In the world of luxury watches, few timepieces command the instant recognition and fervent admiration as the Rolex Submariner. Among its esteemed lineage, one model stands out for its bold aesthetics and captivating presence: the Rolex Submariner Hulk, officially known as the Submariner Date 116610LV. This isn't just another Rolex; it's a statement, a symbol of horological prowess wrapped in a vibrant green package. Discontinued in 2020, the Hulk has only amplified its legendary status, becoming a highly sought-after collectible and a benchmark for modern luxury sports watches. This article delves into the fascinating world of the Rolex Submariner Hulk, exploring its history, design, features, market value, and why it continues to captivate watch enthusiasts worldwide.
A Brief History of the Rolex Submariner and the "LV" Lineage
To truly appreciate the Hulk, it's essential to understand its roots. The Rolex Submariner, first launched in 1953, revolutionized dive watches. It was the first wristwatch waterproof to 100 meters (330 feet), setting a new standard for underwater timekeeping. Over the decades, the Submariner has evolved, incorporating advancements in materials, movements, and design, while retaining its core identity as a robust and reliable tool watch.
The "LV" designation in 116610LV stands for "Lunette Verte," French for "Green Bezel." Rolex first introduced a green bezel Submariner in 2003 to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Submariner. This anniversary model, the 16610LV (nicknamed "Kermit"), featured a black dial and an aluminum green bezel. It was a departure from the traditional black bezel Submariner, and while initially met with mixed reactions, it paved the way for bolder iterations.
The Rolex Submariner Hulk 116610LV, launched in 2010, took the green theme to a whole new level. It wasn't just the bezel that was green; the dial itself was a vibrant, sunburst green, creating a cohesive and impactful visual statement. This bold move cemented the Hulk's place as a distinct and unforgettable member of the Submariner family.
Decoding the Design and Features of the Submariner Hulk
The Rolex Submariner Hulk is more than just its color. It's a masterpiece of engineering and design, boasting several key features that contribute to its desirability and performance:
The Striking Green "Cerachrom" Bezel and Dial
The most defining feature of the Hulk is undoubtedly its vibrant green color scheme. Rolex utilizes its proprietary "Cerachrom" ceramic for the bezel insert. This material is exceptionally scratch-resistant, virtually fade-proof, and highly resistant to corrosion. The green hue isn't just a surface coating; it's integral to the ceramic itself, ensuring long-lasting color vibrancy. The 60-minute graduated bezel allows divers to accurately and safely monitor their dive times.
Complementing the bezel is the sunburst green dial. This dial isn't a flat, matte green; it catches and reflects light in a dynamic way, shifting shades and creating a mesmerizing effect. The applied hour markers, crafted from 18ct white gold and filled with Rolex's Chromalight luminescent material, provide excellent legibility in low-light conditions. The date window at 3 o'clock, magnified by the Cyclops lens, adds a practical touch to this sporty timepiece.
The Robust "Maxi Case" and Oyster Bracelet
The Hulk features the "Maxi Case," a hallmark of modern Rolex sports watches. This case is slightly larger and more substantial than previous Submariner iterations, offering a more contemporary wrist presence. Crafted from 904L stainless steel – a superalloy known for its exceptional corrosion resistance and ability to take a high polish – the case is both rugged and refined.
The Oyster bracelet, synonymous with Rolex sports watches, is also crafted from 904L stainless steel. It features solid links and a robust Oysterlock clasp with the Glidelock extension system. This ingenious system allows for fine adjustments to the bracelet length without tools, ensuring a perfect fit over a wetsuit or directly on the wrist. The bracelet is not just about security and functionality; it's also incredibly comfortable and contributes to the overall balanced weight of the watch.
The Caliber 3135 Movement: Precision and Reliability
Powering the Rolex Submariner Hulk is the Rolex caliber 3135, a self-winding mechanical movement renowned for its precision, reliability, and robustness. This movement, entirely developed and manufactured by Rolex, is a certified Swiss chronometer, guaranteeing exceptional accuracy. It features a Parachrom hairspring, offering greater resistance to shocks and temperature variations. The caliber 3135 is a workhorse movement, known for its longevity and ease of servicing, contributing to the Hulk's reputation as a dependable timepiece.
Water Resistance and Dive Watch Heritage
As a true Submariner, the Hulk is water-resistant to 300 meters (1,000 feet). This depth rating goes far beyond the needs of recreational divers, making it suitable for professional diving and any water activity. The Triplock winding crown, featuring a triple waterproofness system, further enhances water resistance, ensuring the watch remains protected even under extreme pressure. The unidirectional rotating bezel is not just for show; it's a critical safety feature for divers, allowing them to track elapsed time underwater and prevent accidental overestimation of dive time.
