40 (224270); and a Perpetual 1908 Moonphase in gold with opaline dials and Settimo bracelet.
The article also notes rumors of discontinuing Pepsi GMT-Master II models (BLRO references), as they are absent from sites like bucherer.com and williambarthman.com, though still on Rolex's site. Monochrome stresses, 'This article is a figment of our imagination. These are just predictions. Nothing is official.' Reader comments express mixed enthusiasm, with some doubting realizations like the Jubilee Daytona due to Rolex's preferences.
The predictions highlight Rolex's shift from conservatism, but await official confirmation at the Geneva event.