will rolex starbucks be discontinued | Starbucks Rolex submariner

The Rolex Submariner, a horological icon, has a long and storied history. Within its lineage, certain iterations have achieved near-mythical status, instantly recognizable and highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts. The "Starbucks" – the Rolex Submariner Date reference 126610LV – is undoubtedly one of these models. Its vibrant green ceramic bezel against a classic black dial has captured the imagination of the watch community, leading to intense speculation about its future. The question on everyone's lips: Will Rolex Starbucks be discontinued?

This article delves into the intricacies of the Rolex Starbucks, examining its origins, design, market performance, and the likelihood of it following in the footsteps of its predecessor, the "Kermit," and being discontinued. We will cover key aspects like the Rolex Starbucks release date, the nuances between potential "Mark 1" versions, comparisons with the Kermit, and the overall context of Rolex sports watch demand. We will also explore the current market for Rolex watches for sale and what implications a discontinuation might have.

The Starbucks Emerges: A New Generation of Green Bezel Submariner

To understand the speculation surrounding the Starbucks, we need to rewind to its introduction. In 2020, Rolex unveiled a completely redesigned Submariner collection. This marked a significant shift, with subtle yet impactful changes to the case dimensions, movement, and overall aesthetic. The most notable update was the increase in case size from 40mm to 41mm, a seemingly small change that significantly altered the watch's wrist presence.

The reference 126610LV, quickly dubbed the "Starbucks" by the watch community, was the green-bezel variant of this new generation. It featured a striking green Cerachrom (Rolex's proprietary ceramic) bezel paired with a classic black dial. This contrasted sharply with the previous green-bezel Submariner, the 16610LV "Kermit," which had a black aluminum bezel and a black dial.

Rolex Starbucks Release Date and Initial Reception

The Rolex Starbucks release date was in the autumn of 2020, coinciding with the launch of the entire 41mm Submariner collection. Initial reception was, as expected, enthusiastic. The green bezel, a nod to Rolex's brand color and a continuation of the Kermit's legacy, resonated deeply with collectors. However, the black dial provided a more versatile and classic aesthetic compared to the Kermit's all-black design.

The 126610LV also benefited from the technical upgrades incorporated into the new generation Submariner. It featured the Caliber 3235, a next-generation movement with improved accuracy, reliability, and a longer power reserve of approximately 70 hours. The redesigned case, while only 1mm larger, offered a more refined and contemporary feel.

The "Mark 1" Myth and the Allure of Early Production Models

As with many Rolex models, rumors began to circulate about potential "Mark 1" variations of the Starbucks. The idea is that early production models might have subtle differences, perhaps in the shade of green used for the bezel or in the dial printing. While there hasn't been widespread confirmation of distinct and officially recognized "Mark 1" versions of the Starbucks like there were with the Kermit (specifically the "Flat Four" bezel), the idea persists.

This fascination with "Mark 1" variants stems from the historical significance of identifying early iterations of iconic watches. These early versions often become more collectible and valuable due to their rarity and the historical context they represent. While concrete evidence of a distinct "Mark 1" Starbucks remains elusive, the possibility contributes to the overall mystique and desirability of the 126610LV.

Starbucks vs. Kermit: A Tale of Two Green Bezel Submariners

The comparison between the Starbucks and the Kermit is inevitable. Both are green-bezel Submariners, but they represent different eras of Rolex design and technology. The Kermit, produced from 2003 to 2010, was a celebration of the Submariner's 50th anniversary. Its black aluminum bezel and black dial offered a more vintage-inspired aesthetic.

The Starbucks, on the other hand, is a thoroughly modern watch. Its Cerachrom bezel is scratch-resistant and fade-proof, and its Caliber 3235 movement is a testament to Rolex's commitment to innovation. The black dial, while classic, offers a cleaner and more contemporary look than the Kermit's.

In terms of collectibility, the Kermit has already established itself as a highly sought-after model, especially the early "Flat Four" bezel versions. The Starbucks, being a current production model, is more readily available (though still difficult to acquire at retail). However, its popularity suggests that it will likely become a highly desirable watch in the future, especially if it is eventually discontinued.

Rolex Starbucks 126610LV: Demand and Availability