Have you seen the new Rolex 2021 releases yet? Post pandemic and quarantine life, Rolex has us ready for adventure.
The newly released 2021 designs showcase tropical jungle themes and candy colored styles, as well as updated Explorers. As always, Rolex adds a tasteful modern twist to a few classic mainstays.
Let’s take a look at all the new Rolex 2021 releases below.
New Rolex Watch Releases for 2021
Explorer

The original Rolex Explorer was unveiled in 1953 and was inspired by the first successful ascent of Mount Everest by a two-man team equipped with Rolex Oyster Perpetual chronometers.
The watch is more robust and easier to read than ever, and it’s adapted to the most extreme environments imaginable, where time management is often key to survival.
Explorer updates
- 36 mm case (same size as the 1953 original release)
- available in a yellow Rolesor version
Explorer II

The Explorer II is the larger sibling of the original Explorer. Rolex designed it specifically for cave exploration. It has a few key features that spelunkers need:
- an orange 24-hour hand that points to a fixed bezel with the 24-hour markings to differentiate between AM and PM
- high legibility and luminescent markers every five minutes
- black and white contrasting dial features
The newly released 2021 Explorer II is cosmetically the same as prior models, with a few refined features.
Explorer II updates
- Calibre 3285 movement
- 70 hour power reserve
- thinner case
- Rolex’s own own Chromalight illumination for better low-light dial visibility
Cosmograph Daytona

The Rolex Cosmograph Daytona was designed for professional race car drivers. Each dial features an engraved tachymeter bezel and inverse colored subdials. These complications allowed drivers to calculate their speed in real time.
Over time, the Rolex Daytona has become on of the most collectible models, thanks to mega superstar Paul Newman.
This year, the Daytona is styled with meteorite dials.
New Rolex Cosmograph Daytona updates
- metallic meteorite dials
- Calibre 4130 movement
Datejust 36

Next, the new Rolex Datejust design is perhaps the most notable this year. It’s already been nicknamed the “Jungle Datejust” thanks to the palm leaf dial pattern.
Three varieties feature the palm dial. A green palm dial pairs strikingly with a steel version. Two other models are available with two-tone cases and a yellow gold or gray palm dial.
A fourth model displays a gold fluted dial in yellow Rolesor with a jubilee bracelet.
Datejust 36 Updates
- palm dials in green, gold, sliver or gold ‘fluted’ pattern
- Calibre 3235 movement
Day-Date 36

Put your shades on because these new Day-Dates are blinding. Hundreds of diamonds are set in the case and dial, plus the candy colored matching numerals and band will turn heads.
You can only special order this model in coral, burgundy alligator leather and turquoise. As in, don’t expect to find these at your average dealer.
As always, the Day Dates are only available in precious metals: 18K white, yellow, or Everose gold.
Day-Date 36 Updates
- 450 diamonds on the dial alone
- 52 brilliant-cut diamonds on the bezel
- 254 diamonds adorning the case
Rolex GMT Master II

Finally, the Rolex GMT Master II ‘Batman’ and ‘Pepsi’ dials are now available with Oyster bracelet.
These models were previously only available on Jubilee bracelets. Not a significant update, but will be appreciated by fans of these models.
Final Thoughts on the New Rolex 2021 Releases
Rolex has something for everyone with the 2021 releases. Do you prefer eye catching tropical designs or classic takes on cornerstone models?
There’s no doubt that Rolex designed these new models with adventure in mind. Take your pick! From mountain tops to caves and from tropical rainforests to outer space.
After the past year we’ve had, it’s no wonder Rolex is channeling adventure in its new lineup. Which one is your favorite?
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