Rolex Kermit vs. Starbucks: Unique Features Compared

Since its inception, the Submariner has represented a pinnacle of diving watch technology coupled with an iconic aesthetic. Among its iterations, the Rolex Kermit and the Starbucks stand out for their green bezels. However, they possess unique characteristics that set them apart.

The Rolex Kermit was the brand’s first dive watch with a green bezel, setting a precedent for future designs. In contrast, the Starbucks is a more recent addition, debuting with updated features such as a stronger bezel.

This Rolex Kermit vs Starbucks review compares unique features between these models so you can make an informed decision.

At A Glance

Here’s a breakdown of the Rolex Kermit’s and Starbuck’s key features:

Feature	Rolex Kermit (Ref. 16610LV)	Rolex Starbucks (Ref. 126610LV)
Bezel Material	Green Aluminum	Green Cerachrom
Case Size	40mm	41mm, slightly larger than the previous generation.
Movement	Caliber 3135	Caliber 3235
Bracelet	Oyster	Oyster
Crystal	Sapphire	Sapphire
Water Resistance	Up to 300m	Up to 300m
Year Introduced	2003 to mark the 50th anniversary of the Submariner	2020

The Rolex Kermit (Ref. 16610LV) and Rolex Starbucks (Ref. 126610LV) differ mainly in bezel material (green aluminum vs. green Cerachrom), case size (40mm vs. 41mm), and movement (Caliber 3135 vs. Caliber 3235), with the Kermit introduced in 2003 and the Starbucks in 2020, both featuring an Oyster bracelet, sapphire crystal, and 300m water resistance.

History and Evolution

Rolex introduced the Rolex Kermit ref. 16610LV in 2003 to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Submariner series. This model featured a distinctive green bezel paired with a classic black dial, setting a precedent for Rolex’s use of color in the line. The watch community affectionately christened it “Kermit” after the beloved muppet character of the same name due to its green coloring.

On the other hand, the Rolex Starbucks ref. 126610LV entered the scene as part of the newer generation of Submariners in 2020. It’s also known as the ‘Cermit’ and ‘Lunette Vette’ and built on the success of the original “Kermit,” offering a contemporary twist with its 41mm case size—an increase from the “Kermit’s” 40mm. 

It was named after the popular coffee chain ‘Starbucks’ since the green on its bezel resembles the green on the coffee chain’s logo. It maintains the green bezel’s traditional appeal but incorporates Rolex’s proprietary Cerachrom material, which provides improved durability and resistance to scratches.

The transition from the Rolex Kermit to the Rolex Starbucks showcases the brand’s commitment to evolution while preserving the Submariner line’s iconic design elements. These adaptations represent Rolex’s ongoing quest to refine and advance its watchmaking legacy through thoughtful design and technological innovation.

Design and Aesthetics

The Rolex Kermit and the Rolex Starbucks feature distinctive unidirectional rotating green bezels that honor the brand’s tradition yet differ in shade and context. Here’s a deeper look into their design and aesthetic differences:

Rolex Kermit

• Dial Color: Classic black ‘Maxi’ dial with larger hour markers and thicker Mercedes hands filled with blue-emitting Chromalight.
• Bezel Material: 904L Stainless Steel with an aluminum insert. It has a distinctive olive-green color and is prone to fading and scratching.
• Overall Design: Its bezel’s darker green shade stands out against the black dial, earning its name as the first Submariner with a green bezel.

Rolex Starbucks

• Dial Color: Sleek black ‘Maxi’ dial with larger hour markers and thicker Mercedes hands filled with blue-emitting Chromalight. However, its Mercedes hour hand is slightly wider, and the minute hand has a broader luminescent insert and touches the minute track. Additionally, there’s a tiny crown on the dial below six o’clock between the ‘SWISS’ and ‘MADE’ print to signify the presence of a new movement.
• Bezel Material: Oystersteel, with a Cerachrom insert. Cerachrom, Rolex’s proprietary ceramic, presents a richer and lighter green. It’s also scratch-resistant and fade-proof, earning the Starbucks a spot among the brand’s latest models.
• Overall Design: Heralded for its updated case size of 41mm, it introduces a contemporary twist to Submariner’s design cues, encapsulated by its lighter green bezel.

