The Rolex Wimbledon 🎾

The Rolex “Wimbledon Dial” is one of the most recognizable dials in the world of luxury watches. What makes this dial unique are the details: the slate-gray color with a sunray finish, and Roman numerals with deep green outlines and dark centers. The nickname arose spontaneously over time, largely due to Rolex’s longstanding relationship with the Wimbledon tennis tournament and the fact that Roger Federer was frequently seen wearing this model. Rolex has never officially called it the “Rolex Wimbledon,” but the name has stuck nonetheless.

The relationship between Rolex and Wimbledon is one of the most successful and long-standing partnerships in sports history. The partnership began in 1978, when Rolex became the Official Timekeeper of the tennis tournament. Since then, the iconic green Rolex clocks have become an integral part of Centre Court.

The dial was first introduced in 2009 on the DateJust II (reference 116333, Yellow Rolesor with fluted ). At the time, the dial was only available in the larger 41mm size. A few years later, the dial was adopted for the Datejust 41 when the Datejust II was discontinued. The case proportions became slimmer and more elegant. The dial became available in various configurations: steel or gold-steel (Rolesor), with a smooth bezel or the iconic fluted bezel (1263xx series).

Reference 116333

During the major update to the DateJust 36 (the introduction of the 1262xx series), Rolex decided to make the Wimbledon dial available for the classic 36mm size as well. As a result, the Wimbledon has become accessible to an even wider group of collectors.

Reference 126234

The choice of bracelet completely changes the watch’s overall look and is usually the point of most debate. The Jubilee, with its five-link design, is more elegant and is traditionally considered the perfect match for the Wimbledon dial. The robust Oyster bracelet has three links and a more rugged look. It gives the watch a slightly sportier feel.

Reference 126300

The choice of bezel also plays a role. You can keep it sleek with a polished, smooth edge. This instantly makes the watch look much more modern and less flashy. You can also opt for a fluted the combination most people picture when they think of the Rolex Wimbledon, especially when paired with a Jubilee bracelet. That’s also the configuration Federer wore most often, which certainly boosted the watch’s reputation.

Reference 126200

The Rolex DateJust with the Wimbledon dial is more than just a beautiful watch. It is the ultimate symbol of the decades-long partnership between Rolex and the most prestigious grass-court tennis tournament. Whether you choose the classic 36mm or the larger 41mm, the elegant Jubilee or sporty Oyster bracelet, the fluted smooth bezel, with the unique combination of the gray dial and green Roman numerals, you’ll always be wearing a piece of history on your wrist.

Check out the current Rolex Wimbledon collection here.

By the way, did you know that Rolex is also the official timekeeper for all three of the other Grand Slams? However, Rolex has a particularly special connection with Wimbledon...