Scottie Scheffler’s recent victory at the 2025 British Open was a defining moment in his young career, further cementing his place as one of the most impressive golfers of his generation. With multiple major titles, including last year's Masters, Scheffler now holds the coveted position of World No. 1, a title that many thought would be fiercely contested for years to come. At just 29 years old, Scheffler has already secured a legacy within the sport, positioning himself alongside golf’s greats.
However, what caught the attention of more than just golf enthusiasts was the Rolex Submariner he wore on his wrist. Known for his preference for the brand’s green models, Scheffler’s choice sparked an ongoing debate that has been simmering in the watch world for nearly two decades. Rolex, the undisputed titan in luxury timepieces, has released several iterations of its green bezel Submariner over the years, with each version sparking passionate discussions among collectors and fans alike. Scheffler’s green Rolex, a Submariner Date Ref. 126610LV (also known as the "Starbucks" or "Cermit"), only reignited this debate, adding fuel to the fire that began with the release of the original green bezel Submariner in 2003.
The story of Rolex’s green Submariner begins with the release of the Ref. 16610LV, also known as “The Kermit.” This model was launched to mark the 50th anniversary of the Submariner, and it featured a distinct green bezel paired with a black dial. This was a significant departure from the more traditional designs of the Submariner lineup, and it immediately captured the attention of collectors. In fact, the Kermit was the first-ever Submariner to feature a green bezel, a move that was considered bold for the iconic brand. It signified a departure from the usual black-and-steel aesthetic that defined Rolex's Submariner line. While the Kermit was popular, its production run was relatively short, and it was replaced by the Ref. 116610LV, which introduced a bolder, all-green design and became known as “The Hulk.”
The Hulk, with its striking green dial and bezel, became an instant classic. Rolex had not only embraced the color green but had fully committed to it, with the dial, bezel, and even the hour markers all taking on varying shades of green. It was a watch that made a statement, and for many, it was the definitive green Submariner. But like all Rolex models, it was not without its detractors. Some felt that the all-green design was too loud, too flashy for the understated elegance that many expect from Rolex. Regardless, the Hulk became a favorite among collectors and remained in production until 2020, when it was discontinued, leading to a sense of both excitement and sadness in the watch community.
With the departure of the Hulk, many wondered whether Rolex would continue producing green bezel Submariners or if the company would turn its attention to other colors. The answer came in the form of the Submariner Date Ref. 126610LV, launched in 2020. This new iteration featured a green bezel but paired it with a black dial, a more restrained design compared to the Hulk. This new model was quickly dubbed the “Starbucks” by enthusiasts due to its green-and-black color scheme, which resembled the logo of the famous coffee chain. Others referred to it as the “Cermit,” combining the original green color with the “Kermit” nickname for the 16610LV.
The release of the Starbucks/Cermit model marked a return to the more classic green Submariner design. Many collectors viewed this as a return to the roots of the Submariner, with its black dial and green bezel evoking the original Kermit’s aesthetics while offering a more refined and balanced look. The new 41mm case size, which was slightly larger than previous models, also added a modern touch. The updated Calibre 3235 movement, with its improved power reserve and efficiency, made the watch even more appealing. However, even with these improvements, the debate over which green Submariner was the best persisted.
Rolex, a company renowned for its precision and attention to detail, had introduced subtle changes to the 126610LV in 2023. These changes, though minor, were enough to stir up further debate among collectors. The green bezel, which had initially been a darker hue, was subtly adjusted to a lighter, yellowish tone. This change, known as the Mk2 version, was closer to the original Kermit’s green color. While the change was subtle, it was significant to those who closely followed Rolex’s every move. The updated version, with its slightly warmer green tone, became yet another point of contention among enthusiasts.
Scottie Scheffler, for his part, has been seen wearing both the Hulk and the Starbucks/Cermit models during his major victories. In April, he wore the Hulk when he won the Masters, and in July, he sported the Starbucks/Cermit when he claimed the Claret Jug at the British Open. These two different green Submariners have become synonymous with his success, and his choice of wristwear has added another layer to the ongoing debate about which green Submariner is the best.
While Scheffler may not have intentionally contributed to this debate, his choice of watches has further solidified the green Submariner as a symbol of success and prestige in the world of golf. Rolex, too, has contributed to this ongoing conversation by producing multiple versions of the green Submariner, each with slight variations that keep collectors engaged. For many, it is not just about the watch itself but the statement it makes—a statement about taste, style, and perhaps even personal achievement.
The question of which green Submariner is the best is ultimately subjective. There is no clear winner in this debate, as it comes down to personal preference. Some collectors may prefer the bold, all-green design of the Hulk, while others might lean toward the more classic look of the Kermit or the Starbucks/Cermit with its green bezel and black dial. Each version has its unique charm, and each represents a different era in Rolex’s exploration of the green Submariner.
What is clear, however, is that the green Submariner has become a cultural phenomenon. The debate surrounding which version is superior is not likely to end anytime soon. In fact, as long as Rolex continues to release new iterations of the green Submariner, the conversation will remain alive, fueled by the passion of collectors and enthusiasts who are always on the lookout for the next great Rolex.
For those looking to add a green Submariner to their collection, the current retail price for the 126610LV is $11,200. This is a bit more expensive than the standard black bezel models, which retail for around $10,650. However, finding one in stock at a retail store can be a challenge. For most, the secondary market is the only place to find one, and prices there can easily exceed the retail price, depending on the model and condition.
In conclusion, the green Submariner is more than just a watch—it is a symbol of luxury, achievement, and personal style. Whether it’s the boldness of the Hulk, the classic appeal of the Kermit, or the refined elegance of the Starbucks/Cermit, the green Submariner continues to capture the imagination of collectors and enthusiasts around the world. As Scottie Scheffler’s recent victories have shown, this watch is not just a tool for telling time but a statement of success, one that will continue to spark debates for years to come.