Rolex released the first green Submariner, the “Rolex Kermit” ref. 16610LV, in 2003 to commemorate the collection’s 50th anniversary. It remained in production until 2010, when the first series of 6-digit models hit the market. Fast-forward to 2020 and the current green model, the “Rolex Starbucks” ref. 126610LV. Both follow many of the same design codes. They’re both stainless steel divers and have black dials and green bezels. However, they come from different eras and have important differences in case size, movement, and materials. The Kermit has an aluminum bezel, while the Starbucks is more contemporary with a ceramic “Cerachrom” bezel and Rolex’s latest movement.
Key Takeaways:
- Bezel Material: The Kermit (16610LV) has a bright aluminum bezel that can develop patina, while the Starbucks (126610LV) features a scratch-resistant green Cerachrom (ceramic) bezel.
- Case Size: Kermit comes in the classic 40mm case. Starbucks uses the new generation 41mm case.
- Movement: Kermit runs on the trusty Caliber 3135. Starbucks is powered by the newer Caliber 3235 with longer power reserve.
- Production: The Kermit is discontinued (2003–2010) and considered a collector’s item. The Starbucks is currently in production (2020–Present).
- Market Status: Depending on the variation, the Kermit commands higher prices on the secondary market due to rarity and history. The Starbucks is in high demand thanks to modern features like the Glidelock clasp.
Picking between the two really comes down to whether you want a vintage watch with the possiblity of more patina, like the Kermit, or the latest technology of the Starbucks.
The Rolex Submariner Kermit vs. Starbucks: A Side-by-Side Comparison
To fully understand the differences between the two Submariner watches, we first need to look at their technical specs and their place in Rolex history.
Quick Reference Table: Kermit (16610LV) vs. Starbucks (126610LV)
| Feature | Kermit (16610LV) | Starbucks (126610LV) |
| Nickname | Kermit, LV (Lunette Verte) | Starbucks, Cermit, LV (Lunette Verte) |
| Reference No. | 16610LV | 126610LV |
| Production Years | 2003–2010 (Discontinued) | 2020–Present (Current) |
| Case Diameter | 40mm | 41mm |
| Bezel Material | Aluminum (brighter green) | Cerachrom Ceramic (darker, olive green) |
| Dial | Black Maxi Dial | Black Maxi Dial |
| Movement | Caliber 3135 | Caliber 3235 |
| Power Reserve | ~48 hours | ~70 hours |
| Clasp | Standard Diver’s Extension | Modern Glidelock System |
Model History and Nicknames: An Origin Story
Ref. 16610LV was the first stainless steel Submariner with a green bezel when Rolex released it back in 2003. It was this colorful green Submariner bezel that inspired the nickname, “Rolex Kermit,” because it reminded many collectors of the beloved Muppet character.
Ref. 126610LV generally goes by two different nicknames: “Rolex Cermit,” which is a combination of Kermit and ceramic, and “Rolex Starbucks” because the green and black colorway matches that of the famed coffee company’s logo. Some collectors still use “Cermit,” but “Starbucks” has become the more widely accepted moniker in many watch-collecting circles.
Key Differences in Design and Engineering
The evolution between the Kermit and the Submariner isn’t just about looks. It also represents improved materials and more reliable technical functionality for everyday wear.
Bezel Material and Color: Aluminum vs. Ceramic
The Kermit’s green aluminum insert was groundbreaking when it debuted because Rolex had never used a colored bezel on a stainless steel Submariner before. Unlike ceramic, aluminum is more prone to developing patina. The exact shade of green can vary depending on the year the watch was made. Collectors appreciate this type of variation because it adds character to each watch.
The Starbucks 126610LV, on the other hand, uses Rolex’s proprietary ceramic material, called Cerachrom, which is virtually scratch-proof and fade-resistant. The color is usually a deeper, more olive-toned green than the Kermit. It’s also more lustrous and has a more vibrant color even when exposed to ultraviolet light or saltwater.
The Case Dimensions: 40mm vs. 41mm
For decades, 40mm was the go-to case size for most Rolex sports watches, including the Kermit. It wasn’t until the Starbucks and the rest of the 1266XX generation debuted in 2020 that Rolex upgraded the Submariner to a 41mm case. Rolex slimmed down the lugs and refined the case geometry, making the 41mm design feel less bulky than the previous 6-digit generation “Rolex Hulk.”
The updated case also sits differently on the wrist. The narrower lugs allow the Starbucks to wear more elegantly, particularly for those with smaller to medium-sized wrists.
The Clasp and Bracelet: Modern Wearability
A key benefit of the Starbucks is its updated bracelet and clasp. The 126610LV’s Oyster bracelet features the Glidelock extension system, so you can adjust the fit in 2mm increments without any tools. This upgrade makes it easy to change your watch as your wrist size changes throughout the day.
