Rolex Kermit vs. Sprite: Here's how they compare

The Rolex Submariner “Kermit” and the GMT-Master II “Sprite” both feature iconic green Rolex bezels, but they are fundamentally different watches built for entirely different purposes. The Kermit is Rolex's benchmark dive watch designed for underwater exploration, while the Sprite is a GMT pilot’s watch designed to track multiple time zones, uniquely featuring a left-handed crown configuration.

Here's everything you need to know about these two fan-favorite green Rolex models to decide which is the right one for you.

Rolex Submariner Date “Kermit”

The Rolex Submariner "Kermit" refers to the Submariner Date model with a green bezel and black dial. The original Kermit (ref. 16610LV) debuted in 2003 with an aluminum bezel to celebrate the Submariner's 50th anniversary. Its modern successor (ref. 126610LV) upgrades this design with a vibrant green Cerachrom (ceramic) bezel, giving it stunning color, scratch resistance, and the unmistakable look of the world’s most recognizable luxury dive watch.

• What it is: A professional-grade diver's watch from Rolex's iconic Submariner line, featuring time and date functions with a signature green unidirectional rotating bezel.
• Key features: Modern reference 126610LV, 41mm Oystersteel case, Calibre 3235 movement with a 70-hour power reserve, Triplock winding crown ensuring water resistance up to 300 meters (1,000 feet).
• Price: Extremely difficult to purchase at retail. Secondary market prices typically range from $15,000 to over $20,000 depending on the specific reference and condition.
• Materials/Construction: Built from Oystersteel (a highly corrosion-resistant 904L steel alloy), with a scratchproof green Cerachrom bezel and a sapphire crystal over the dial.
• Sizing/Fit: The modern 41mm case wears comfortably on most wrists. The Oyster bracelet includes the Glidelock extension system, allowing for micro-adjustments to find the perfect fit.
• Pros: Quintessential Rolex design, legendary brand heritage, versatile style for both casual and formal wear, exceptional long-term value retention.
• Cons: Virtually nonexistent availability at authorized dealers, commands a significant premium on the secondary market.

The Kermit is the perfect choice for anyone seeking the definitive luxury sports watch, blending iconic history with a bold, modern colorway.

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

Rolex GMT-Master II “Sprite”

Introduced in 2022, the Rolex “Sprite” (ref. 126720VTNR) rocked the watch world with its unconventional design. It features Rolex's first-ever green and black ceramic GMT bezel paired with a surprising twist: a left-hand, or "destro," configuration, with the winding crown and date window positioned at 9 o'clock. This design nod makes it instantly recognizable and serves either left-handed collectors or those who prefer to wear their watch on the right wrist.

• What it is: A dual-time zone pilot's watch designed for left-handed wear or novelty, known for its distinctive green and black bezel and destro crown layout.
• Key features: Reference 126720VTNR, 40mm Oystersteel case, Calibre 3285 movement with a GMT complication to track a second time zone, waterproof to 100 meters (330 feet).
• Price: Like the Kermit, it trades well above its retail price. Secondary market values generally fall between $20,000 and $25,000, with high demand due to its unique features.
• Materials/Construction: Oystersteel case with a bi-color, bidirectional green and black Cerachrom bezel. Offered on both the sporty Oyster bracelet and the dressier Jubilee bracelet.
• Sizing/Fit: The 40mm case size is very versatile. Its left-side crown offers a unique wearing experience, avoiding the crown digging into the wrist for many right-hand wearers, even on the left arm.
• Pros: Groundbreaking and unique design, useful GMT functionality for travelers, a true conversation starter, exceptional collector interest due to its novelty.
• Cons: Left-hand configuration can feel strange to long-time watch wearers, availability is even scarcer than standard models.

This watch is for the enthusiast who values unique design and technical function, offering a Rolex that courageously deviates from the norm.

Shop this product: rolex.com/watches/gmt-master-ii/m126720vtnr-0001

Rolex Kermit vs. Sprite Comparison

Functionality: Diver vs. GMT

The biggest difference lies in their intended purposes. The Kermit is a true diver's tool. Its unidirectional bezel is a safety feature that only rotates counter-clockwise to ensure a diver can't accidentally extend their dive time. It is also water-resistant to 300 meters, making it suitable for professional scuba diving.

