The Rolex Submariner has long been a symbol of rugged elegance and unparalleled horological prowess. Within the Submariner family lies a particularly coveted variant, affectionately nicknamed the "Kermit" due to its distinctive green bezel. This year marks a significant milestone – although not an official anniversary from Rolex themselves – as we reflect on the legacy of this iconic timepiece, particularly focusing on the model that captured the hearts of collectors in 2003 and beyond. This article will delve into the history, specifications, current market value, and compare it to its equally celebrated green-bezel sibling, the Hulk.
Rolex Kermit History: A Green Legend Emerges
The story of the Kermit isn't a singular event, but rather an evolution of design and collector appreciation. While the term "Kermit" is relatively recent, the lineage traces back to the reference 1665, a Submariner with a green bezel introduced in the late 1960s. However, these early green-bezel Submariners lacked the consistent, vibrant green that would define the later Kermit. The true ancestor to the modern Kermit is arguably the reference 16750, a GMT-Master with a green bezel insert, also known as the "GMT Kermit." This model, produced from 1980 to 1988, laid the groundwork for the distinctive color that would become synonymous with the Submariner Kermit.
The modern Rolex Submariner Kermit, as we know it, arrived on the scene in 2003 with the reference 16610LV. This marked a significant shift. Unlike its predecessors, the 16610LV boasted a vibrant, almost neon, green aluminum bezel insert, a departure from the more muted greens of earlier models. This intense green, combined with the classic Submariner design, instantly captivated collectors and watch enthusiasts. The "LV" in the reference number denotes the green ("Vert" in French) bezel. This specific model is often considered the starting point for discussions around the "50th Anniversary Kermit," even though Rolex didn't explicitly market it as such. The 50th anniversary refers to the Submariner line itself, and the Kermit's enduring popularity within that lineage.
The 16610LV was discontinued in 2010, making it a highly sought-after collectible. Its relatively short production run, combined with its striking aesthetics, has solidified its place as a legend among Rolex enthusiasts. The subsequent 116610LV, introduced in 2010, maintained the green bezel but incorporated the updated case and bracelet design of the new generation Submariners. This newer generation Kermit is also highly collectible, though its longer production run means it's generally less expensive than its predecessor.
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