Rolex Hulk vs. Starbucks: Here's how they compare [2026]

The Rolex Submariner "Hulk" (Ref. 116610LV) and "Starbucks" (Ref. 126610LV) are two of the most popular modern dive watches, but their core difference lies in their dial and case design. The older, discontinued "Hulk" features a bold green sunburst dial with a matching green ceramic bezel, creating a striking monochrome statement. Its successor, the "Starbucks," pairs the same green bezel with a classic and versatile black dial, offering a more contemporary and subdued take on the green Submariner legacy.

Here's everything you need to know to decide which iconic green Rolex Submariner is the right one for your collection.

Rolex Submariner "Hulk" 116610LV

Launched in 2010 and discontinued in 2020, the Rolex "Hulk" quickly earned its nickname for its large "Maxi" case and all-green color profile. It was the first Submariner to feature both a green dial and a green Cerachrom (ceramic) bezel. Because it is no longer in production, the 116610LV has become a modern classic and a highly sought-after collector's piece on the pre-owned market.

• What it is: A discontinued stainless steel Rolex Submariner Date with a 40mm case, a green sunburst dial, and a matching green Cerachrom bezel.
• Key features: Reference 116610LV, 40mm Oystersteel "Maxi" case with thick lugs, green sunburst dial that shifts color intensity in the light, Calibre 3135 movement with a 48-hour power reserve, Oyster bracelet with Glidelock extension system.
• Price: As a discontinued model, it's only available pre-owned, with prices typically ranging from $18,000 - $25,000+ USD depending on condition.
• Sizing/Fit: The 40mm "Maxi" case features broad, muscular lugs, giving it a chunkier and more substantial wrist presence than its official dimensions suggest. It feels robust and powerful on the wrist.
• Pros: Excellent investment potential as a discontinued model. Unique and vibrant all-green aesthetic. The sunburst dial provides stunning visual character. Iconic status among Rolex collectors.
• Cons: High pre-owned market price over its original retail cost. Older Calibre 3135 has a shorter 48-hour power reserve. The all-green look is less versatile for daily wear than its successor.

This watch is for the collector who wants a bold statement piece with proven investment value and a truly unique colorway that stands out.

Shop this product: Available on pre-owned markets like Bob's Watches or Chrono24.

Rolex Submariner "Starbucks" 126610LV

Released in 2020 as the successor to the "Hulk," the Rolex "Starbucks" (also called the new "Kermit") modernizes the green Submariner formula. By pairing the vibrant green Cerachrom bezel with a timeless black dial, this model offers a more versatile and refined look. It also benefits from Rolex's latest technical updates, including a new movement and a subtly redesigned case, making it the perfect blend of classic and contemporary.

• What it is: The current-production stainless steel Rolex Submariner Date with a 41mm case, a black dial, and a green Cerachrom bezel.
• Key features: Reference 126610LV, 41mm redesigned Oystersteel case with slimmer lugs, classic black dial, latest-generation Calibre 3235 movement with a 70-hour power reserve, Oyster bracelet with Glidelock extension system.
• Price: Official retail is $10,800 USD, though secondary market prices are significantly higher due to immense demand, often starting around $16,000 - $20,000+ USD.
• Sizing/Fit: While the case is officially 1mm larger at 41mm, its lugs are thinner and more tapered than the Hulk's. This refined profile provides a more balanced and elegant fit on the wrist that many find wears more comfortably than its predecessor's blockier case.
• Pros: A modern and superior movement with a 70-hour power reserve. More versatile design thanks to the classic black dial. Elegant case proportions with slimmer lugs. Available new from authorized dealers (though waitlists are long).
• Cons: Can be exceptionally difficult to acquire at retailers. Lacks the unique single-color appeal of the Hulk. Being a current production model, its long-term rarity is not yet established.

This is the ideal choice for someone who loves the splash of green but wants a more traditional, versatile Rolex for daily wear, powered by the best of modern watchmaking technology.

Shop this product: rolex.com/watches/submariner/m126610lv-0002

Rolex Hulk vs. Starbucks: A Head-to-Head Look

Dial & Bezel: The Color Story

This is the most significant difference between the two watches. The Rolex Hulk is famous for its "green-on-green" combination. Its dynamic sunburst dial plays with light, shifting from a bright, vibrant green in the sun to a deep forest green in lower light, giving it immense character. It's a bold and polarizing look that cemented its cult status.

The Rolex Starbucks takes a more restrained and classic approach. Pairing the green ceramic bezel with a deep black dial grounds the watch in Submariner tradition. This combination creates a striking contrast that is eye-catching without being overpowering, making it far more versatile for different occasions and outfits.

