A significant part of a Rolex watch’s appeal lies in its dial. It comes as no surprise that the Swiss watch manufacturer treats dial production with the utmost seriousness. True to its long-term vision, the brand has invested substantial resources into every stage of watchmaking, especially the in-house manufacture of its dials. This year, inspired by the moment when the sun sets and light fades, the new Rolex Oyster Perpetual Datejust 31 captures the beauty of transition—but with vigour. Unveiled at Watches and Wonders 2025, this edition features a striking red ombré dial, fading from a vivid centre to deep black edges. It’s a bold addition to the collection, introducing a colour long associated with power, energy, and warmth.
Debuting on the Datejust 31, it marks a bold shift from the classic Datejust one is used to. Since 1945, the Datejust has evolved gradually, staying true to its original design. That said, this version is crafted in 18 ct yellow gold, its form remaining true to a classic silhouette worn for generations. Yet on the wrist this time, it feels transformed, with diamonds marking the hours and lining the bezel, catching a shine with every movement. The dial’s hypnotic gradient is created through the meticulous process of Physical Vapour Deposition (PVD). The colour red is notoriously unstable under UV light, yet here it holds its richness and depth with no hint of fading or tonal drift and it is a particularly delicate colour to achieve with this process. The watch is also set against this beautiful chiaroscuro canvas: ten diamond hour markers and a bezel embellished with 46 brilliant-cut diamonds.
When light dances across the dial, refracting in brilliant flashes, it is offset by the warmth of the 18 ct yellow gold case and President bracelet. The iconic President bracelet is a detail that quietly signals its place among the brand’s most prestigious timepieces. Originally designed for the Day-Date in 1956, the bracelet’s three-piece links are crafted exclusively in precious metals. Its inclusion here in 18 ct yellow gold sets this model apart within the Datejust family. Beneath the surface, ceramic inserts inside the links reduce wear and improve flexibility, while the concealed Crownclasp ensures a seamless, secure fit.
This new version of the Datejust 31 is equipped with calibre 2236, a movement entirely developed and manufactured by Rolex. At its heart is the Syloxi hairspring, made from silicon and has a patented geometry that ensures the calibre’s regularity, no matter how the watch is worn. The movement also features a nickel-phosphorus escape wheel, chosen for its paramagnetic properties, and Paraflex shock absorbers developed by Rolex to handle knocks and jolts. Together, they protect the mechanism where it matters most. Winding is automatic and powered by the Perpetual rotor. With a power reserve of around 55 hours, the watch keeps ticking even if it’s left off the wrist for a couple of days. With all production done in-house, it reflects Rolex’s long-standing approach: innovation through control; performance through precision.
Beyond appearance, the watch meets Rolex’s Superlative Chronometer standard—a benchmark well above the industry norm. After being certified by the Swiss Official Chronometer Testing Institute (COSC), each completed watch undergoes Rolex’s own in-house testing to confirm accuracy within −2/+2 seconds per day. The tests also assess water resistance, power reserve, and winding efficiency. This level of scrutiny reflects the brand’s commitment to precision and reliability. Marked by the green seal, every certified watch is backed by a five-year international guarantee—a quiet assurance of quality that has come to define Rolex.
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