The Kermit (16610LV) comes with an older-style bracelet with a basic folding clasp. It works well and is still very dependable, but it’s not as easy to adjust and doesn’t have the extension features found on newer Rolex bracelets.
The Engine Room: Caliber 3135 vs. Caliber 3235
The movements in these two watches prove just how much Rolex’s technology has improved from the early 2000s to 2020.
- Caliber 3135 (Kermit): Rolex used the caliber 3135 movement for decades and across multiple models. It has a solid 48-hour power reserve and has proven reliable in countless watches since Rolex released it in 1988.
- Caliber 3235 (Starbucks): Rolex’s latest time-and-date movement with the following upgrades:
- 70-Hour Power Reserve: A substantial increase that allows the watch to run from Friday evening through Monday morning, earning it the “weekend-proof” designation.
- Chronergy Escapement: Rolex’s patented design that improves energy efficiency and has greater resistance to magnetic fields.
- Paraflex Shock Absorbers: Enhanced protection against shocks and impacts compared to the previous generation movement.
The Caliber 3235 uses Rolex’s own Parachrom hairspring, which stands up well to changes in temperature and magnetic fields. Plus, Rolex guarantees accuracy within -2/+2 seconds per day after casing.
The Green Trilogy: Where Does the Rolex Hulk Fit In?
The “Hulk” ref. 116610LV is integral to the history of Rolex’s green Submariners. This watch was made from 2010 to 2020 and came between the Kermit and the Starbucks models. What sets the Hulk apart is its monochromatic design set, pairing a green Cerachrom bezel with a matching green sunburst dial. It has a 40mm “Super” case with thicker lugs and uses the Caliber 3135 movement.
Here’s how the three models compare:
- Kermit: Aluminum Bezel / Black Dial / 40mm / Discontinued
- Hulk: Ceramic Bezel / Green Dial / 40mm / Discontinued
- Starbucks: Ceramic Bezel / Black Dial / 41mm / Current Production
Rolex discontinued both the Kermit and the Hulk, which has only increased collector interest on the secondary market. The Starbucks carries on the green bezel/black dial tradition the Kermit started, but with modern updates.
Investment Value and Collector Sentiment: Does Starbucks Hold Value?
It’s important to understand how luxury watches perform and how collectors view them. Both the Kermit and Starbucks models have solid reputations, but for different reasons.
The Collectibility of the Discontinued Kermit
Many collectors consider the Rolex Kermit ref. 16610LV the more desirable option. It’s a 50th anniversary Rolex, produced from 2003 to 2010, which only adds to its historical appeal. Also, the variation in the aluminum bezel across different batches has led to rare versions that are especially valuable. Collectors particularly seek out the Kermit Flat 4 versions (where the “4” on the bezel has a flat top instead of an open top), which appeared in early production and are now considered more desirable.
Watch market analysts report that the Kermit has steadily increased in value since it was discontinued. Pre-owned models in excellent condition usually sell for 150% to 200% of their original price, depending on their condition and history. Each aluminum bezel can develop its own unique patina, which makes these watches even more collectible.
Analyzing the Starbucks Market Performance
Yes, the Rolex Starbucks (126610LV) holds value exceptionally well. As a current production model, it trades significantly above its retail price of $11,200 (as of 2025), reflecting strong demand for Rolex sport watches. While it trades hands for around the same price as the discontinued Kermit, the Starbucks benefits from widespread enthusiasm for the new 41mm case and the superior Caliber 3235 movement.
When looking at Rolex watches as an investment, consider the limited inventory at ADs, which helps the Starbucks do well in the secondary market. Buyers often face long wait times at authorized dealers, sometimes lasting months or even years. As a result, many turn to the pre-owned market. This mix of current production and limited supply gives the Starbucks model a special place in the market.
The Final Verdict on the Rolex Kermit and Starbucks Showdown
While the best watches for men can be subjective, both of these models certainly have a place among the top Rolex watches. When comparing the two green-bezeled Submariners, the Rolex 16610LV and 126610LV, the choice really comes down to your own preferences as a watch collector or enthusiast. The 126610LV, also known as the Starbucks, wins for its technical upgrades, like a 70-hour power reserve, a tough Cerachrom bezel, and the practical Glidelock clasp. If you’re looking for a modern everyday watch with the latest Rolex engineering, the 126610LV is a great option.
If you care more about watch history and want something that marks a key point in Rolex’s vast story, the discontinued Kermit is an excellent choice. Its aluminum bezel, the chance for a unique patina, and its role as the 50th Anniversary model make it special for some collectors. In the end, your choice comes down to whether you watch a watch with history and a bit more rarity (Kermit) or prefer modern features and comfort (Starbucks). Both watches demonstrate what Rolex does best in the green Submariner collection, just in different ways.
