Hello, I’m Classical.
As always, every product I review has been purchased with my own money. I have no affiliation with any brand.
I also avoid reviewing products that I haven’t used extensively. Borrowing a watch for a few hours or reviewing a sponsored product doesn’t qualify as a genuine review in my opinion. Real impressions only come from long-term ownership and actual use.
Brand & Model
Brand: Rolex
Model: Rolex Submariner Date 126610LV (Starbucks)
Specifications
- Movement: Rolex Calibre 3235
- Power Reserve: Approximately 70 hours
- Water Resistance: 300 meters (1,000 ft)
Why I Bought the Rolex Submariner 126610LV
The Return of the World’s Most Famous Dive Watch
Several years ago, I owned the Rolex Submariner 116610LV, better known as the “Hulk.”
I purchased it around 2016 for approximately USD 8,600 (around KRW 10 million at the time) and wore it for about two years before selling it for approximately USD 6,000 (around KRW 7 million).
Back then, aside from the Daytona, Rolex Professional models weren’t viewed as investment pieces the way they are today. They were simply professional sports watches chosen according to personal taste.
Then time passed.
After the COVID era, the watch market changed dramatically.
Recently, I found myself buying another green-bezel Submariner.
This time, it’s the Rolex Submariner Date 126610LV, commonly known as the “Starbucks.”
Long-Term Review of the Rolex Submariner Date 126610LV
Design
The biggest difference compared to the Hulk is undoubtedly the dial.
The 116610LV featured both a sunburst green dial and a green ceramic bezel, while the 126610LV combines a black dial with a green ceramic bezel.
The result is a much more restrained and versatile appearance.
Personally, I believe this design will age far better. The green bezel provides just enough color to stand out while remaining unmistakably recognizable as the iconic Green Submariner.
How One Millimeter Changes Everything
On paper, the case diameter has only increased by 1 mm.
In reality, however, it feels like a much bigger change on the wrist.
The redesigned lugs and updated case proportions have divided opinions among enthusiasts. Some still prefer the older Maxi Case, while others appreciate the slimmer and more balanced profile.
For me, the new proportions simply look more refined.
The Glidelock Clasp Is Still One of the Best Bracelet Systems Ever Made
As a diver, the Glidelock extension system remains one of my favorite features.
Whether you’re wearing a wetsuit or not, the bracelet can be adjusted instantly without any tools.
I’ve owned and used numerous dive watches over the years, and I still consider Rolex’s Glidelock one of the finest micro-adjustment systems available on any metal bracelet.
A Watch That Truly Belongs in the Ocean
Instead of photographing an elaborate unboxing, I took this watch straight into the sea.
For me, a dive watch should be judged underwater—not inside a display case.
Visibility beneath the surface was excellent. The hands and hour markers remained highly legible, while the green ceramic bezel appeared even deeper and richer than it does on land.
It reminded me once again that the Submariner isn’t merely a luxury watch.
It is, first and foremost, a genuine professional dive watch.
Final Thoughts
The Rolex Submariner Date 126610LV isn’t a completely new watch.
Instead, it demonstrates why the Submariner’s design has remained largely unchanged for decades.
Rather than introducing dramatic changes, Rolex has continuously refined an already outstanding design. That’s exactly why so many people continue to choose it.
In the end, I bought another Submariner.
Trends come and go, but the Rolex Submariner continues to define what a modern dive watch should be.
I only hope this one stays with me a little longer than the last.
Pros
- Timeless and instantly recognizable design
- Excellent proportions with the updated case
- Outstanding underwater legibility
- Industry-leading Glidelock bracelet adjustment
- Reliable Calibre 3235 movement with a 70-hour power reserve
- True professional dive watch capability
Cons
- Premium pricing and limited retail availability
- Polarizing among collectors who prefer the older Hulk
- Extremely difficult to purchase at retail price
Verdict
The Rolex Submariner Date 126610LV (Starbucks) proves that true icons don’t need dramatic reinvention.
Instead of changing what already works, Rolex refined every detail that mattered. Whether you’re a diver, a collector, or simply someone who appreciates timeless watch design, it’s easy to understand why the Submariner remains the benchmark against which every dive watch is measured.
