It’s not easy being green! However, with ever popular models such as the Submariner and Oyster Perpetual, Rolex continues to prove otherwise. Founded in 1905, Rolex is instantly recognisable as the world’s most prestigious watchmaker, with a history of creating iconic timepieces that have become a symbol of luxury and classic design.
As well as being known for precision and quality, Rolex are known for their unique and vibrant dial colours such as the popular green face. Here, we look at what makes these models so enduring. Whilst many brands have embraced the green dial trend in recent years, Rolex were one of the first to experiment with the colour, using the variants in this bold vivid tone to add a further touch of luxury to their timepieces.
Originally introduced in 1954, this classic dive watch is waterproof up to 1,000 feet and made with a stainless-steel watch case and bracelet. In 2003, Rolex released the Submariner 16610LV. The watch featured a striking green bezel, earning it the nickname “Kermit” amongst fans and stayed in production for 7 years.
This was replaced by the Submariner 116610LV. The model upped the ante, applying the striking green design to the dial as well, earning it the nickname “Hulk”. The models list a plethora of features; waterproof Oyster case; 60-minute bezel; luminescent hour markers and Oyster bracelet.
And as for the popularity of the Submariner? There’s no question, the Submariner, in all its variants, is one of the most iconic watches of all time. From its look and design, to its comfort and feel, this model has rightfully earned its legendary status.
In 2016, Rolex released its infamous Daytona with a green dial, catapulting the solid gold watch back to its rightful place in popularity (though discontinued on 27th March 2023). Originally designed for endurance car racing and renowned for its accuracy, it is highly sought after by athletes for this very reason.
The classic design, incorporating the three sub-dials for clocking racing speeds, 72 hours of power reserve (from the previous calibre’s 50 hours) and the use of the colour, reminiscent of British Racing Green have made this a collector’s item, with waiting lists rumoured to be anywhere from 1-10 years.
The anniversary ‘Olive Green’ dial was introduced in 2016 to commemorate 60 years of the iconic Day-Date model. The original model, introduced in 1956, was the first to display the date as well as the day, spelt out in full. Earning the nickname “The President” due to its association with several US Presidents, the Rolex Day-Date has a self-winding mechanical movement with an approximate power reserve of 48 hours and a water resistance of up to 100 meters.
In 2020, Rolex launched the Oyster Perpetual in 5 new colourful shades, including a spectacular green dial. Originally introduced in the late 1930’s, the Oyster Perpetual is the “go anywhere, do anything watch”. Often considered to be a more affordable entry into the Rolex family, that didn’t stop it from jumping to the top of the most wanted lists thanks to the introduction of the new shades, offering a fresh and modern take on a classic.
Whilst fashion trends come and go, there is no doubt that this jewel-coloured hue is here to stay. Green, as well as holding a special significance for Rolex, offers a feeling of calm and sophistication making it a popular and timeless choice.
Whilst nicknames such as “Hulk” and “Kermit” are often associated with the models, these pieces are as distinctive as they are sought after. If you’re looking to add a splash of green to your collection, please feel free to peruse our available green dial inventory below.
