If you’ve spent any time around Oakleigh Watches, you’ll know we love a watch with personality and few things bring a Rolex to life quite like a blue dial.

So the question we’re answering today is: what’s the best blue dial Rolex watch?

We think this question was put to us because people know that I’m a bit of a sucker for a blue dial. There’s just something about it that hits differently depending on the light – sometimes rich and royal, sometimes icy and crisp, sometimes with a hint of green, and in rare cases… even purple.

Rolex have been making mainstream blue dial watches since the late ’70s too. The Oysterquartz was available with a blue dial back then, and they’re properly lovely watches in their own right.

Today, we’re looking at five standout blue dial Rolex watches, and why each one deserves a place on the shortlist if you’re hunting for the best.

Why a Blue Dial Rolex Is So Desirable?

A blue dial Rolex manages to do something very few watches can – it adds personality without sacrificing versatility.

Depending on the reference, they can feel sporty, elegant, flashy, or understated. Light plays a huge role too, which is why blue dialled Rolex watches often look completely different from one moment to the next.

If you’re browsing our current Rolex stock, you’ll notice just how varied blue dials can be across different models and eras.

Rolex Nicknames: Why Colours Matter

As most of you are no doubt aware, different colours on different Rolex watches attract nicknames from Rolex aficionados.

• Hulk, Kermit, and Starbucks in green
• Pepsi in red and blue
• Coke in red and black

And when it comes to blue? There’s one nickname that absolutely dominates…

The Best Blue Dial Rolex Watches Compared

Rolex Submariner Date 16613 (Late 2000s) – “The Bluesy”

Let’s start with the obvious.

The Rolex Submariner Date 16613 in steel and gold with a blue dial and bezel is, unsurprisingly, called the “Bluesy.”This late 2000s example is exactly what people picture when you say blue dial Rolex.

You get that bright blue sunburst dial, a matching blue bezel insert, and the unmistakable Submariner case shape that makes it sporty, iconic, and seriously wearable.

If you want a blue Rolex that feels instantly “Rolex”, this is the one.

You’ll occasionally find examples like this in our luxury watch collection, so it’s always worth keeping an eye out.

Early Rolex Submariner Date 16613 (1990s) – The Purple-Tinted Surprise

Now this is where it gets interesting.

This very early 16613 features a blue dial that has aged into a beautiful shade of purple over time. The original 16803 from the late 1980s, and early 16613 references, are known for this colour shift.

In certain lights, these dials can appear almost amethyst and collectors absolutely love them for it.

If character, rarity, and originality matter to you, this is one of the most intriguing blue dial Rolex watches you can buy.

Rolex Milgauss GVZ (Late 2000s) –  Blue, But With a Twist

Next up is the Milgauss GVZ, released in the late 2000s.

The Milgauss was available in white, black, and black with green glass but the final version released was the blue dial GVZ, and it’s a real standout.

Compared to the Submariner, this blue has a greener tone and feels a little more subtle and quirky. If you like blue dials that aren’t quite so obvious, this one has real personality.

You’ll find pieces like this among our more unusual Rolex watches for sale when they come in.

Rolex Datejust 41 (2020s) – The Blue Dial Daily Wear King

Now we’re moving onto something very close to my heart: the blue dialled Rolex Datejust 41.

This is a stainless steel 41mm Datejust on a Jubilee bracelet, paired with a fluted white gold bezel that lifts the whole watch. The dial is a crisp, clean blue sunburst – elegant without being loud.

For me, it’s a proper one watch Rolex:

• smart enough for a suit
• casual enough for everyday wear
• and the blue dial adds something special every single time

If you’re looking for a Rolex you can wear every day, this is very hard to beat.

Rolex Daytona 116509 (2020s) – The Heavyweight Blue Dial Dream

The final watch on the list is something truly special.

The Rolex Daytona 116509 in white gold features a stunning blue dial with red accents. It’s noticeably heavier than a stainless steel Daytona, but retains the same proportions and Oyster bracelet.

What you gain is that incredible blue dial – rich, vibrant, and unmistakably luxurious.

If you’re looking for a statement blue dial Rolex, either as a daily or a special-occasion watch, this is about as good as it gets.

Which Is Right for You?

The truth is, there isn’t one single best blue dial Rolex – it depends what you want it to do.

• Classic sports Rolex: Submariner 16613 “Bluesy”
• Character & rarity: Early 16613 with purple dial fade
• Quirky & different: Milgauss GVZ blue dial
• Best all-rounder: Datejust 41 blue dial on Jubilee
• Ultimate luxury: Daytona 116509 in white gold

If you asked me to choose one as the ultimate everyday blue dial Rolex?
It’s very hard to look past the Datejust 41.

Watch the Full Video & Browse Our Stock

We’ve covered five blue dial Rolex watches here, but seeing them properly is all about the light, detail, and how the dial plays on camera.

• Watch the full breakdown on our YouTube channel
• Browse our current Rolex stock online
• Or get in touch with the team if you’re looking for something specific

At the time of filming, we didn’t have the blue dial Sky-Dweller or blue dial Oyster Perpetual in stock – but that’s pretty much the full blue dial Rolex lineup.