The green color in this Rolex Submariner Date underscores Rolex’s innovative approach to luxury watch design. The Kermit’s bezel introduces a striking contrast, while the Starbucks’ green ceramic bezel encapsulates a sense of homage to the branded color of a ubiquitous coffee chain.

Each model’s design is meticulously crafted, with the green elements serving as a bold statement on the wrist, drawing enthusiasts to appreciate Rolex’s mastery of fusing functional robustness with an aesthetically pleasing look.

Technical Specifications

The Rolex Kermit and Rolex Starbucks are esteemed Rolex watches within the Submariner collection. Each green Rolex Submariner is known for its distinctive green bezel, but they also have technical traits that set them apart.

Here’s a comparison of their main features:

Rolex Kermit

• Movement: Caliber 3135
• Case Size: 40mm
• Water Resistance: Up to 300 meters (1000 feet)
• Crystal: Sapphire
• Bezel: Aluminum insert
• Power Reserve: Approximately 48 hours

Rolex Starbucks

• Movement: Updated Caliber 3235
• Case Size: 41mm
• Water Resistance: Up to 300 meters (1000 feet)
• Crystal: Sapphire
• Bezel: Cerachrom insert
• Power Reserve: Approximately 70 hours

The Rolex Starbucks represents an evolution from the earlier Kermit model, featuring several notable advances besides the bezel insert material.

Case

First, the bigger Oystersteel 41mm case has thinner and more angled tapered lugs, which give it a more elegant and stylish look. Additionally, it boasts flatter and more symmetrical crown guards and a sapphire crystal with an anti-reflective coating on the inner side—a feature that the Kermit lacked.

Bracelet and Clasp

Over to the bracelet and clasp, sure, both Rolex models have the brand’s 3-link Oyster bracelet, but the Starbucks’ Oyster band is less tapered at its buckle, thus being in line with its more modern quality.

Movement

The last and most important improvement is the movement upgrade. The Starbucks shifts from the Kermit’s Caliber 3135 to the new Caliber 3235.

The Rolex Caliber 3135 is a highly regarded automatic movement that has powered many of Rolex’s most iconic timepieces since its introduction in 1988. Rolex uses a proprietary Parachrom hairspring in it, which is made from a niobium-zirconium alloy with an oxide coating. This makes the movement highly resistant to shocks and magnetic fields, significantly improving its reliability and accuracy over time.

On the other hand, the Caliber 3235 is a significant advancement of the Caliber 3135, boasting a Chronergy escapement which contributes to its energy efficiency, a high capacity barrel that enables its higher power reserve (70 hours over the previous 48 hours), and an upgraded and tweaked blue Parachrom hairspring for a greater resistance to shocks and magnetic fields.

Both models maintain the same level of water resistance, up to 300 meters, a standard set by Rolex’s Submariner line. 

Market Reception and Value

Since its launch, the Rolex Submariner Kermit enjoyed a positive market reception. The model encapsulated a novelty with its distinctive green bezels. Its discontinuation in 2010 further fueled its desirability in the secondary market, resulting in a steady increase in its value.

In contrast, the newly minted Rolex Starbucks began its journey in 2020, building upon the Kermit’s legacy with a refreshed design. Its updated features include a larger 41mm case size and the improved Caliber 3235 movement, adding to its functional appeal.

Investment potential for these models varies. The Kermit’s current market value is attributed to its status as a collectible, with resale prices often exceeding original retail. For example, WatchCharts indicates its pre-owned price is S$19,248- which is higher than its S$8,635 retail price.

The Starbucks, while not as steeply priced, promises potential for appreciation due to its recent entry into the market and modern technical advancements. According to WatchCharts, it has a S$20,481 pre-owned price and a S$14,571 retail price.

Moreover, WatchBase shows a rise in its price between 2020 and 2024, from S$13,313 on September 1, 2020, S$14,776 on January 19, 2022, S$15,800 on January 10, 2023, and S$16,385 on January 1, 2024.

Collectors and investors are drawn to the rarity and historical significance of the Kermit, while others may opt for the Starbucks for its contemporary features and the prestige of owning a current-generation Rolex Submariner.

Collector’s Perspective

From a collector’s standpoint, the Rolex Kermit and the Starbucks Submariner are more than just timepieces; they’re part of horological history with distinct characteristics that appeal to different individuals.

