When it comes to Swiss watches, Rolex stands at the pinnacle, renowned for its craftsmanship and iconic designs. The Submariner, perhaps the brand’s most famous model, epitomizes this excellence. Known for its unmatched blend of rugged durability and classic aesthetics, the Submariner’s green bezel versions have earned a unique place in the hearts of collectors. Today, we dive into a comparison between two of the most beloved green-bezel variants: the Kermit 16610LV and the Starbucks 126610LV. While these two watches may appear similar at first glance, the differences – shaped by two decades of innovation – are significant. 
Evolution, Not Revolution: Rolex’s Timeless Approach
One of the key reasons for Rolex’s success lies in its ability to evolve, not revolutionize, its designs. The brand focuses on incremental improvements – better materials, refined mechanisms, and enhanced durability – while preserving the core design identity that defines each model. This philosophy is evident when comparing the clone Rolex Submariner Kermit 16610LV, launched in 2003, with the more recent Starbucks 126610LV, introduced in 2020. Despite the apparent similarities, these two watches represent distinct phases in Rolex’s evolution. 
The Kermit 16610LV: The First Green Submariner
The Kermit 16610LV was introduced in 2003 to celebrate the Submariner’s 50th anniversary. It was a milestone for Rolex, as it marked the first time the Submariner was offered with a green bezel. Though a special edition, the Kermit wasn’t a limited release, and it retained many of the design elements seen in previous Submariner models. The 16610LV featured a 40mm stainless steel case, a 300-meter water resistance, and the reliable Caliber 3135 movement. The standout feature was the green aluminum bezel, complemented by a black dial. Additionally, Rolex introduced the “Maxi Dial,” which featured larger hour markers and thicker hands – an improvement that became standard across future Submariner models. 
Over its production run from 2003 to 2010, the Kermit saw several subtle variations, including different bezel inserts and dial configurations, though these differences are mostly of interest to collectors. The Kermit’s design, while fresh for its time, retained the nostalgic charm of earlier Submariner models.
The Starbucks 126610LV: A Modern Green Submariner
Fast forward to 2020, and Rolex introduced the Starbucks 126610LV, a direct successor to the Kermit in terms of color scheme but with a more refined, modern design. This new generation Submariner retained the green bezel but switched to a ceramic insert, known as Cerachrom, offering better durability and scratch resistance compared to the Kermit’s aluminum bezel. The Starbucks also introduced a new movement – the Caliber 3235 – offering a longer power reserve (70 hours vs. the Kermit’s 48 hours) and improved chronometric performance.
Design-wise, the 126610LV saw the departure of the “Maxi Case” and the return to a more traditional fake Rolex Submariner shape, though it’s still noticeably bulkier than the Kermit. This modern iteration also features a broader bracelet and a refined clasp with a Glidelock system, making it more practical and comfortable for everyday wear.
Comparing the Aesthetics: A Familiar Yet Evolved Look
At first glance, both the Kermit 16610LV and Starbucks 126610LV may appear nearly identical. Both feature a green bezel and a black dial – hallmarks of the Submariner’s distinctive design language. However, subtle differences become more apparent with closer inspection.
The Kermit’s aluminum bezel has a metallic sheen and a more vivid green, while the Starbucks’s ceramic bezel is glossier and uniform in color. This shift in material reflects Rolex’s commitment to enhancing the durability and overall feel of its watches. When rotating the bezel, the Kermit feels looser, with a slightly less precise click action, likely due to the age of the model. In contrast, the Starbucks’s ceramic bezel offers a smoother, more robust experience. 
Case and Proportions: From Neo-Vintage to Modern Robustness
While both models share the same fundamental design – a 40mm case with a 300-meter water resistance – there are noticeable differences in their proportions. The Kermit has a more slender, vintage-inspired profile with thinner lugs and a domed caseback. The case design is reminiscent of earlier Submariners, combining modern elements like a sapphire crystal with classic details such as pointed crown guards.
The Starbucks, on the other hand, feels more substantial and modern. Though the increase in size is minimal (just 0.5mm in diameter), the broader bracelet and heavier clasp give the watch a more robust, bulkier feel. The case itself is slightly squarer, and the crown guards are larger and more rounded than those on the Kermit. This evolution reflects Rolex’s intention to create a more modern, durable dive watch without deviating too far from the core Rolex Submariner aesthetic.
The Bezel: Aluminum vs. Ceramic
The most significant visual difference between the two models lies in their bezels. The Kermit’s aluminum bezel, while charming with its metallic sheen, doesn’t offer the same level of durability as the Starbucks’s ceramic bezel. The ceramic insert on the Starbucks features a refined PVD platinum coating and delivers a more uniform color. Beyond the material, the feel of the bezel also differs: the Kermit’s bezel is looser, while the Starbucks offers a firmer, more precise rotation – thanks to the upgrade to ceramic.
Dials: A Familiar Design with Minor Evolutions
Both models share the same basic dial design, with applied white gold markers, oversized hands, and a date window at 3 o’clock. However, the luminescent materials differ: the Kermit features green Super-LumiNova, while the Starbucks uses blue-emitting Chromalight, which lasts longer and provides better legibility in low-light conditions. Despite these differences, the overall feel of the dial is quite similar, with both models offering excellent legibility and a luxurious look.
Movement: Caliber 3135 vs. Caliber 3235
Under the hood, the Kermit is powered by the tried-and-tested Caliber 3135 movement, known for its reliability and precision. However, the Caliber 3235 in the Starbucks represents a significant leap forward. With its Chronergy escapement and improved architecture, the 3235 offers better energy efficiency, a longer power reserve, and enhanced chronometric performance. This movement upgrade is one of the key improvements in the Starbucks, making it a more precise and efficient timekeeping machine.
Bracelets and Clasps: Evolution of Comfort and Practicality
The Kermit 16610LV is equipped with a classic Oyster bracelet featuring a folded steel clasp and a tool-adjustable length. While the bracelet is comfortable and functional, the clasp feels less refined compared to modern standards. The Starbucks 126610LV, however, features the robust Oysterlock clasp with a Glidelock extension, offering tool-free adjustments for added comfort. The bracelet is also wider and more substantial, contributing to the overall feel of a more modern, durable watch.
On the Wrist: Subtle Differences in Comfort and Wearability
Despite the slight differences in size and weight, both the Kermit and Starbucks are comfortable to wear. The 126610LV, though heavier, benefits from better weight distribution, with a more substantial clasp and a wider bracelet. This makes it feel solid yet comfortable on the wrist. The Kermit, being lighter, has a slightly more vintage feel but still offers a great fit, especially for those who prefer the thinner, more compact design of earlier Submariners. 
The Charm of the Old vs. the Precision of the New
While both the Kermit 16610LV and Starbucks 126610LV are excellent examples of replica Rolex’s craftsmanship, they offer different experiences. The Kermit, with its vintage charm, aluminum bezel, and slightly more compact case, appeals to those who appreciate the subtleties of a neo-vintage piece. On the other hand, the Starbucks, with its modern updates – ceramic bezel, improved movement, and refined bracelet – delivers a more precise and durable watch.
The choice between these two models is a matter of personal preference. The Kermit exudes a nostalgic charm, while the Starbucks represents the pinnacle of modern watchmaking. Both are exceptional in their own right, but they cater to different tastes, making each an iconic piece in the Rolex Submariner legacy.