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

The Rolex Submariner "Kermit" and the Starbucks brand are connected by one iconic trait: a distinctive shade of green. Beyond that, they represent fundamentally different worlds of consumerism - one being a five-figure luxury investment piece prized for its rarity and engineering, and the other being an accessible daily experience built on convenience and global ubiquity. The Kermit stands for enduring exclusivity, while Starbucks represents an everyday lifestyle.

Here’s a detailed comparison to help you understand the unique appeal of each of these green-branded giants.

Rolex Submariner "Kermit" (Ref. 16610LV)

The Rolex "Kermit," reference 16610LV, was introduced in 2003 to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Submariner. It was notable for being the first Submariner to feature a green bezel, which at the time was made of aluminum. Now discontinued, its rarity and historical importance have turned it into a highly sought-after collector's item in the pre-owned market.

• What it is: A discontinued, special edition Rolex Submariner Date featuring a black "maxi" dial and a vibrant green aluminum bezel insert.
• Key features: 40mm case diameter, 904L stainless steel construction, 300 meters (1,000 feet) of water resistance, and a chronometer-certified automatic movement.
• Price: Approximately $20,000 - $30,000+ on the pre-owned market, depending on condition and accompanying documents.
• Materials/Construction: Forged from a block of corrosion-resistant 904L stainless steel. It features a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal and a durable Oyster bracelet.
• Sizing/Fit: The 40mm case is considered a classic size that fits a wide variety of wrists comfortably. The Oyster bracelet's Glidelock clasp allows for micro-adjustments for a perfect fit.
• Pros: A significant piece of Rolex history, holds its value extremely well and often appreciates, iconic and instantly recognizable design, superb build quality designed to last for generations.
• Cons: Extremely expensive and inaccessible to most buyers, only available on the volatile secondary market, requires specialized and costly servicing, high risk of encountering replicas.

This timepiece is for serious watch collectors, investors, and individuals who want a tangible symbol of achievement that has strong investment potential.

Shop this product: chrono24.com/rolex/ref-16610lv.htm

Starbucks Experience & Merchandise

Starbucks is the world's largest coffeehouse chain, offering a consistent and convenient experience defined by specialty coffee drinks, a welcoming "third place" environment between home and work, and a wide array of branded merchandise. Its mission is built on high-quality, ethically sourced coffee and creating a sense of community for its millions of daily customers.

• What it is: A global coffee brand offering specialty drinks, food items, and branded merchandise centered around a lifestyle of accessibility and community.
• Key features: Ethically sourced coffee beans, a global network of stores, a customer loyalty program, customizable drink options, and iconic merchandise featuring the green siren logo.
• Price: Most beverages range from $3 - $7. Merchandise like mugs and tumblers typically costs between $15 and $50.
• Materials/Construction: Food items use food-grade materials with an increasing focus on recyclable and compostable packaging. Merchandise is typically made from ceramic, stainless steel, or durable BPA-free plastic.
• Sizing/Fit: Drink sizes range from Tall (12 oz) to Trenta (30 oz). Mugs and tumblers come in various standard sizes (e.g., 12 oz, 16 oz, 20 oz).
• Pros: Highly accessible and convenient with locations nearly everywhere, affordable daily luxury, consistent product quality across locations, a strong focus on ethical sourcing and sustainability.
• Cons: Can become a costly daily habit, single-use cups contribute to environmental waste concerns, drink quality can sometimes be inconsistent between stores or baristas.

This brand is ideal for coffee lovers, students, professionals, and anyone seeking a reliable, convenient, and social coffee experience with occasional merchandise collecting.

Shop this product: starbucks.com/menu

Rolex Kermit vs. Starbucks Experience Comparison

Price & Value Proposition

There is no meaningful price overlap between these two. A single Rolex Kermit could cost the equivalent of purchasing two premium Starbucks coffees every day for over a decade. The value proposition is the key difference. The Rolex is a long-term asset, it's a piece of functional jewelry that is expected to retain or increase in value over time, serving as an investment.

Starbucks offers immediate, consumable value. Its worth is measured in the experience: a morning caffeine boost, a predictable work environment, or a quick snack. While its branded merchandise can have some collector value in niche circles, it is fundamentally a consumable product, not a financial asset.

Style & Brand Aesthetic

Both brands leverage their iconic green, but with entirely different goals. Rolex's green bezel signals exclusivity, rarity and a connection to the brand's sporting heritage. The Kermit's overall aesthetic is classic, functional, and luxurious - a statement of refined taste and achievement.

