Rolex Oyster Perpetual 124300 vs 134300 — Dark Green Against Pistachio

When Rolex updates a model, it rarely does so with grand gestures. Instead it is about small, considered adjustments that change the whole more than you first think. The comparison between the Rolex Oyster Perpetual 124300 and the Rolex Oyster Perpetual 134300 is a perfect example of exactly that.

Both are 41 mm. Both are timeless, without a date. Both are driven by the same calibre — the automatic 3230, COSC-certified with a 70-hour power reserve, the Chronergy escapement, and a Parachrom hairspring, water-resistant to 100 metres. But the feeling on the wrist? Completely different. Here is my take on dark green 2020 versus pistachio 2025.

Two greens — two personalities

The dark green 124300 launched in 2020 and quickly became a favourite. The deep sunburst dial has that “magic Rolex green” that shifts between almost black in low light and intensely green in the sun. It is discreet but at the same time alive. It is a watch that works every day — suit, t-shirt, office, dinner; it always feels right.

The pistachio version in the 134300 from 2025 is something else entirely. Here Rolex has gone for a softer, matte pastel tone. The colour is lighter, more playful, and considerably more summery. It catches the light differently and gives a fresher expression. The pistachio is one of three muted colours in Rolex’s 2025 expansion of the entry-level Oyster Perpetual — alongside beige and lavender — and it is available across every OP size. These two do not compete with each other; they complement each other.

Design and proportions — subtle changes

At first glance the models look almost identical. But the move to the 134300 brought a quietly revised case and a slightly refined bracelet clasp, giving an overall impression that feels a touch more streamlined and elegant on the wrist. Small details, but they show when you compare side by side. The bracelet is still the Oyster with the Easylink extension, exactly as it should be. The changes are iterative and focused — nearly impossible for casual observers to spot, which is very much the Rolex way.

The dial — where everything is decided

It is the dial that really sets these two apart.

124300 dark green: a sunburst finish, deep saturated colour, a more classic Rolex feel, and a strong everyday watch. 134300 pistachio: a soft matte lacquer, a light pastel tone, modern and trend-aware, and perfect as a summer watch. The dark green is more versatile and easier to wear year-round. The pistachio is bolder and more expressive — but in a subtle way.

The feeling on the wrist

The 124300 feels stable, self-evident, and reassuring. It is sporty but not sporty in an exaggerated way. It is a watch you can wear without thinking — and that is often when a watch is at its best. The 134300 feels lighter in its expression. It draws glances, especially in natural light. It suits lighter clothing and a summer style. It is a watch that gives energy.

Collector value and appeal

The 124300 is now discontinued in several colours, which keeps interest strong. Dark green has established itself as a modern classic within the Oyster Perpetual series. The 134300 is new on the market and pistachio has already become a talking point. It represents the new direction for the Oyster Perpetual — more muted but at the same time trend-conscious colours. For anyone considering a purchase, it is less about right or wrong and more about which feeling you want on the wrist.

Which one should you choose?

Want a more classic, versatile, and timeless green Rolex? Then the 124300 in dark green is an extremely strong choice. Want something that feels new, fresh, and a little more seasonal but still elegant? Then the 134300 pistachio is hard to ignore.

Personally I think the dark green is the ultimate everyday watch. But the pistachio version gives a lovely contrast — especially in summer. Two greens, two expressions, the same iconic foundation. If you like clean, no-date everyday watches, see our look at the new Grand Seiko 33mm Snowflake and Skyflake too.