For decades, the Rolex Submariner has reigned supreme as the quintessential dive watch, a symbol of adventure, luxury, and impeccable engineering. Within this iconic collection, certain models have achieved legendary status, captivating collectors and enthusiasts alike. Among these coveted timepieces, the green bezel variants stand out, instantly recognizable and highly sought-after. This article delves into the captivating world of green Rolex Submariners, specifically pitting two heavyweight contenders against each other: the discontinued Rolex Submariner 116610LV "Hulk" and its successor, the Rolex Submariner 126610LV "Starbucks" (or "Cermit" to some purists). We'll explore their distinct characteristics, compare their features head-to-head, analyze their investment potential, and ultimately help you understand which green giant might be the right choice for you.
Meet the Contenders: Hulk and Starbucks – A Tale of Two Green Submariners
Before we dive into a detailed comparison, let's introduce each model individually, understanding their history and unique appeal.
Rolex Submariner 116610LV "Hulk": The Bold and Muscular Predecessor
Launched in 2010 as the successor to the 50th Anniversary Submariner 16610LV "Kermit," the Rolex Submariner 116610LV, affectionately nicknamed "Hulk," took the green Submariner concept to a whole new level. It wasn't just the bezel that was green this time; Rolex introduced a striking green "sunburst" dial, creating a monochromatic green masterpiece. The "Hulk" was part of Rolex's "Super Case" era, featuring broader lugs and crown guards, giving it a more substantial and muscular wrist presence – hence the nickname.
Key Features of the Rolex Hulk:
- Reference Number: 116610LV
- Production Years: 2010 - 2020
- Case: 40mm Oystersteel "Super Case" with broader lugs and crown guards.
- Bezel: Green Cerachrom (ceramic) unidirectional rotatable bezel with platinum-filled numerals and graduations.
- Dial: Green "sunburst" dial with applied Chromalight hour markers.
- Crystal: Scratch-resistant sapphire crystal with Cyclops lens over the date.
- Movement: Rolex Caliber 3135 - a robust and reliable in-house movement.
- Bracelet: Oyster bracelet with Glidelock extension system for easy adjustments.
- Water Resistance: 300 meters (1000 feet).
The Hulk was known for its bold and unapologetic green aesthetic. The sunburst dial played with light beautifully, shifting between shades of green depending on the angle. The "Super Case" added to its wrist presence, making it a statement piece. Despite its popularity, Rolex discontinued the Hulk in 2020, making it instantly collectible.
Rolex Submariner 126610LV "Starbucks" (Cermit): The Refined and Modern Successor
In 2020, Rolex unveiled the successor to the Hulk, the Rolex Submariner 126610LV. While some initially dubbed it "Cermit" due to its black dial and green bezel reminiscent of the original 50th Anniversary model, the nickname "Starbucks" quickly gained traction, perhaps due to the color combination and the popular coffee chain. The "Starbucks" represents a more refined and modern take on the green Submariner concept. It features a black dial, a green Cerachrom bezel, and a subtly redesigned case.
Key Features of the Rolex Starbucks:
- Reference Number: 126610LV
- Production Years: 2020 - Present
- Case: 41mm Oystersteel case, redesigned with slimmer lugs and crown guards compared to the "Super Case" era.
- Bezel: Green Cerachrom (ceramic) unidirectional rotatable bezel with platinum-filled numerals and graduations.
- Dial: Black dial with applied Chromalight hour markers.
- Crystal: Scratch-resistant sapphire crystal with Cyclops lens over the date.
- Movement: Rolex Caliber 3235 - a next-generation in-house movement with improved performance and power reserve.
- Bracelet: Oyster bracelet with Glidelock extension system, slightly wider to match the 41mm case.
- Water Resistance: 300 meters (1000 feet).
The Starbucks offers a more classic and versatile aesthetic compared to the Hulk. The black dial provides excellent contrast with the green bezel, making it easily readable in various lighting conditions. The updated 41mm case, while larger on paper, wears more comfortably on many wrists due to the refined proportions. Crucially, it houses the updated Caliber 3235 movement, offering significant improvements in performance and efficiency.
