Rolex Kermit vs Starbucks — Key Differences, Value & Which One to Buy

Green-bezeled Submariners represent some of the most iconic and sought-after watches in Rolex history. The distinctive green bezel has become synonymous with Rolex's tool-watch heritage, celebrating the Submariner's 50th anniversary with the introduction of the "Kermit" in 2003 and evolving through to today's "Starbucks" reference.

Both watches feature black dials paired with green bezels on Submariner cases, creating similar appearances. However, these references represent fundamentally different eras of Rolex manufacturing—one embodies vintage charm and collector scarcity, while the other showcases modern engineering and contemporary aesthetics.

What Is the Rolex Kermit?

The Rolex Kermit (Reference 16610LV) launched in 2003 celebrating the Submariner's 50th anniversary. This special edition introduced the first green-bezeled Submariner since the line's inception, marking a significant departure from the traditional black bezel that defined Submariner identity for five decades.

Key identifiers:

• Green aluminum bezel
• Black "maxi" dial
• 40mm case with slim lugs
• Oyster bracelet
• Caliber 3135 movement

The Kermit remained in production from 2003 to 2010, making it a relatively short seven-year run. This limited production window contributes significantly to its current collectability and value.

The watch community dubbed this reference "Kermit" because the green bezel paired with black dial resembles the beloved Muppets character. According to vintage watch dealer Eric Wind, "The Kermit nickname humanized what could have been just another reference number. It gave the watch personality and made it memorable in ways that '16610LV' never could."

What Is the Rolex Starbucks?

The Rolex Starbucks (Reference 126610LV) debuted in 2020 as part of Rolex's comprehensive Submariner redesign introducing the new generation of dive watches featuring upgraded movements, refined cases, and enhanced materials.

Key identifiers:

• Green ceramic bezel
• Black dial
• 41mm case with wider lugs
• Updated Oyster bracelet
• Caliber 3235 movement

As a current-production model, the Starbucks remains available through authorized dealers. The ongoing production affects market dynamics and pricing significantly compared to the discontinued Kermit.

The watch community initially called this reference the "Cermit" (ceramic Kermit), but "Starbucks" ultimately prevailed as the preferred nickname. The name references the coffee chain's iconic green and black logo colors matching the watch's bezel and dial combination perfectly.

The Starbucks represents Rolex's current vision for the rolex submariner—incorporating every technological advancement the brand has developed while maintaining the design DNA that makes Submariners instantly recognizable. It sits alongside the classic black-bezeled Submariner and the "Hulk's" successor (the all-green 126610LV) in Rolex's dive watch hierarchy.

Rolex Kermit vs Starbucks: Side-by-Side Comparison

Feature	Rolex Kermit	Rolex Starbucks
Reference	16610LV	126610LV
Production years	2003–2010	2020–Present
Bezel material	Aluminum	Ceramic (Cerachrom)
Case size	40mm (slim lugs)	41mm (wider lugs)
Movement	Cal. 3135	Cal. 3235
Power reserve	~48 hours	~70 hours
Lume	Super-LumiNova	Chromalight
Collectability	High (discontinued)	High (current model)

Design Differences: Vintage Feel vs Modern Rolex

The most immediately noticeable distinction involves bezel color. The Kermit's aluminum bezel displays a lighter, brighter green with slightly yellowish undertones—some describe it as "lime green" in certain lighting. The Starbucks' ceramic bezel shows deeper, richer green with more consistent color saturation and blue-green undertones resembling forest or emerald green.

The 1mm case diameter increase from 40mm to 41mm sounds minimal but creates noticeable differences in wrist presence. The Starbucks' wider lugs particularly impact how the watch wears—it feels more substantial and modern, with increased visual weight.

The Kermit features Rolex's traditional Oyster bracelet with stamped clasp—a proven design but lacking modern conveniences. The Starbucks incorporates the Glidelock extension system allowing tool-free length adjustment in 2mm increments—invaluable for temperature changes, different clothing, or wearing over wetsuits during diving.

Why design preference is subjective: Collectors often favor the Kermit's vintage proportions and aluminum bezel character. Daily wearers typically prefer the Starbucks' modern refinements—ceramic durability, improved clasp, and upgraded movement justify the newer reference despite losing some vintage charm.