Case & Dimensions

On paper, the Hulk has a 40mm case and the Starbucks has a 41mm case, but the reality of how they wear is completely different. The Hulk's 40mm "Maxi" case features thick, wide lugs that give it a blocky, substantial, and more aggressive presence on the wrist. Many enthusiasts call this the "super case" era.

Conversely, the 41mm Starbucks case was fully redesigned with slimmer, more tapered lugs and a slightly wider bracelet. This new geometry makes the watch feel more sculpted and less top-heavy, giving it a well-proportioned and arguably more elegant character that wears very similarly to its predecessor, despite its larger diameter. The choice between them often comes down to preferring a "chunky" fit or a more "refined" one.

Movement & Performance

The Rolex "Starbucks" has a clear technical advantage. It is equipped with the new-generation Calibre 3235, which boasts an impressive 70-hour power reserve. This means you can take it off on Friday afternoon and it will still be running on Monday morning. The retired "Hulk" runs on the Calibre 3135, a legendary workhorse movement for Rolex, but its power reserve is a more modest 48 hours. For daily practicality, the extended power reserve in the Starbucks is a noticeable improvement.

Price & Investment Value

Both watches are fantastic at holding - and appreciating - in value. The Hulk's status as a discontinued model with a unique look has made it a darling of the secondary market, with prices consistently commanding a high premium over its final retail price. It's a proven blue-chip collectible.

The Rolex Starbucks combines the seemingly infinite demand for steel Submariners with the desirability of the green bezel. While it is still in production, the extreme scarcity at authorized dealers has sent its secondary market price soaring well above retail. It represents a more direct path to owning a sought-after modern reference, though the Hulk currently has the edge as the rarer, out-of-production piece.

Which One Should You Choose?

Both are exceptional representations of the iconic green Submariner, but they cater to slightly different tastes and priorities.

Choose the Rolex "Hulk" if:

• You want a certified modern classic that is no longer in production.
• Character and boldness are more important to you than versatility.
• You admire the unique qualities of the all-green sunburst dial.
• You view the watch primarily as a collector's item and long-term investment.

Choose the Rolex "Starbucks" if:

• You prefer a more adaptable watch you can wear every day, for any occasion.
• A longer 70-hour power reserve is a practical benefit you will use.
• You find the updated, slimmer case proportions more comfortable and elegant.
• You want the latest and greatest technology offered in the Submariner line.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main difference between the Rolex Hulk and Starbucks?

The primary aesthetic difference is the dial color. The "Hulk" (116610LV) has a green sunburst dial to match its green bezel. The "Starbucks" (126610LV) has a classic black dial with a green bezel. They also have different case sizes (40mm vs 41mm) and internal movements.

Is the Rolex Hulk discontinued?

Yes, the Rolex Submariner 116610LV "Hulk" was officially discontinued in 2020 after a 10-year production run, making it a highly desirable piece on the pre-owned market.

Why are these watches called "Hulk" and "Starbucks"?

These are fan-created nicknames. The "Hulk" got its name from its all-green appearance and strong, muscular "Maxi" case, referencing the comic book character. The "Starbucks" name comes from its color scheme of green and black, resembling the logo of the global coffee chain.

Is the Rolex Starbucks the new Kermit?

The "Starbucks" is considered the spiritual successor to the original Rolex "Kermit" (Ref. 16610LV), which was the first Submariner to have a green bezel paired with a black dial. Collectors often refer to the new 126610LV as either the "Starbucks" or the "Cermit," combining "ceramic" and "Kermit."

Does the 41mm Starbucks wear a lot bigger than the 40mm Hulk?

No, surprisingly it doesn't. Although it is 1mm wider in diameter, the case on the Starbucks has been redesigned with slimmer, more tapered lugs. Many people find that this sleek redesign makes it wear more comfortably and elegantly than the blockier, chunkier case of the Hulk.

Which Rolex is a better investment?

Both have shown outstanding value retention. Historically, discontinued models like the Hulk tend to have a higher ceiling as true collector's items. However, the Starbucks is one of the most in-demand watches in the world right now, making its value extremely strong as well. The Hulk is likely the "safer" bet as a long-term appreciating asset due to its finite supply.

What are the real reference numbers for the Hulk and Starbucks?

The Rolex "Hulk" is reference 116610LV. The Rolex "Starbucks" is reference 126610LV.

What does "LV" stand for on a Rolex Submariner?

In Rolex reference numbers, "LV" stands for "Lunette Verte," which is French for "Green Bezel." It signifies that the watch is a stainless steel Submariner with a green bezel insert.