Rolex calls its gradient “ombré” dials a communion of light and shade: rich color glows at the center, fading to near-black at the rim. The effect first appeared in the 1980s, returned in 2019 and reached a new peak in 2025 with the fiery red ombré Datejust 31. Show more
Why Rolex Ombré Dials Stand Out
Hand-applied lacquer: Black lacquer is sprayed in concentric rings under a microscope, creating a flawless fade.
Modern color palette: Green, blue, brown, slate and the 2025 red ombré keep the look fresh.
Diamond synergy: Many ombré references pair the gradient with diamond hour markers or bezels for extra depth.
Rolex Collections Featuring Ombré Dials
Datejust 31
Red Ombré – Ref. 278288RBR-0041, calibre 2236, President bracelet.
Day-Date 36
Green Ombré – Ref. 128238-0069, yellow gold.
Brown & Blue Ombré – Gem-set variants in white or yellow gold.
Day-Date 40
Slate Ombré – Ref. 228345RBR-0025, Everose gold with deconstructed Roman numerals.
A smoked ombré Rolex is any Rolex fitted with a factory-produced dial that fades smoothly from one shade to another—usually lighter at the center and darker toward the edge—creating a soft color-gradient effect.
Which models feature a Rolex ombre dial?
The Rolex Datejust ombre dial and Day-Date ombre are the primary collections utilizing this style. Many of these models feature a diamond ombre dial layout, where sparkling diamond hour markers are set against the rich, dark-rimmed gradient.