Movement & Technical Differences

The Starbucks' Caliber 3235 incorporates Rolex's latest innovations:

• Chronergy escapement: Improved efficiency increasing power reserve by 50% (48 hours to 70 hours)
• Optimized barrel geometry: Better energy storage and release
• Improved shock resistance: Enhanced Paraflex shock absorbers
• Tighter accuracy standards: -2/+2 seconds per day (vs. -2/+4 for 3135)

Rolex Kermit vs Starbucks: Market Price & Value (2026)

Model	Typical Market Price
Rolex Kermit (16610LV)	$18,000 – $25,000+
Rolex Starbucks (126610LV)	$14,000 – $18,000

The Kermit commands a $4,000-$7,000 premium over the Starbucks despite being the older, technically inferior watch. This premium reflects pure collectability—discontinued status, anniversary significance, and seven-year production run versus current production.

Factors affecting price:

For the Kermit:

• Condition: Pristine examples with minimal bezel wear command highest premiums
• Box and papers: Complete sets add 15-25% to value; papers alone add 10-15%
• Production year: "Flat 4" bezel variants (early production) bring premiums; later "maxi dial" versions also coveted
• Service history: Documented Rolex service maintains value; unserviced watches selling for less
• Bezel condition: Ironically, some fading actually increases desirability among collectors seeking authentic patina

For the Starbucks:

• Retail relationship: Obtaining at $10,400 retail (2026 MSRP) represents significant discount to gray market
• Warranty card date: Newer cards indicate more remaining warranty
• Condition: Current production means excellent condition is expected—poor condition reduces value dramatically
• Market timing:Premium over retail fluctuates based on supply and demand cycles

Investment & Collectability

The Kermit checks multiple collector boxes: limited production run (seven years), anniversary significance (50th Submariner anniversary), discontinued status (no longer manufactured), and transitional design (bridge between vintage and modern eras). These factors create a strong long-term value proposition.

Starbucks as a modern Rolex with long-term potential: Current-production status limits near-term appreciation potential, but the Starbucks represents the current pinnacle of Submariner design. When eventually discontinued, it will become the collectible modern reference from this era.

Which has stronger upside historically: The Kermit currently offers stronger near-term appreciation potential due to fixed supply meeting growing demand. The Starbucks faces headwinds from ongoing production but should appreciate once discontinued, especially if Rolex eventually changes the design significantly.

Luxury watch expert Paul Boutros of Phillips Auctioneers explains, "Anniversary models with limited production runs consistently outperform regular references long-term. The Kermit has all the hallmarks of a blue-chip collectible, while the Starbucks is still establishing its legacy."

Additional Information to Consider Before Buying

Aluminum bezel aging vs ceramic durability: Most comparisons mention that ceramic bezels don't fade or scratch while aluminum bezels do—framing this as ceramic superiority. However, many collectors specifically prefer aluminum bezels because they age and develop character. A faded Kermit bezel with slight color shifts and minor scratches tells the story of a watch that's been worn and enjoyed.

Service costs and replacement parts: Here's what dealers won't emphasize: Kermit bezel inserts cost $800-1,200 for genuine Rolex replacement, and they're increasingly difficult to source. Ceramic Starbucks bezels cost even more ($1,500-2,000+) but rarely need replacement due to durability.

However, Kermit owners often prefer keeping original faded bezels rather than replacing them with fresh inserts that eliminate the watch's character. The Starbucks' ceramic bezel stays perfect but offers no choice—it looks identical to every other Starbucks bezel.

The emotional aspect of ownership differs dramatically. Kermit owners often report stronger attachment because the watch requires more care and develops personality through aging. Starbucks owners appreciate worry-free daily wear but sometimes feel less connected to a watch that remains perpetually perfect. Neither approach is wrong—they appeal to different collector psychologies.

Which One Should You Buy?

Buy the Rolex Kermit if you value:

• Vintage feel and classic proportions: 40mm case with slim lugs wears beautifully on most wrists
• Rarity and discontinued status: Limited seven-year production creates genuine scarcity
• Collector appeal: Anniversary significance and transitional design attract serious collectors
• Aluminum bezel character: Appreciate watches that age gracefully and develop patina
• Investment potential: Established appreciation pattern with strong long-term outlook
• Rolex history: Own a piece of Submariner's 50th anniversary celebration
• Unique aesthetics: Lighter green shade stands apart from all other green Rolex bezels

Best for:Collectors building curated collections, vintage enthusiasts, investors seeking appreciation potential, those with smaller wrists preferring classic proportions.

