The Green Submariner: Two Generations, Two Philosophies
At Rolex, introducing colour to a professional watch is never a matter of chance.
In 2003, to mark the 50th anniversary of the Submariner, Rolex introduced a green bezel to its most iconic dive watch. The result was the reference 16610LV, a watch that would later become known simply as the "Kermit".
More than twenty years later, the green Submariner remains part of the Rolex catalogue through the reference 126610LV, often nicknamed the "Starbucks" by collectors.
With both references currently available at AV Meridiem, the comparison offers a fascinating insight into how Rolex evolved from the neo-vintage era to contemporary perfection.
1. The Last Classic Case vs The Modern Submariner
Beyond the green bezel, the most significant difference lies in the case architecture.
16610LV V-Serial
The Kermit retains the elegant proportions of the classic five-digit and transitional six-digit Submariner lineage.
Its 40 mm case features slender lugs, refined crown guards, balanced proportions and a noticeably lighter visual footprint on the wrist.
For many collectors, it represents the final expression of the traditional Rolex sports watch before the more substantial designs that followed.
126610LV
While officially measuring 41 mm, the modern Submariner benefits from a complete redesign. Rolex refined the lugs compared to the previous generation while increasing overall wrist presence.
The result is a watch that feels more substantial, yet surprisingly balanced.
Both are unmistakably Submariners. They simply speak different design languages.
2. Aluminium vs Cerachrom
The bezel alone is enough to divide collectors.
16610LV
The green aluminium insert remains one of the defining characteristics of the Kermit. Unlike ceramic, aluminium interacts with light in a constantly changing way. Depending on the environment, the bezel can appear vibrant green, olive green or almost metallic.
Its subtle imperfections and potential future ageing are part of the charm.
126610LV
The Cerachrom bezel represents Rolex's modern philosophy. Scratch-resistant, fade-resistant and virtually impervious to ageing, it offers a darker and deeper shade of green with exceptional precision and durability.
Where the Kermit evolves over time, the Starbucks is designed to remain unchanged.
3. The Maxi Dial Legacy
The V-Serial 16610LV carries the Maxi Dial that Rolex introduced on the late-production 16610 series — oversized hour markers and broader hands that dramatically improved legibility while preserving the classic Submariner case.
In many ways, the 16610LV introduced the visual language that would later define the entire modern Rolex professional range.
The 126610LV naturally continues this philosophy, incorporating the modern interpretation of the Maxi Dial that has become standard across the professional Rolex collection.
The connection between the two references is immediately visible.
4. Calibre 3135 vs Calibre 3235
Inside, the evolution is equally significant.
16610LV
Powered by the legendary calibre 3135, one of the most respected automatic movements ever produced by Rolex. Known for reliability, ease of servicing and long-term durability.
The 3135 remains a benchmark among collectors and a movement that independent watchmakers worldwide can service with confidence for decades to come.
126610LV
The modern reference introduces the calibre 3235. Featuring the Chronergy escapement and approximately 70 hours of power reserve, it represents Rolex's latest movement architecture. Technically superior. Unquestionably modern. Designed for the contemporary collector who wears their watch daily.
5. Collector's Notes
Choosing between these two references is not about performance. It is about horological sensibility.
The V-Serial 16610LV currently available at AV Meridiem represents one of the final production runs of the Kermit, combining the desirable engraved rehaut with the classic proportions of the pre-ceramic Submariner. It offers the warmth of aluminium, the charm of the traditional case and the personality that only a transitional Rolex can deliver.
The 126610LV represents the ultimate modern Submariner. Its Glidelock clasp, ceramic bezel, contemporary movement and remaining factory warranty make it one of the finest daily-wear sports watches available today.
Conclusion
The Kermit and the Starbucks share a green bezel. Everything else reflects two different moments in Rolex history.
One celebrates the final years of the neo-vintage era. The other embodies contemporary Rolex engineering.
Two shades of green. Two generations of Submariner history. Both currently available at AV Meridiem.