If you’ve been diving into the world of Rolex watches, you may have come across nicknames like “Pepsi,” “Batman,” and “Hulk.” Among these creative monikers, one of the newer and increasingly popular ones is the Rolex “Starbucks.” But what exactly is it, and why does it have that name?
The Origins of the Starbucks Nickname
The Rolex “Starbucks” is an informal nickname given by collectors and enthusiasts to the Rolex Submariner Date reference 126610LV. Released in 2020, it replaced the Submariner “Hulk” (ref. 116610LV).
The Starbucks combines a black dial with a green ceramic bezel insert, which instantly drew comparisons to the colors of Starbucks’ branding. Collectors love giving Rolex models fun nicknames, and the green-and-black combo quickly earned the title “Starbucks.”
How It Differs from the Hulk
The Starbucks often gets compared to its predecessor, the Rolex Hulk. Here’s how they differ:
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Rolex Hulk (116610LV): Green dial + green bezel.
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Rolex Starbucks (126610LV): Black dial + green bezel.
This subtle yet striking change makes the Starbucks less bold than the Hulk, while still standing out from the classic black Submariner.
Key Features of the Starbucks Submariner
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Case Size: 41mm (slightly larger than the Hulk’s 40mm).
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Material: Oystersteel with a Cerachrom bezel insert.
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Movement: Caliber 3235, offering improved power reserve (70 hours).
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Water Resistance: 300 meters (1,000 feet).
It’s a watch built for diving, yet refined enough to wear with anything from casual outfits to formal attire.
Why Collectors Love It
The Rolex Starbucks hits a sweet spot: it’s bold but not too flashy, modern yet tied to Rolex’s heritage. Because the Hulk was discontinued, the Starbucks has become the “green Submariner” of choice for collectors. Its unique nickname and connection to one of the world’s most recognizable brands only add to the watch’s appeal.
Final Thoughts
While Rolex never officially names its watches after sodas, superheroes, or coffee shops, enthusiasts have a way of making these nicknames stick. The “Starbucks” is one of the most talked-about Submariners in recent years, and it’s already cementing its place as a future classic.