Head-to-Head: Rolex Hulk vs. Starbucks - The Ultimate Comparison
Now, let's delve into a detailed comparison across key aspects to understand the nuances between these two green giants.
Design and Aesthetics: Boldness vs. Refinement
This is where the most significant visual differences lie. The Hulk is undeniably bold and attention-grabbing. The monochromatic green, from dial to bezel, creates a powerful and unique look. The "sunburst" dial adds dynamism and visual interest. The "Super Case" contributes to its robust and sporty appearance.
The Starbucks, on the other hand, leans towards refinement and classic Submariner aesthetics. The black dial provides a timeless foundation, while the green bezel adds a touch of color and distinction. The redesigned case is more streamlined and elegant, offering a more versatile look that can transition seamlessly from casual to formal settings.
Verdict (Design): If you prefer a watch that makes a bold statement and stands out from the crowd, the Hulk is your champion. If you prioritize versatility, classic aesthetics with a modern twist, and a more understated elegance, the Starbucks takes the crown.
Movement and Performance: Caliber 3135 vs. Caliber 3235
Both the Hulk and Starbucks are powered by Rolex's in-house movements, renowned for their accuracy, reliability, and robustness. However, the Starbucks boasts a significant upgrade.
The Hulk is equipped with the Rolex Caliber 3135. This movement is a workhorse, having served Rolex faithfully for decades. It's known for its chronometer certification, Parachrom hairspring for shock resistance, and approximately 48 hours of power reserve.
The Starbucks features the newer Rolex Caliber 3235. This next-generation movement incorporates several advancements, including the Chronergy escapement for increased efficiency, a longer power reserve of approximately 70 hours, and further improvements in shock and magnetic field resistance. The Caliber 3235 represents a significant step forward in Rolex's movement technology.
Verdict (Movement): The Starbucks unequivocally wins in terms of movement technology and performance. The Caliber 3235 offers superior power reserve and efficiency, making it a more modern and technically advanced timepiece.
On the Wrist: Comfort and Wearability
Wrist comfort is subjective but important. The Hulk's "Super Case" and broader lugs can feel more substantial on the wrist. While the Oyster bracelet is comfortable, the overall wrist presence is undeniably bolder and heavier.
The Starbucks's redesigned 41mm case, with its slimmer lugs and refined proportions, offers improved comfort for a wider range of wrist sizes. While technically larger in diameter, it often feels more streamlined and balanced on the wrist compared to the Hulk.
Verdict (Wearability): The Starbucks generally offers better wearability and comfort for most wrist sizes due to its refined case design. However, those who prefer a more substantial and weighty feel on the wrist might still appreciate the Hulk.
Value and Investment Potential: Discontinuation vs. Modernity
Both the Hulk and Starbucks are highly desirable Rolex models with strong investment potential, but their dynamics differ.
The Hulk, being discontinued, has already seen significant appreciation in the secondary market. Its rarity and unique green-on-green aesthetic contribute to its collectibility. Prices for pre-owned Hulks are generally higher than MSRP and continue to rise.
The Starbucks, being a current production model, is still available (though often with waiting lists) at authorized dealers (ADs). While it might not have the immediate price premium of a discontinued model, its modern features, updated movement, and connection to the iconic green Submariner lineage make it a strong long-term investment. As production evolves and potential future iterations emerge, the Starbucks's position in the Rolex timeline will solidify its collectibility.
Verdict (Investment): Both are strong investments. The Hulk offers immediate scarcity and historical significance, potentially leading to faster appreciation in the short-term. The Starbucks offers long-term investment potential as a modern classic with ongoing production and technological advancements. Ultimately, market trends and collector preferences will influence future values.
Making the Choice: Which Green Submariner Reigns Supreme?
There's no single "better" watch between the Rolex Hulk and Starbucks. The choice depends entirely on your personal preferences, priorities, and what you seek in a luxury timepiece.
Who is the Rolex Hulk for?
- Collectors seeking a discontinued and historically significant green Submariner.
- Individuals who appreciate bold and unique designs, unafraid to make a statement.
- Those who love the monochromatic green aesthetic and the sunburst dial.
- Enthusiasts who prioritize the "Super Case" wrist presence.
