The Ultimate Rolex 'Wimbledon' Buying Guide: From History to Investment

When one pictures Wimbledon, the mind conjures images of its hallowed grass courts, crisp white attire, and the quintessential taste of strawberries and cream. For watch aficionados, however, another image is just as vivid: a captivating dial of slate grey and vibrant green. It belongs to a Rolex Datejust, but it's known by a name that echoes the prestige of the tournament itself: the "Wimbledon."

It’s a crucial distinction to make from the outset: "Wimbledon" is not an official designation from Rolex. You won't find it printed in any catalogue or on any warranty card. Instead, it is an unofficial yet undisputed nickname, born from the passion of the collector community. This very fact is the key to its special allure—it represents a watch so evocative and perfectly conceived that its identity was forged by the people who admire it most. In this definitive guide for 2026, we will explore the complete story of the Rolex "Wimbledon," from its surprising origins and unique appeal to a detailed breakdown of its models and its value as a modern classic.

The Origin Story: Tracing the Birth of an Unofficial Legend

Every great nickname has an origin story, and the "Wimbledon’s" is a lesson in subtle, brilliant design. It didn’t arrive with a thunderous marketing campaign but emerged quietly, destined to become a fan favorite through its sheer aesthetic power and cultural resonance.

The Debut: An Elegant Revolution on the Datejust II

The story begins in 2009. Rolex, at the time, was producing the bolder, more substantial Datejust II. Within this collection, a specific reference, the two-tone Yellow Rolesor model 116333, introduced a dial configuration that was unlike any other. It featured a striking slate grey sunray dial, but its defining characteristic was its hour markers: black Roman numerals, each meticulously outlined in a vibrant, grassy green. The only exception was the 9 o'clock position, which featured a luminous baton marker for orientation, and of course, the iconic date window at 3 o'clock. It was an unexpected combination—understated yet sporty, classic yet modern.

Why "Wimbledon"? The Cultural Resonance Behind a Nickname

This unique colorway immediately struck a chord. It didn't take long for the collector community to organically christen it the "Wimbledon." The connection was instantaneous and undeniable. The slate grey dial evoked the often-overcast London skies or the structural elements of Centre Court, while the sharp green outline of the numerals was a perfect mirror of the tournament's impeccably manicured grass lawns.

This association was further solidified by Rolex's long-standing role as the Official Timekeeper of The Championships, Wimbledon, a partnership that began in 1978. The green on the dial also served as a nod to Rolex’s own corporate color, a hue synonymous with excellence and prestige. It wasn't just a watch with a clever color scheme; it was a design that felt deeply connected to the spirit of the world's most prestigious tennis tournament. Thus, an unofficial legend was born.

Decoding the Charm: What Makes the "Wimbledon" So Special?

The journey from a unique dial to an icon is about more than just aesthetics. The "Wimbledon" captured the hearts of collectors for a combination of reasons—a perfect storm of design, cultural association, and a touch of legendary stardust.

The Federer Effect: When a Legend Meets a Legend

You cannot discuss the "Wimbledon" dial without mentioning Roger Federer. As a long-standing Rolex Testimonee and arguably the most elegant player to ever grace the game, his connection to the watch elevated its status from a collector's favorite to a global icon. The defining moment came in 2022. Federer, having retired from professional play, returned to Wimbledon's Centre Court for a celebration of past champions. He was dressed impeccably in a dark suit, and on his wrist was a 41mm Datejust with the "Wimbledon" dial.

This was not a scripted marketing moment during a trophy lift; it was a personal choice for a legacy-defining appearance. The image of the master, returning to his kingdom with this specific watch, created an unbreakable link. In that moment, the "Wimbledon" Datejust became more than a watch—it became a symbol of class, longevity, and timeless excellence, mirroring Federer’s own career.

A Unique Aesthetic: Understated Luxury with High Recognition

At its core, the "Wimbledon" dial is a masterpiece of balance. The slate grey sunray finish is incredibly versatile, shifting from a deep charcoal to a brighter silver depending on the light. It’s a sophisticated backdrop that allows the green-outlined Roman numerals to truly stand out without being ostentatious. This subtle flash of color provides a distinct personality that is instantly recognizable to those in the know, yet remains discreet enough for any occasion. It’s a design that doesn't shout for attention but confidently earns it, striking the perfect balance between a classic dress watch and a sporty daily wearer.

Built on a Classic Foundation: The Success of the Datejust Collection

Rolex made a wise choice by introducing this dial on the Datejust platform. As one of the brand’s most iconic and best-selling collections, the Datejust is the quintessential everyday luxury watch. It’s renowned for its robustness, timeless design, and unmatched versatility. By placing the "Wimbledon" configuration within this proven family, Rolex ensured it would have broad appeal. Buyers weren't just acquiring a beautiful dial; they were acquiring it on a foundation of legendary reliability and horological significance, making it a safe yet exciting proposition.