Buy the Rolex Starbucks if you value:

• Modern specifications: Caliber 3235's 70-hour power reserve and improved accuracy
• Durability: Ceramic bezel maintains pristine appearance indefinitely
• Daily wear comfort: Glidelock clasp and improved bracelet enhance wearability
• Current production: Ability to purchase brand new with full warranty from authorized dealers
• Technical advancement: Latest Rolex technology and manufacturing refinements
• Lower entry cost: $4,000-7,000 less expensive than Kermit for similar watch
• Worry-free ownership: Ceramic construction eliminates concerns about scratching or fading

Best for: Daily wearers seeking modern tool watch, first-time Rolex buyers, those prioritizing specifications over vintage character, buyers wanting authorized dealer warranty.

Wearing Experience & Lifestyle Fit

Daily wear vs collecting: The Starbucks excels as a daily wearer, as the ceramic bezel resists scratches from desk-diving, door frames, and daily abuse. The improved movement's 70-hour reserve means it keeps running through weekends off your wrist. The Glidelock clasp allows quick adjustment for temperature changes or different clothing.

The Kermit can absolutely serve as a daily wearer, but many owners baby them due to collectability and replacement parts concerns. Scratching the aluminum bezel on a door frame feels more consequential when that bezel costs $1,000+ to replace and the watch represents a $20,000+ collectible.

Suitability for travel, water use, and sports: Both watches offer 300-meter water resistance suitable for recreational diving and water sports. The Starbucks' ceramic bezel provides worry-free durability for active lifestyles—bumps, scratches, and impacts that would mar aluminum bezels leave ceramic unmarked.

For actual diving or serious water sports, the Starbucks' modern movement, improved seals, and durable bezel provide more confidence. The Kermit absolutely handles these activities capability-wise, but psychological comfort using a $20,000+ vintage collectible for rough activities varies by owner.

Comfort and balance on wrist: The Kermit's 40mm case with slim lugs creates balanced proportions that many consider the ideal Submariner size. It wears comfortably under dress shirt cuffs and doesn't dominate smaller wrists. The lighter overall weight feels sportier and less substantial.

The Starbucks' 41mm case and wider lugs create more wrist presence. On larger wrists, this heftier appearance works beautifully. On smaller wrists, some wearers find it slightly too dominant. The heavier weight from ceramic bezel and solid bracelet components feels more substantial—a positive or negative depending on preference.

Conclusion

The rolex starbucks vs kermit debate ultimately comes down to priorities: vintage character versus modern refinement, collector scarcity versus current technology, patina development versus pristine durability. Both watches represent exceptional rolex watches, and choosing between them depends on your collecting philosophy and intended use. Visit Luxury of Watches to explore authenticated Kermit and Starbucks references alongside our complete selection of luxury watches from the world's finest manufacturers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Rolex Kermit discontinued?

Yes, the Rolex Kermit was discontinued in 2010 after a seven-year production run from 2003-2010. This discontinued status significantly contributes to its current collectability and market value. Rolex replaced it with the "Hulk" from 2010-2020, before introducing the current Starbucks in 2020.

Why is the Rolex Starbucks called Starbucks?

The Rolex Starbucks nickname comes from the watch community's observation that the green ceramic bezel paired with black dial perfectly matches Starbucks coffee shop's iconic green and black logo colors. While Rolex officially designates this watch as the Submariner Date (Reference 126610LV), collectors universally use "Starbucks" for easy identification and memorable conversation.

Which is more valuable: Kermit or Starbucks?

The Kermit typically commands higher market values compared to the Starbucks. This reflects the Kermit's discontinued status, anniversary significance, limited seven-year production run, and established collector appeal. Long-term, the Kermit's fixed supply and historical significance likely sustain its premium over current-production Starbucks models.

Is the Rolex Starbucks a good investment?

The Starbucks can be a good investment with realistic expectations. As a current-production model, near-term appreciation is limited—it trades 30-70% above retail, but ongoing production caps upside until discontinuation. Long-term (10-20+ years), the Starbucks should appreciate as it becomes the collectible Submariner from the 2020s era.