Who is the Rolex Starbucks for?
- Those seeking a modern and technologically advanced green Submariner.
- Individuals who prefer a more versatile and classic aesthetic with a green bezel accent.
- Those who prioritize comfort and wearability on a wider range of wrists.
- Collectors who appreciate the latest Rolex innovations and movements.
Final Verdict: A Matter of Preference
The Rolex Hulk is a bold, statement piece, a collector's item with a unique and vibrant personality. It's a watch that demands attention and represents a specific era in Rolex design. Its discontinuation enhances its allure and investment appeal.
The Rolex Starbucks is a refined, modern classic, offering a more versatile and technologically advanced interpretation of the green Submariner. It blends classic aesthetics with contemporary engineering, providing a watch that is both timeless and cutting-edge. Its ongoing production ensures its continued relevance and desirability.
Ultimately, the choice between the Hulk and Starbucks is a personal one. Consider your style, your wrist size, your budget (both are premium watches), and your collecting goals. Both are exceptional Rolex Submariners, worthy of admiration and ownership. Perhaps the real "winner" is the fortunate collector who gets to enjoy either of these green marvels on their wrist.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Why are they nicknamed "Hulk" and "Starbucks"?
The "Hulk" nickname for the 116610LV is due to its full green color scheme and robust "Super Case," resembling the muscular Marvel superhero. "Starbucks" (or sometimes "Cermit 2.0") for the 126610LV stems from its green bezel and black dial combination, reminiscent of the Starbucks coffee chain's logo colors. "Cermit" is a blend of "Ceramic" and "Kermit" (the original green bezel Submariner), as the Starbucks is seen by some as a modern iteration of the Kermit concept.
- Which is more expensive?
In the pre-owned market, the Rolex Hulk generally commands a higher price than the Rolex Starbucks due to its discontinued status and established collectibility. However, market prices fluctuate, and availability can also influence pricing. At retail (if you could purchase at MSRP), the Starbucks would be the current production model price.
- Which is rarer?
The Rolex Hulk is arguably rarer in the sense that production has ceased. While Rolex produces the Starbucks, obtaining one at retail can still be challenging due to high demand and waiting lists. In terms of total production numbers over their respective lifespans, it's difficult to definitively say which is "rarer" without official Rolex figures.
- Which is a better investment?
Both are considered strong investments. The Hulk has already proven its appreciation potential due to discontinuation. The Starbucks, as a current production model with modern features, is also expected to appreciate over time, especially as it potentially becomes harder to acquire at retail and future production changes occur.
- Are they both discontinued?
No, the Rolex Hulk (116610LV) is discontinued and was replaced by the Starbucks. The Rolex Starbucks (126610LV) is currently in production.
- Where can I buy them?
The Rolex Starbucks can be purchased from authorized Rolex dealers (ADs), although waiting lists are common. The Rolex Hulk is only available on the pre-owned market through reputable watch dealers, online marketplaces specializing in luxury watches, and auction houses.
Authoritative References and Further Reading
- Rolex Official Submariner Page (Official Rolex Website)
- Hodinkee - Hands-On with the Rolex Submariner 126610LV "Starbucks" (Reputable Watch Publication)
- Fratello Watches - Rolex Submariner Hulk vs. Starbucks Comparison (Reputable Watch Blog)
- Rolex Submariner 116610LV Prices on Chrono24 (Watch Marketplace for Price Data)
- Rolex Submariner 126610LV Prices on Chrono24 (Watch Marketplace for Price Data)
Conclusion: Green with Envy – Choosing Your Rolex Submariner
The Rolex Hulk and Starbucks represent two distinct yet equally compelling chapters in the green Submariner saga. Whether you are drawn to the bold and unique presence of the Hulk or the refined and modern elegance of the Starbucks, both watches offer exceptional quality, iconic design, and the undeniable prestige of Rolex. Understanding their differences in design, movement, and market dynamics is crucial for making an informed decision. Ultimately, the best choice is the one that resonates most with your personal style and watch collecting aspirations. No matter which green Submariner you choose, you'll be wearing a piece of horological history and a symbol of enduring excellence.
