Green Bezel, Black Dial: The Formula Returns
The Rolex Submariner Date 126610LV — nicknamed “Starbucks” (after the coffee chain’s green logo) or “New Kermit” (after the original 2003 16610LV) — is the current green Submariner. Unlike the all-green “Hulk” (116610LV, 2010-2020), the Starbucks returns to the original Kermit formula: green bezel, black dial. This combination is more versatile, more wearable, and — in the opinion of many collectors — more timeless than the Hulk’s all-green assault.
Specifications
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Case | 41mm × 12.5mm, 904L Oystersteel |
| Movement | Cal. 3235 (70h, Chronergy, Superlative) |
| Bezel | Green Cerachrom ceramic, unidirectional 60-min |
| Dial | BLACK (not green — key difference from Hulk) |
| Crystal | Sapphire + Cyclops |
| Bracelet | Oyster with Glidelock (2mm × 10 positions = 20mm range) |
| WR | 300m |
| Retail | $10,250 |
| Secondary | $16,000-$18,000 |
Starbucks vs Hulk: The Key Differences
| Factor | Starbucks (126610LV) | Hulk (116610LV) |
|---|---|---|
| Dial | BLACK | GREEN sunburst |
| Case | 41mm (new gen) | 40mm (Maxi case) |
| Movement | Cal. 3235 (70h) | Cal. 3135 (48h) |
| Production | Current (2020-present) | DISCONTINUED (2010-2020) |
| Secondary | $16,000-$18,000 | $18,000-$22,000 |
The Starbucks is technically superior (newer movement, 22 more hours of reserve, 1mm larger case). The Hulk is more collectible (discontinued, all-green uniqueness). For daily wear: Starbucks. For collection value: Hulk.
Why “Starbucks” and Not “Kermit”?
Both nicknames are used. “Kermit” technically refers to the original 16610LV (2003-2010) with aluminum bezel. “Starbucks” distinguishes the 126610LV’s ceramic bezel from the original’s aluminum. Some collectors use “New Kermit” to bridge both — acknowledging the green-bezel/black-dial lineage while noting the ceramic upgrade. Rolex calls it none of these things.
Investment Outlook
The Starbucks trades at 56-76% over retail — strong but below the Hulk’s 100-140% premium. As a current-production reference, the Starbucks’s premium is maintained by controlled AD supply, not scarcity. If/when Rolex discontinues the 126610LV, expect a Hulk-style appreciation spike. The green bezel Submariner is Rolex’s most culturally significant current-production sports reference after the Daytona.
Frequently Asked Questions
Black dial or green dial — which looks better?
Subjective — the black dial is more versatile (matches everything). The green dial (Hulk) is bolder and more distinctive. Most collectors who’ve owned both prefer the black for daily wear and the green for collection display.
Is the Starbucks hard to buy at retail?
Yes — 1-3 year waiting list at most ADs. It’s easier than the Daytona or Pepsi GMT but harder than the black Sub or Datejust. Building an AD relationship helps.
Do you carry the Starbucks?
Yes — our Submariner collection includes both Starbucks (green bezel/black dial) and Hulk (green bezel/green dial) configurations. 904L Oystersteel, Cerachrom ceramic bezel, Swiss automatic movement. Free worldwide shipping + 1-year warranty.