The Definitive Buying Guide: Choosing Your Perfect "Wimbledon"

The popularity of the "Wimbledon" dial has led to its inclusion in a wide variety of Datejust configurations. Today, there are over 30 different references featuring this dial. Here’s how to navigate the options to find the one that's right for you.

Size Matters: 41mm Modern Presence vs. 36mm Classic Elegance

Your first major decision is size.

• The Datejust 41 (41mm): This size offers a more contemporary feel and a stronger wrist presence. It carries forward the legacy of the original Datejust II but with more refined lugs and a sleeker case profile. It’s the perfect choice for those who prefer a modern, slightly sportier look.

• The Datejust 36 (36mm): This is the traditional, classic size that has defined the Datejust for decades. With a recent trend moving back towards more understated proportions, the 36mm has seen a massive resurgence in popularity. It offers timeless elegance, exceptional comfort, and is considered by many to be the perfectly proportioned unisex watch.

Key References & Generations: From Calibre 3135 to 3235

The movement inside is a critical, albeit invisible, differentiator.

• Older Generations (e.g., 1163xx, 1162xx): These models are powered by the workhorse Calibre 3136 (for the DJII) or 3135 (for the 36mm). These are incredibly robust and reliable movements with a power reserve of around 48 hours.

• Current Generations (e.g., 1263xx, 1262xx): These modern references house the new-generation Calibre 3235. This movement represents a significant technical upgrade, featuring the Chronergy escapement for enhanced efficiency and a superior power reserve of approximately 70 hours. This means you can take the watch off on a Friday and it will still be running on Monday—a practical advantage for modern life.

Personalizing Your Style: The Art of Bezels & Bracelets

The personality of a "Wimbledon" Datejust can be dramatically altered by its bezel and bracelet combination.

• Bezels: You generally have two choices: the smooth, polished bezel for a clean and understated look, or the iconic fluted bezel (crafted in 18k white, yellow, or Everose gold) for a touch of classic Rolex brilliance that catches the light beautifully.

• Bracelets: The choice is between the sporty, robust three-link Oyster bracelet and the elegant, more intricate five-link Jubilee bracelet, which is renowned for its supreme comfort. A fluted bezel paired with a Jubilee bracelet is the quintessential classic look, while a smooth bezel on an Oyster bracelet offers the most contemporary and sporty feel.

A Word of Caution: Identifying the "Look-alikes"

As its popularity grew, some similar-looking dials have occasionally been mislabeled. Be aware of Datejust models with Roman numerals but without the two key ingredients that define the "Wimbledon": a slate grey dial and green-outlined numerals. Variations with black or rhodium dials and standard black Roman numerals are excellent watches in their own right, but they are not the true "Wimbledon." Authenticity lies in that specific, iconic color combination.

Investment Analysis: Is the Rolex "Wimbledon" a Good Investment?

From a 2026 market perspective, the Rolex "Wimbledon" occupies a highly desirable sweet spot. While it may not experience the extreme speculative volatility of certain steel Professional models, its performance on the secondary market is exceptionally strong and stable.

This dial configuration has consistently proven to be one of the most sought-after among the vast Datejust catalogue. As a result, all "Wimbledon" references, particularly the 41mm and 36mm models with the fluted bezel and Jubilee bracelet, retain their value remarkably well and have demonstrated steady, organic appreciation over time.

Our advice is straightforward: The Rolex "Wimbledon" is a superb investment for the discerning enthusiast. It is the ideal choice for someone who wants to acquire a watch for the primary purpose of wearing and enjoying it, with the firm confidence that their asset is not only secure but likely to grow in value. It is a purchase of passion backed by sound financial stability.Ready to find your own piece of this legacy? Explore our curated collection of certified New or pre-owned Rolex Wimbledon watches and discover the perfect configuration for your wrist.

Last, Wearing the Elegance of Wimbledon on Your Wrist

The success of the Rolex "Wimbledon" dial is no accident. It is the result of a perfect alchemy: a brilliant and unique design, a deep-rooted connection to sporting heritage, and the unofficial endorsement of a tennis legend. It has become more than the sum of its parts.

We won't think that it is a watch with a grey and green dial; it is a wearable piece of culture, a subtle nod to the hallowed grounds of the All England Club, and a statement of timeless style. For those who appreciate the convergence of horological excellence and sporting tradition, the "Wimbledon" Datejust remains a modern classic that beautifully captures an enduring legacy on the wrist.