The Crown and Centre Court has become a partnership that’s almost as iconic as strawberries and cream, and with Wimbledon returning on the 30 June, it would be remiss of us to not revisit the best of Rolex’s so-called “Wimbledon” dial.
First introduced on the Datejust II in 2009 – though never officially named by the brand – the dial features Roman numerals outlined in a striking green against a slate gray sunray background – a subtle nod to the tennis tournament’s famous grass courts and heritage color palette.
Over time, Rolex has expanded the design across multiple Datejust models, including the Datejust 41 and various Rolesor references in white, yellow, and Everose gold. In fact, in less that 20 years, the Rolex Wimbledon offering went from one variation to 30. Here, we look at the hero models of the non-collab.
Rolex Wimbledon Dial Models
‘Wimbledon’ Datejust II ref. 116333
The Rolex Wimbledon dial is exclusive to the Datejust collection, and first appeared on the Datejust II in 2009. This 41mm model, Ref. 116333, featured a two-tone steel and yellow gold case, fluted bezel, and Oyster bracelet. Its signature dial includes black Roman numerals outlined in green, with lume on the hands and 9 o’clock marker.
The Datejust II was discontinued in 2016, replaced by the slimmer Datejust 41 with the upgraded Calibre 3235 movement (vs. the 3136 in the original ‘Wimbledon’ Datejust II). While gold-accented versions exist, only the green numeral style is recognized as the true “Wimbledon” dial.
‘Black Wimbledon’ Datejust II ref. 116300
The Rolex Datejust II references 116300 (steel, pictured) and 116334 (featuring a white gold bezel) are often mistaken for featuring Wimbledon dials due to their black enamel Roman numerals and a luminous baton marker at 9 o’clock.
However, these models lack the signature slate gray background and distinctive green outlines that define a true Wimbledon dial. As a result, they are more accurately referred to as “Black Wimbledon” dials – we’re still counting it as over the net.
‘Wimbledon’ Datejust 41, ref. 126303
Launched in 2016, the Rolex Datejust 41 collection modernized the large-sized Datejust with slimmer proportions and the upgraded Calibe5 3235 movement. Unlike its predecessor, the Datejust II, the new lineup introduced Jubilee bracelet options and a two-tone rose gold variant.
Notably, Rolex made the Wimbledon dial available across all configurations, offering more choice in metal, bezel, or bracelet. This specific model is finished with an Oystersteel and yellow gold case.
‘Wimbledon’ Datejust 36 ref. 126201
The Rolex Datejust 36 Wimbledon offers a smaller option for horologically-inclined tennis fans, featuring the same signature slate gray dial with court green-outlined Roman numerals as the 41mm version. Reimagined in 2018, the updated collection includes the modern Caliber 3235 movement with a 70-hour power reserve, and was also available in a host of configurations, including diamond-set options.