Starbucks's green siren logo embodies an approachable, modern, and community-focused lifestyle. The aesthetic is casual and inviting, designed to make customers feel comfortable and welcomed. It’s a symbol of reliable comfort and daily routine rather than elite status.

Shopping Experience & Accessibility

The path to ownership couldn't be more different. Purchasing a discontinued model like the Rolex Kermit is a deliberate and often lengthy process. It involves navigating the pre-owned market through trusted dealers or auction houses, requiring expertise, research, and a significant financial outlay. It’s an exercise in exclusivity.

Conversely, Starbucks thrives on accessibility. With over 30,000 locations worldwide, mobile app ordering, and drive-thrus, the experience is designed for maximum convenience and minimal friction. You can have a Starbucks product in your hand within minutes, from almost anywhere in the world.

Sustainability & Ethics

Both companies have sustainability initiatives, but their scale and focus differ. Starbucks has highly visible programs like its C.A.F.E. Practices for ethically sourcing coffee, along with corporate goals to reduce waste from single-use cups and transition to greener store operations. These efforts are a core part of their brand identity.

Rolex focuses more on responsible sourcing for its precious metals and gems and strives to lower the environmental impact of its manufacturing processes. Given the low-volume, high-value nature of its products, the "heirloom" quality of a watch that lasts generations is its own form of sustainability, but it isn’t a public-facing brand pillar in the same way it is for Starbucks.

Which One Should You Choose?

Though they are not direct competitors, your brand preference depends entirely on your goals, finances, and what you value.

Choose the Rolex Kermit if:

• You are making a significant long-term financial investment that you can also wear.
• You are a watch enthusiast who values history, mechanical craftsmanship, and brand heritage.
• You want an accessory that is a universally recognized symbol of luxury and success.
• You appreciate owning rare items that are difficult to acquire.

Choose the Starbucks experience if:

• You're looking for an affordable, reliable, and convenient daily treat.
• You value a consistent experience and a welcoming public space for work or socializing.
• You want to participate in a global coffee culture and enjoy seasonal beverages.
• You enjoy collecting branded merchandise that is both functional and stylish.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the "Kermit" and "Starbucks" Rolex watches?

The "Kermit" is the unofficial nickname for the Rolex Submariner reference 16610LV, made from 2003-2010, which has a green aluminum bezel and a black dial. The "Starbucks" is the nickname for the current reference 126610LV (introduced in 2020), which has a green ceramic bezel and a black dial in a slightly larger 41mm case.

What's the main difference between the Rolex Kermit and the Starbucks brand?

The Rolex Kermit is a rare, five-figure luxury watch that acts as a financial asset and status symbol. The Starbucks brand represents an accessible, everyday consumer experience focused on coffee, community, and convenience, with products costing just a few dollars.

Which one is a better investment?

The Rolex Kermit is unquestionably the better financial investment. Historical pricing data shows it has appreciated significantly since it was discontinued. While some rare Starbucks merchandise can fetch high prices among collectors, it does not compare to the asset class of a luxury watch.

How much does a Rolex Kermit cost?

On the pre-owned market, a genuine Rolex Kermit (16610LV) typically costs between $20,000 and $30,000 or more, though prices can fluctuate based on condition, year, and whether it includes the original box and papers.

Is the Rolex Kermit still made?

No, the original Rolex Kermit reference 16610LV was discontinued in 2010. Its successor, with a green dial and green ceramic bezel, was nicknamed the "Hulk." The current model with traits similar to the Kermit (green bezel, black dial) is the 41mm reference 126610LV, nicknamed the "Starbucks."

Why do people compare Rolex and Starbucks?

The comical comparison stems almost entirely from branding. Specific Rolex Submariner models with green bezels have been affectionately nicknamed after other companies with iconic green branding, including the "Starbucks" nickname for the newest version.

Can you buy a Rolex at a Starbucks?

No, you absolutely cannot. Rolex watches are sold exclusively through a highly controlled network of authorized dealers and trusted second-hand sellers. Starbucks sells coffee, food, and its own branded merchandise.

What do the two brands have in common besides the color green?

Beyond their famous green hue, both Rolex and Starbucks are masters of branding. They both have curated incredibly strong, globally recognized brand identities that command loyalty and have become integral parts of the cultures they serve - one in the world of high luxury, the other in the world of daily routines.