The Hulk's Discontinuation and Surge in Popularity
In September 2020, Rolex announced the discontinuation of the Rolex Submariner Hulk 116610LV, replacing it with the 126610LV, nicknamed "Starbucks" or "Cermit" (a green bezel on a black dial, similar to the original Kermit but with a ceramic bezel). This discontinuation sent ripples through the watch community and ignited a significant surge in demand and value for the Hulk on the secondary market.
Several factors contributed to the Hulk's immediate rise in collectibility:
- Scarcity: Discontinuation instantly limited the supply of new Hulk models, making existing ones more desirable.
- Iconic Design: The Hulk's unique green-on-green aesthetic had already garnered a significant following. Discontinuation solidified its status as a distinct and limited edition within the Submariner lineage.
- Investment Potential: Rolex sports watches, particularly Submariners, have long been considered strong investments. Discontinuation further enhanced the Hulk's investment appeal, driving up prices in the pre-owned market.
- Nostalgia and Legacy: The Hulk represented a specific era of Rolex design, and its departure created a sense of nostalgia and appreciation for its unique characteristics.
The Rolex Submariner Hulk in the Pre-Owned Market
Today, the Rolex Submariner Hulk is exclusively found on the pre-owned market. Due to its discontinuation and high demand, prices have significantly increased. Depending on condition, year of production, and the presence of original box and papers, Hulk models can command prices significantly above their original retail price and often surpass even current retail prices of other Submariner models.
When considering purchasing a pre-owned Rolex Submariner Hulk, it's crucial to:
- Buy from reputable dealers or platforms: Authenticity is paramount. Choose established dealers specializing in luxury watches or reputable online marketplaces with strong buyer protection.
- Thoroughly inspect the watch: Examine the watch for signs of wear and tear, ensuring it's in the advertised condition. Check the bezel, dial, case, and bracelet for any damage or alterations.
- Verify authenticity: Request documentation, such as the original warranty card and box. Consider having the watch authenticated by a Rolex service center or a trusted independent watch authenticator.
- Understand market prices: Research current market values for Rolex Submariner Hulk models in comparable condition to ensure you're paying a fair price.
Is the Rolex Submariner Hulk a Good Investment?
While past performance is not indicative of future results, the Rolex Submariner Hulk has demonstrated strong investment potential. Its discontinuation, combined with the inherent desirability of Rolex sports watches, has made it a sought-after collectible. However, like any investment, there are risks involved. Market fluctuations and changes in collector preferences can affect value.
For many, the Hulk is more than just an investment; it's a passion piece. Its striking aesthetics, robust engineering, and historical significance make it a watch to be enjoyed and admired. Whether its value continues to appreciate or not, owning a Rolex Submariner Hulk is owning a piece of modern horological history.
Conclusion: The Enduring Appeal of the Rolex Submariner Hulk
The Rolex Submariner Hulk is more than just a green watch; it's a symbol of Rolex's innovation, boldness, and unwavering commitment to quality. From its vibrant Cerachrom bezel and sunburst dial to its robust construction and reliable movement, the Hulk embodies the best of modern Rolex design. Its discontinuation has only amplified its allure, transforming it into a modern icon and a highly coveted timepiece. Whether you're a seasoned collector, a passionate watch enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates exceptional craftsmanship, the Rolex Submariner Hulk remains a compelling and captivating choice in the world of luxury watches, a testament to the enduring power of the Rolex Submariner legacy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about the Rolex Submariner Hulk
Q: What is the official model name of the Rolex Submariner Hulk?
A: The official model name is the Rolex Submariner Date 116610LV.
Q: Why is it called the "Hulk"?
A: The nickname "Hulk" comes from its vibrant green color scheme, reminiscent of the Marvel Comics character.
Q: When was the Rolex Submariner Hulk discontinued?
A: It was discontinued in September 2020.
Q: What replaced the Rolex Submariner Hulk?
A: It was replaced by the Rolex Submariner 126610LV, often nicknamed "Starbucks" or "Cermit," featuring a green ceramic bezel and a black dial.
Q: What is the case size of the Rolex Submariner Hulk?
A: The case size is 40mm.
Q: What movement does the Rolex Submariner Hulk use?
A: It is powered by the Rolex caliber 3135 self-winding mechanical movement.
Q: Is the Rolex Submariner Hulk a good investment?
A: Historically, it has shown strong investment potential due to its discontinuation and high demand. However, watch investments can fluctuate, and past performance is not a guarantee of future returns.
Q: Where can I buy a Rolex Submariner Hulk?
A: Since it's discontinued, you can only buy it on the pre-owned market from reputable dealers, auction houses, and online marketplaces specializing in luxury watches.
Q: How can I verify the authenticity of a pre-owned Rolex Submariner Hulk?
A: Purchase from reputable sources, request original documentation (box, papers), and consider having it authenticated by a Rolex service center or a trusted independent watch authenticator.
Q: What is the water resistance of the Rolex Submariner Hulk?
A: It is water-resistant to 300 meters (1,000 feet).