The Sprite, on the other hand, is a pilot's high-tech tool chest. Its bidirectional bezel, marked for 24 hours, works with the extra GMT hand to track a second time zone. Its water resistance of 100 meters is perfect for swimming and surface water activities but not for deep-sea diving. The choice here is simple: world travel or underwater exploration.

Design and Wearability

The Kermit follows Rolex's time-tested, conventional luxury sports watch design with a right-side crown. It's a classic format that feels familiar and balanced. Its 41mm case has a substantial but well-proportioned presence on the wrist that works for nearly everyone.

The Sprite’s design is purposefully disruptive. The left-hand crown and date window at 9 o'clock make it one of Rolex's most distinctive modern watches. While intended for lefties, many right-handers enjoy it for its comfort (no crown digging into the wrist) and standout appearance. Aesthetically, the Submariner's solid green bezel offers a bold splash of monotonic color, while the Sprite’s split green-and-black bezel provides a dual-tone "day/night" look inherent to the GMT line.

Price & Collectibility

Both watches are seen as strong investments that hold their value exceptionally well and regularly trade for double their retail prices on the open market. The Kermit, in both its historic and modern forms, is a blue-chip choice for collectors, it represents a key part of the Submariner lineage. Appreciation is steady and reliable.

The Sprite, being both new and highly unusual, attracted incredible hype upon release and continues to be one of the most sought-after stainless steel models. Its unique left-hand configuration gives it a novelty factor that may lead to especially strong historic value over the long term. Both are excellent choices, with the Sprite being slightly more speculative and headline-grabbing.

Which One Should You Choose?

Both models are fantastic timepieces, but they cater to very different tastes and needs.

Choose the Kermit if:

• You want the quintessential luxury dive watch with a history celebrated by Rolex.
• You prefer the classic, right-hand wearability that defines 99% of watches.
• You love a bold, single-color bezel and the clean, functional aesthetic of the Submariner.
• You value deep history and iconic status over novel design features.

Choose the Sprite if:

• You are a frequent traveler who would actually utilize the GMT function to track a second time zone.
• You're left-handed, wear your watch on your right wrist, or simply love the unique look.
• You want a watch that is an immediate conversation starter due to its unconventional design.
• You appreciate the modern, dynamic look of a two-tone bezel on a technically advanced pilot's watch.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main difference between the Rolex Kermit and Sprite?

The two main differences are function and design. The Kermit is a classic right-handed dive watch (time/date, 300m water resistance), while the Sprite is a left-handed GMT watch (dual time zones, 100m water resistance).

Is the Rolex Sprite only for left-handed people?

No. While designed with lefties in mind, many right-handed individuals buy it. Some wear it on their right wrist as intended, while others wear it on their left wrist simply for the quirky look and added comfort of not having the crown touch their hand.

Which is a better investment, the Kermit or the Sprite?

Both are considered excellent investments in the watch world and trade far above retail. The Sprite generated massive hype upon release due to its unique qualities, while the Kermit offers steady, long-term appreciation as a pillar of the Submariner collection. Your choice should come down to personal preference rather than speculation.

What is the nickname "Kermit" from?

The Rolex Kermit earned its nickname from its bright green bezel and black dial, which reminded enthusiasts of Kermit the Frog from The Muppets.

Does the Rolex Sprite come with different bracelets?

Yes, the Sprite is available from Rolex on either the satin-and-polished three-link Oyster bracelet or the more intricate and elegant five-link Jubilee bracelet.

Can you swim with the Rolex Sprite?

Absolutely. With a water resistance rating of 100 meters (330 feet), the Sprite is more than capable of handling swimming, showering, and other surface-level water activities.

Why are these watches so hard to buy?

Models like the Kermit and Sprite are part of Rolex's "Professional" stainless steel sports watch collection. The global demand for these watches massively exceeds the supply produced by Rolex, creating long waiting lists at authorized dealers and a thriving secondary market where they sell for a significant premium.

Are the cases the same size?

No, they are slightly different. The modern Rolex Kermit (ref. 126610LV) has a 41mm case, whereas the Rolex Sprite (ref. 126720VTNR) features a 40mm case.