The rumour mill within the horological world is perpetually churning, and few subjects ignite as much fervent speculation as the potential discontinuation of coveted Rolex models. Recently, the focus has been intensely trained on the Rolex "Starbucks," officially the Rolex Submariner Date 126610LV, a watch that has captured the hearts (and wrists) of collectors worldwide. While there's no official announcement from Rolex regarding its discontinuation, the history of the model, coupled with the brand's notoriously secretive practices, fuels ongoing debate and uncertainty. This article will delve into the swirling rumours, examine the context of Rolex's discontinuation practices, and explore the potential future of the "Starbucks" Submariner.
The Rolex Starbucks: A Green Giant in the Watch World
The Rolex Submariner Date 126610LV, affectionately nicknamed the "Starbucks" due to its striking green bezel reminiscent of the coffee giant's logo, has become a modern classic. Its introduction marked a significant moment in Rolex history, offering a vibrant alternative to the more traditional black bezel Submariners. The green ceramic bezel, coupled with the robust Oyster case and the reliable calibre 3235 movement, established it as a desirable and highly sought-after timepiece. Its popularity, however, also contributed to its scarcity, making it a grail watch for many collectors.
This high demand, combined with Rolex's controlled production and distribution, has created a unique market dynamic. The "Starbucks" has consistently commanded a premium above its retail price, often fetching significantly more on the secondary market. This further fuels the speculation surrounding its potential discontinuation. History shows that Rolex often discontinues highly popular models, creating a sense of exclusivity and driving further demand for the discontinued pieces.
The Precedent of Rolex Discontinuations
Rolex's approach to discontinuing models is legendary for its opacity. There are no press releases announcing the end of production; instead, the gradual depletion of stock at authorized dealers serves as the unofficial confirmation. This creates an air of mystery and contributes to the allure of discontinued Rolex watches. The brand's strategy is arguably a masterclass in controlled scarcity, ensuring that the demand for both current and past models remains consistently high.
Many popular Rolex models have faced the axe over the years, including iconic pieces that have since become highly collectible. The "Hulk," another green-bezel Submariner (reference 116610LV), was discontinued after a decade-long run, sparking a similar frenzy of speculation and a surge in its secondary market value. This precedent has led many to believe that the "Starbucks," after its own period of success, might follow suit. The discontinuation of the Rolex Datejust, in certain configurations, also serves as a reminder that even established models are not immune to Rolex's production adjustments.
The Rolex Starbucks Release Date and its Significance
The precise release date of the Rolex Starbucks 126610LV is not publicly documented with pinpoint accuracy by Rolex themselves. However, it's generally accepted that the model was introduced sometime in the mid-2010s. This timeframe is crucial in understanding the potential for its discontinuation. While the exact duration is difficult to determine without official statements from Rolex, the model has enjoyed several years of production, a period comparable to, or even exceeding, the lifespan of some previously discontinued models. This longevity, however, doesn't guarantee its continued production.
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