Hello everyone, I am purewatches. At the beginning of 2026, the same question was asked backstage: “Which generation should Green Water Ghost buy now? TM, VS, ARF… there are so many manufacturers, which one is reliable?”
To be honest, in the Rolex Submariner (commonly known as the “Water Ghost”),green water ghostDefinitely top of the line. But now there are actually both circulating on the marketFour generations of different versions, from the retro aluminum rim model in 2003 to the latest emerald green ceramic rim model in 2023, it can be said that “four generations live under one roof”. Today I will take you through it all at once:What does each generation look like, what are the core differences, which factory should you choose, and which model is the most stable for ordinary people to buy with their eyes closed?
🔹 First generation (2003–2010): a treasure for retro enthusiasts, 40mm aluminum rim black plate
This is the earliest prototype of the green water ghost – in fact, itThe dial is black, onlyGreen aluminum ring, so strictly speaking it is more accurate to call him a “green circle nigger”. The watch diameter is 40mm, the mirror is small, the strap is a hollow link, the buckle is as thin as a piece of steel, and the overall style is very retro.
There is also a little trivia about the details: there are two versions: “with engraving on the inner shadow circle” and “without engraving”, which can be distinguished by those who know it at a glance. If you like a nostalgic mechanical feel and pursue niche collection value, this generation is worth considering.
✅ Recommended factory: TM factory
At present, only TM Factory has done a good job in replicating the first generation. The aluminum ring texture, font printing, and even the hollow structure of the strap are highly restored, making it the first choice for retro players.
🔹 The second generation (2010–2020): a hit in ten years, the real “Green Water Ghost” was born!
This is what the public knowsClassic green water ghost: 40mm table diameter,Green ceramic ring + green dial, the first time to achieve “all-green” design, instantly detonating the world. The movement uses 3135, which has stable performance. The strap has also been upgraded to a solid five-bead chain, which is solid to wear.
This generation has been popular for a full decade and is still hard currency in the second-hand market. There are most replicas, but the quality is mixed.
✅ Recommended factory: VS factory
VS’s second-generation Green Water Ghost takes the lead in terms of bezel greenness, luminous filling, mirror transparency, and movement stability (equipped with Dandong 3135 or upgraded version). The details are polished close to the original, and it is extremely cost-effective.The first choice for self-wearing。
🔹 Third generation (2020–2023): 41mm large case diameter + black plate returns
Rolex major facelift in 2020: watch diameter increased to41mm, dialturn back to black, but retain the green ceramic ring, and the movement is upgraded to3235, the power reserve has been increased to 70 hours, and the adjustment logic is more advanced (quick calendar jump, independent time adjustment).
The appearance has a bit of a “retro + modern” mix and match, which is suitable for friends who like large watch diameters but don’t want to be too ostentatious.
✅ Recommended factory: VS factory
The third generation of VS is also equipped withDandong 3235 integrated movement, function matching, accurate travel time, brushed case, reflective texture of ceramic ring, and magnifying glass centering are all top-notch in the industry.Sufficient for daily commuting + light diving。
🔹 The fourth generation (from 2023.5): Emerald green circle appears, details are fine-tuned
The fourth and third generations are almost the same:41mm, black plate, 3235 movement, the only difference is——Ring color is brighter! From the dark green of the third generation tograssy emerald green, more lively and recognizable in the sun.
Many people think it is “too young” at first glance, but after using it, they feel full of youthfulness, especially suitable for spring and summer wear.
✅ Recommended factory: ARF factory
Currently there are onlyARF factoryThe fourth generation of stable shipments adoptsDandong 3235 movement, the color of the bezel glaze is very accurate, the weight of the case, the anti-glare mirror, and the fit of the strap are not inferior to those of VS. Note:ARF ≠ AR factory, don’t get confused!
🎯 Summary: How should ordinary people choose?
- Want to collect/play retro → SelectTM factory first generation(Aluminum ring black plate)
- Want classic value preservation + high recognition → Close your eyes and enterVS factory second generation(all green disk)
- Prefer large watch diameter + practical movement → SelectVS factory third generation(Black plate with dark green circle)
- Love the freshness + eye-catching colors → onARF factory fourth generation(Black plate and emerald green circle)
⚠️ Important reminder:
99% of the Green Water Ghosts on the market labeled as “C Factory Inventory” or “Old VS Clearance” are refurbished or off-brand movements.Look for formal channels + factory logo, don’t suffer a big loss just to save hundreds of dollars!