Rolex Kermit

• Nicknamed after the famous green muppet, its green bezel is a nod to the Submariner’s 50th anniversary.
• It features the older Caliber 3135 movement, which has a historical charm.
• Being the first iteration of Rolex’s foray into colored bezels, its discontinued status adds a layer of rarity and potential value appreciation over time.

Rolex Starbucks

• Recognized for its updated Caliber 3235 movement, which provides enhanced precision.
• It’s a more recent introduction, which means it may be more accessible but less rare for collectors.
• With 70 hours of power reserve compared to the Kermit’s 48 hours, it also offers practical improvements for daily wear.

Features	Rolex Kermit	Rolex Starbucks
Bezel Color	Traditional Green	Richer Green Tone
Movement	Caliber 3135	Caliber 3235
Power Reserve	48 Hours	70 Hours
Rarity	Higher (Discontinued)	Lower (Current Model)

In essence, collectors often prefer the Kermit for its historical significance and potential value as an older, discontinued model. Meanwhile, those who value technical advancements and contemporaneity might favor the Rolex Starbucks, with its modern enhancements and current production status. 

Each model holds a unique position in the realm of luxury watches, resonating differently depending on the collector’s priorities.

So which is better?

When it comes to the Rolex Kermit versus the Rolex Starbucks, you should assess both aesthetic preferences and technical aspects as a potential buyer. Here are some factors and advice to consider when deciding between the two:

Historical Significance vs. Modern Features

• Kermit: Offers historical significance as it marked the Submariner’s 50th anniversary and introduced a color variation to the traditionally monochrome line. Collectors who value Rolex’s historical milestones might lean towards the Kermit.
• Starbucks: Represents the evolution of Rolex’s technology and design, featuring the newer Caliber 3235 with improved power reserve and accuracy. It may be more appealing to those who appreciate the latest advancements in watchmaking.

Design Preferences

• Color Contrast: The Kermit is known for its stark contrast between the green bezel and the black dial, offering a unique aesthetic. If you prefer a watch that stands out with a more vibrant contrast, the Kermit could be the choice.
• Unified Color Scheme: The Starbucks, with its green Cerachrom bezel matched with a black dial, presents a more uniform look. Collectors who appreciate a subtle integration of color might favor the Starbucks.

Investment Potential

• Limited Availability: The Kermit, being discontinued, might have a higher collectible value over time due to its limited availability and significance in Rolex’s history. Its aluminum bezel may develop a unique patina over time, which can add character to the watch – a feature absent in the ceramic bezel of the Starbucks- and can contribute to its investment appeal.
• Current Production: The Submariner Starbucks, being a part of the current lineup, might be easier to acquire new but could also hold its value well due to its modern features and improvements in the movement.

Wearability and Functionality

• Daily Wear: If the watch is intended for frequent wear, consider the advancements in the Starbucks, such as the improved power reserve and the resistance to magnetic fields, which might offer a more practical choice.
• Special Occasions: For collectors who seek a watch for special occasions, the unique story and design of the Kermit could make it a more distinctive choice.

Personal Connection

Beyond technical specifications and market trends, the personal connection to a watch can significantly influence your decision. Whether it’s an affinity for the story behind the Kermit or the technological advancements of the Starbucks, choosing a watch that resonates personally with you will ensure long-term satisfaction.

Ultimately, the choice comes down to personal preferences regarding aesthetics, your budget, the importance of watch heritage, and the value you place on the latest advancements in watchmaking.

Final Word

The Rolex Kermit and Starbucks embody Rolex’s commitment to craftsmanship and the Submariner’s storied heritage. The preference for one over the other often reflects an individual’s philosophy toward timepiece collection — reverence for the past or an embrace of the present.

Key Takeaways

• The Rolex Kermit boasts a classic 40mm case diameter, while the Starbucks version increases slightly to 41mm, offering a more prominent presence on the wrist.
• The original Kermit has a black dial paired with a distinctive green bezel. The newer Starbucks maintains the green bezel but adds subtle changes to its hue, reflecting the evolution of the Submariner line’s aesthetic.
• The Kermit model, having been discontinued, is now available predominantly on the secondary market. As a current model, the Starbucks can be located at Rolex dealers and various retail platforms, both new and pre-owned.

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