Rolex Submariner Green Models Evolution

Rolex Submariner Starbucks and Kermit Watches with Rolex Box

Initially met with skepticism, the green Rolex Submariner has been among the most popular models of the iconic tool watch. Known for being conservative in its releases, it stood as an example of Rolex bringing something a little bit quirky and unexpected to the table.

Previously, there were two green Rolex Submariners for fans to choose from: the inaugural green Sub, the Kermit; and its successor, the Hulk. As we entered the new decade, Rolex released four new models of the Rolex Submariner — one of which revives the green bezel, black dial combination.

 

Let’s take a look at all three Rolex Submariners in green. What makes them the same, yet decidedly different?

 

Two versions of the Rolex Submariner "Kermit" 50th Anniversary Mens Watch 16610LV
Two versions of the Rolex Submariner “Kermit” 50th Anniversary Mens Watch 16610LV

ROLEX KERMIT (2003): The Inaugural Green Sub

The very first green Rolex Submariner was released in Baselworld 2003 to celebrate the Submariner’s 50th anniversary. Rolex made small but significant tweaks to the classic steel Submariner to create this model – the most defining feature being its green aluminum bezel.

Many Rolex brand faithful were taken aback by its release, considering it too outlandish for the classic tool watch design of the Submariner. Eventually though, it would gather its own cult following and was even nicknamed the “Kermit”, after the famous Muppets character.

In its years of production, the Kermit had several variations, among them the Flat 4 numeral and varying shades of green on the bezel, some even almost olive green. The Kermit also introduced the “Maxi” dial to the Rolex sport line with its larger hour markers and hands.

Just as the watch community was warming up to the idea of a green Submariner, it was discontinued and replaced with the “Hulk”.

 


 

Rolex Submariner Hulk 116610LV with Rolex Submariner 41 Kermit 126610LV
Rolex Submariner Hulk 116610LV with Rolex Submariner 41 Kermit 126610LV

ROLEX HULK (2010): Super Case and Maxi Dial

While the Kermit introduced the green bezel to the Submariner line, the Hulk upped the ante with a matching green dial. First making an appearance in 2010, the Hulk’s green color is also more prominent.

It’s easy to see why the Hulk was named such by Rolex fans. It focused primarily on making the classic Sub bolder.

It featured a Super Case with broader lugs, a larger crown guard and bezel and an overall beefier appearance, without changing the dimensions. It also replaced the aluminum bezel with Cerachrom ceramic, whose color is more of a deep, saturated, forest green hue. The dial is a rich green sunburst pattern, which catches light beautifully.

 


 

Rolex Submariner 41 Kermit Green Bezel Mens Watch 126610LV
Rolex Submariner 41 Kermit Green Bezel Mens Watch 126610LV

ROLEX KERMIT II (2020): Refined and Modern

For the 2020 edition (126610LV), the first thing that will be noticed is the return of the green bezel and black dial combination first seen in the 2003 Kermit. However, it’s more than just the re-edition of the Kermit – it has a host of updates found in the new stable of Submariners.

Where the 2010s saw the introduction of bolder and heftier Rolex Submariners, the 2020 editions are geared towards more refined, slimmer, vintage-inspired designs – even with its increased 41mm case size.

With a slightly thinner case, the new design is more in line with the classic Submariner models of the 60s and 70s, than the decidedly modern Submariners of the 2010s.

 

Rolex Submariner Hulk 116610LV with Rolex Submariner 41 Kermit 126610LV
Rolex Submariner Hulk 116610LV with Rolex Submariner 41 Kermit 126610LV

Moreover, the green bezel takes on a more serious green tone for the 2020 Submariner. While the original Kermit took on a bright, almost Kelly green tone, the new Kermit has a deeper color and a more solid presence, especially when viewed from above.

Lastly, the new Kermit runs on the new generation Caliber 3235 movement, replacing the decades-old Caliber 3135, and offering a robust 70-hour power reserve.

 


 

Which model did you like best? They are available at SwissWatchExpo, but are in high demand. Don’t miss your chance to get your very own green Rolex Submariner.

 

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SEE MORE OF THE WATCHES IN OUR VIDEO:

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