The Ultimate Showdown: Rolex Hulk Vs. Kermit Vs. Starbucks—Which Green Submariner Is The Best Investment In 2025?
The Green Submariner Family Tree: Kermit, Hulk, and Starbucks
The history of the green bezel Submariner is a story of evolution, starting with a 50th-anniversary celebration and culminating in a trio of modern collector's items. Each model—the 16610LV, the 116610LV, and the 126610LV—holds a unique place in the hearts of watch enthusiasts and collectors.- Rolex Submariner Date Ref. 16610LV "Kermit" (2003–2010): The original green Submariner, released to celebrate the model's 50th Anniversary. It features a classic black dial and a vibrant green aluminum bezel insert. It retains the slimmer case profile and older Caliber 3135 movement of the five-digit era.
- Rolex Submariner Date Ref. 116610LV "Hulk" (2010–2020): The game-changer. The Hulk introduced both a green Cerachrom ceramic bezel and a sunburst green dial, making it the only all-green steel Submariner. It featured the larger "Maxi Case" and the Caliber 3135. It was discontinued in 2020, instantly skyrocketing its collector status.
- Rolex Submariner Date Ref. 126610LV "Starbucks" or "Cermit" (2020–Present): The current production model. It merges the black dial/green bezel aesthetic of the original Kermit with the modern advancements of the 41mm case, slimmer lugs, and the next-generation Caliber 3235 movement.
Technical Specifications: Five-Digit vs. Six-Digit vs. New Generation
The differences between these three references go far beyond just the color of the dial. They represent three distinct generations of Rolex engineering, impacting everything from wrist-feel to long-term reliability.Case and Bezel: The Aesthetics of Green
The most immediate visual difference lies in the case and the bezel material. The original Kermit (16610LV) features a traditional 40mm case with elegant, slim lugs and a bezel made of aluminum. This aluminum bezel is prone to fading, which is highly desirable for collectors, as it creates a unique "patina" over time.
The Hulk (116610LV) introduced the Cerachrom ceramic bezel, which is virtually scratch-proof and UV-resistant. More significantly, it debuted the "Maxi Case," a 40mm case with noticeably thicker lugs and crown guards, giving it a much bulkier presence on the wrist despite the same diameter.
The modern Starbucks (126610LV) has evolved the design. While it is technically 41mm, its lugs are slimmer than the Hulk's Maxi Case, offering a more balanced and refined profile closer to the original Kermit, but with the durability of the Cerachrom bezel.
Movement: The Caliber 3135 vs. Caliber 3235 Upgrade
For the technical collector, the movement is the dealbreaker. The Hulk and the original Kermit are powered by the robust, long-serving Caliber 3135, which offers a standard 48-hour power reserve. This movement is a workhorse, but it has been superseded by Rolex's latest technology.
The current Starbucks (126610LV) is equipped with the new-generation Caliber 3235. This movement is a significant technical leap, featuring the patented Chronergy escapement and an enhanced mainspring barrel. The result is a dramatically increased 70-hour power reserve, allowing the watch to be taken off on Friday evening and still be running on Monday morning.
The Investment Outlook for 2025: Market Prices and Collector Status
The grey market is where the true battle for supremacy is fought, especially for the discontinued models. As of 2025, the investment potential for each green Submariner is heavily dictated by its rarity and historical significance.Rolex Submariner 116610LV "Hulk" Price Analysis
The Hulk’s discontinuation in 2020 instantly cemented its status as a modern classic. Its all-green aesthetic, particularly the mesmerizing sunburst dial, makes it a true statement piece with no direct replacement. As a result, the Hulk commands a strong premium.
- Grey Market Price (2025): $17,000 – $30,000 USD (depending on condition and papers). A well-kept example typically trades in the $23,000 USD range.
- Investment Potential: High. As the only all-green steel Submariner, its scarcity is guaranteed. Its unique look ensures continued demand among collectors who want a bold, discontinued reference.
Rolex Submariner 16610LV "Kermit" Price Analysis
The original Kermit, the 50th Anniversary Submariner, is the most "vintage" of the trio. Its five-digit reference and aluminum bezel appeal to purists. Furthermore, highly sought-after dial and bezel variations (known as "Mark" dials or "Flat 4" bezels) drive prices to extreme highs.
- Grey Market Price (2025): $20,000 – $28,000+ USD for standard models. Rarest versions like the "Flat 4" can exceed $35,000 USD.
- Investment Potential: Very High. Its appeal is rooted in history and rarity. While the Hulk has a higher floor price for a standard model, the rare variants of the Kermit offer the highest ceiling for appreciation due to their specific collector-grade nuances.
Rolex Submariner 126610LV "Starbucks" Price Analysis
The Starbucks is the modern, technically superior choice. It is the only model available from an Authorized Dealer (AD), though it is still incredibly difficult to purchase at retail price due to overwhelming demand. Its black dial and green ceramic bezel are a direct homage to the original Kermit, but with the added benefit of the 70-hour power reserve and a more wearable case design.
- Grey Market Price (2025): $15,000 – $19,000 USD (a significant premium over its retail price).
- Investment Potential: Moderate to High. As a current production model, its appreciation is capped by the fact that Rolex continues to produce it. However, its technical superiority and high demand ensure it maintains a strong premium over retail, making it a safe, modern investment.
Conclusion: Which Green Submariner Should You Choose?
The choice between the Kermit, Hulk, and Starbucks ultimately depends on your priority: rarity, visual impact, or modern technology.If you prioritize Rarity and Vintage Appeal, the Rolex Submariner 16610LV "Kermit" is the undeniable winner. Its aluminum bezel, slimmer case, and historical significance as the 50th-anniversary piece make it the purist's choice and the one with the highest potential for appreciation in its rarest forms.
If you seek the Ultimate Statement Piece and Collector Value, the discontinued Rolex Submariner 116610LV "Hulk" is the watch for you. Its unique sunburst green dial and bulky Maxi Case ensure it stands out in any crowd and its scarcity is a powerful driver of its value.
If you want the Best Modern Daily Wearer with Superior Technology, the Rolex Submariner 126610LV "Starbucks" is the logical choice. Its 70-hour power reserve and balanced 41mm case make it the most practical and technologically advanced green Submariner available today.
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