Rolex unveiled the new "Oyster Perpetual Cosmograph Daytona" Ref. 126502 at Watches & Wonders Geneva 2026. While retaining the same specifications and collection style, this model is undeniably new, and we will explore what makes it so "new."
Text by Chieko Tsuruoka (Chronos-Japan)
[Article published on January 22, 2026]
Trends in new Rolex models and the Daytona Ref. 126502
Watches & Wonders Geneva was held in Geneva, Switzerland, for one week from April 14th to 20th, 2026. Rolex, which exhibits in a large space every year, unveiled its new watches at this trade fair again this year.
In recent years, Rolex has released new collections such as the "1908" and "Oyster Perpetual Land-Dweller," but the trend with new Rolex models has been to keep existing designs largely unchanged, with the focus being on updates to details and performance. For example, the "Oyster Perpetual Cosmograph Daytona" (hereinafter referred to as "Daytona") underwent a complete collection renewal in 2023, but the design, including the black Cerachrom bezel and the shape of the case and bracelet from the previous generation, was not significantly altered.
This trend is expected to continue into 2026. While the Yachtmaster II underwent significant changes to its dial layout and mechanism, the other models primarily featured changes to dial color and materials.
The Daytona was another new watch that strongly followed this trend. However, at the same time, it possessed a clear sense of novelty, a design that had not been seen in previous Daytonas. What exactly is the nature of this "newness"? Let's unravel it by examining the details.
Automatic winding (Cal. 4131). 47 jewels. 28800 vibrations/hour. Power reserve approximately 72 hours. Stainless steel and platinum case (40mm diameter). 100m water resistance. Price upon inquiry.
Three "new" things
The new Daytona has three main features. One is that it has been given a grand feu enamel dial.
Until now, Daytona models with white dials have typically featured a lacquer finish, with the exception of natural materials such as mother-of-pearl. This new model, however, uses grand feu enamel for the first time, giving it a look unlike any other existing Daytona. While some past Daytona models were called "albino" or "porcelain" due to their white sub-dial scales and porcelain-like sheen, this model uses actual enamel, resulting in a dial with a uniquely plump texture that becomes glossy when polished, giving it a distinct feel from any previous design.
Furthermore, one notices the increased depth compared to conventional flat dials. This is because the main dial and each sub-dial are separate parts. Moreover, instead of the common method of directly applying glaze to a metal dial, the glaze is applied to a ceramic plate, fired, and then mounted onto a brass base. The metal bezel surrounding the sub-dials is meticulously polished, and combined with the enamel's luster, it emphasizes the luxurious feel of this timepiece.
The second feature is the new Cerachrom bezel. Except for the platinum models, the current Daytona models have used black Cerachrom bezels. Rolex boasts advanced high-tech ceramic coloring technology, as exemplified by the "Oyster Perpetual GMT Master II," but black has been the standard for the Daytona. At first glance, this model also appears to be black, but it is actually anthracite gray. Furthermore, the material used has been changed, and it is said to be made of zirconia with added tungsten carbide. A patent application is pending for this new Cerachrom bezel. The reason for changing the material is thought to be for durability.
The third new feature is the use of Rolesium. Rolesium is a proprietary Rolex term referring to an exterior made using a combination of stainless steel and platinum. Until now, it had only been used in the "Oyster Perpetual Yachtmaster," but now it has been incorporated as one of the variations in the Daytona. While the Yachtmaster has a platinum bezel, this model has a platinum bezel ring and case back. The other metal parts are made of "Oystersteel," a high-performance stainless steel.
Rolex's cutting edge embodies the essence of "newness" in every single detail.
This article focuses on three "new" features of the Rolex Oyster Perpetual Cosmograph Daytona Ref. 126502, released in 2026.
These three changes represent a novelty not seen in previous collections, and at the same time, they serve as a testament to Rolex's watchmaking prowess. In particular, the use of grand feu enamel and newly developed materials is something that no other brand could achieve. Without drastically changing the design, Rolex has skillfully created a clear sense of "newness" by incorporating "firsts" and "specifications that demonstrate advanced technical capabilities." In fact, considering that previous new watches have followed a similar trend, this latest model is clearly a "new" Daytona that showcases Rolex's strengths.
