Tennis player Iga Swiatek spotted wearing a Rolex

Paris, Roland Garros trophy still in hand, Iga Swiatek stepped out in a white blazer ensemble that drew almost as much attention as the silverware — specifically for the Rolex Datejust 36 on her left wrist, its aubergine dial catching the grey Parisian light in a way few watch dials can. The sighting confirms that Swiatek's relationship with Rolex extends well beyond contractual obligation into genuine personal taste.

The watch in question is the Rolex Datejust 36, reference 126234, introduced as part of Rolex's 2016 movement generation overhaul. It houses the in-house Calibre 3235, a 14-patent movement featuring the Chronergy escapement, Parachrom hairspring, and a 70-hour power reserve — a significant upgrade over the 3135 it replaced. The Oystersteel case measures 36mm, capped with a fluted 18k white gold bezel, and rides on the iconic five-link Jubilee bracelet with Oysterlock clasp and Easylink comfort extension. Water resistance is rated to 100 metres.

The aubergine dial variant is one of the most talked-about references in the current Datejust lineup. The deep violet-purple lacquer, officially described by Rolex as 'aubergine,' is applied with a smooth finish and paired with Roman numeral hour markers in 18k white gold, giving the dial an almost jewellery-like character. The date window sits at three o'clock, framed in a white gold surround. This combination — steel case, white gold fluted bezel, aubergine dial — occupies a precise aesthetic niche between sport and dress that few watches achieve convincingly.

Collectors regard the aubergine dial as a strong long-term hold. Demand consistently outpaces allocation at authorised dealers, and grey-market premiums have held firm. The reference 126234 in this specific dial configuration is rarely found at or below list price in secondary markets, making it simultaneously a wearable daily companion and a sound asset.

Swiatek, a declared Rolex ambassador, wears the Datejust 36 at a moment that underlines her sustained dominance of clay-court tennis. The 36mm case works proportionally well on her wrist, and the choice of a non-flashy, intellectually considered dial speaks to a collector sensibility that goes beyond brand obligation. Retail list price sits around $17,000 USD; grey-market values have tracked notably higher.