In the pantheon of legendary timepieces, the Rolex Submariner stands tall as an icon of horological excellence and enduring style. Within this esteemed family, certain models transcend even the Submariner's already lofty status. The Rolex Submariner 116610LV, affectionately nicknamed the "Hulk," is undoubtedly one of these exceptional iterations. This vibrant, green-clad marvel, officially known as the Oyster Perpetual Submariner Date, captured the hearts of watch enthusiasts worldwide with its bold aesthetics and robust engineering. Though discontinued in 2020, the Rolex 116610LV Submariner remains a highly sought-after collector's piece, embodying a unique chapter in the Submariner legacy. This comprehensive guide delves deep into the world of the Rolex 116610LV, exploring its history, design, features, market value, and everything you need to know about this horological heavyweight.
To truly appreciate the significance of the Rolex 116610LV Submariner, it's crucial to understand the rich heritage of the Submariner itself. Launched in 1953, the original Submariner (reference 6204) was a groundbreaking timepiece. It was one of the first watches designed specifically for divers, boasting water resistance to 100 meters (330 feet). Rolex's pioneering spirit and commitment to innovation laid the foundation for a lineage of watches renowned for their reliability, functionality, and timeless design.
Over the decades, the Submariner has undergone numerous refinements and upgrades, each iteration building upon the strengths of its predecessors. From the introduction of crown guards to improved water resistance, and the incorporation of date functions, the Submariner evolved to meet the demands of professional divers and discerning watch aficionados alike. The Rolex 116610LV represents a pivotal point in this evolution, embodying both the classic Submariner DNA and a bold step forward in design.
The Rolex 116610LV Submariner was introduced in 2010, marking the 50th anniversary of the Submariner Date model (though technically, the Submariner itself was launched earlier). This reference was not the first green Submariner. That honor belongs to the 16610LV "Kermit," launched in 2003 for the Submariner's 50th anniversary. However, the 116610LV took the green concept to a new level, earning its "Hulk" nickname due to its more substantial presence and, most importantly, its vibrant green dial and bezel.
While the "Kermit" featured a black dial with a green bezel, the Rolex 116610LV boldly embraced green in its entirety. This striking color combination, coupled with the "Super Case" and broader lugs of the updated Submariner generation, gave the 116610LV a powerful and contemporary aesthetic. It was a statement piece, a departure from the traditional black Submariner, and a watch that instantly commanded attention.
One of the defining features of the Rolex 116610LV Submariner is its unidirectional rotating bezel crafted from green Cerachrom. Cerachrom is Rolex's proprietary ceramic material, renowned for its exceptional hardness, scratch resistance, and resistance to fading from UV light. This ensures that the vibrant green hue of the bezel remains consistent and brilliant for generations. The bezel is also engraved with numerals and graduations coated in platinum via PVD, further enhancing its luxurious appeal and legibility. Its unidirectional rotation is a crucial safety feature for divers, allowing them to accurately track elapsed dive time.
Complementing the green bezel is the Rolex 116610LV's sunburst green dial. This dial is not just a flat green surface; it features a sunburst finish that radiates outwards from the center, creating dynamic light play and depth. The applied hour markers and hands are crafted from 18ct white gold, ensuring they will never tarnish and providing a luxurious touch. These are filled with Rolex's Chromalight luminescent material, emitting a long-lasting blue glow in low-light conditions for exceptional underwater visibility. The date window at 3 o'clock is magnified by the iconic Cyclops lens, a signature Rolex feature that enhances readability.
The Rolex 116610LV Submariner features Rolex's signature Oyster case, crafted from 904L stainless steel, often referred to as "superalloy" steel. This material is exceptionally resistant to corrosion and maintains a beautiful polish. The 40mm case (though it wears slightly larger due to the "Super Case" design) is robust and waterproof to 300 meters (1,000 feet), adhering to the Submariner's diving heritage. The Oyster bracelet, also in 904L steel, is known for its durability and comfort. It features solid links and the Oysterlock safety clasp with the Glidelock extension system. Glidelock allows for fine adjustments to the bracelet length without tools, ensuring a perfect fit over a wetsuit or directly on the wrist.
Powering the Rolex 116610LV Submariner is the Rolex Caliber 3135, a self-winding mechanical movement renowned for its precision and reliability. This movement is a workhorse, developed and manufactured entirely in-house by Rolex. It features a Parachrom hairspring, which is highly resistant to shocks and temperature variations, ensuring consistent timekeeping performance. The Caliber 3135 is a certified Swiss chronometer, having passed rigorous testing by the COSC (Contrôle Officiel Suisse des Chronomètres). It provides a power reserve of approximately 48 hours.
The discontinuation of the Rolex 116610LV Submariner in 2020 significantly boosted its desirability among collectors. Its relatively short production run compared to other Submariner models makes it inherently rarer. The "Hulk" represents a specific era of Submariner design and a bold aesthetic choice that resonated with many. The limited availability in the pre-owned market, coupled with its iconic status, drives up demand and, consequently, its value.
Rolex watches, in general, are known for holding their value exceptionally well, and the Rolex 116610LV Submariner is no exception. In fact, due to its discontinuation and collectibility, the "Hulk" has seen significant appreciation in value on the secondary market. For many watch enthusiasts, acquiring a Rolex 116610LV is not just about owning a beautiful timepiece; it's also seen as a sound investment. While watch values can fluctuate, the historical performance of the "Hulk" suggests it will likely remain a highly desirable and valuable asset.
Beyond its technical merits and investment potential, the Rolex 116610LV Submariner is simply a stunning watch to wear. The vibrant green color, the sunburst dial, and the robust case combine to create a timepiece with undeniable "wrist presence." It's a watch that stands out from the crowd, making a bold statement about the wearer's style and appreciation for quality horology. The "Hulk" is not just a tool watch; it's a luxury accessory that exudes confidence and individuality.
Since the Rolex 116610LV Submariner is discontinued, the primary market for purchasing one is the pre-owned or "grey" market. It's crucial to exercise caution and due diligence when buying from these sources. Reputable dealers specializing in pre-owned luxury watches are the safest bet. Look for dealers with a strong reputation, positive reviews, and a guarantee of authenticity. Be prepared to pay a premium over the original retail price, as demand for the "Hulk" significantly exceeds supply.
When considering a pre-owned Rolex 116610LV Submariner, verifying authenticity is paramount. Request original box and papers if available. Examine the watch closely for any signs of damage or modification. Pay attention to details like the Rolex crown at 12 o'clock on the dial, the Cyclops lens magnification, the serial number engraved on the rehaut (inner bezel ring), and the quality of the bracelet and clasp. If possible, have the watch authenticated by a Rolex service center or a trusted independent watch authenticator before making a purchase.
To ensure your Rolex 116610LV Submariner remains in excellent condition for years to come, proper care and maintenance are essential. Regularly clean the watch with a soft, damp cloth and mild soapy water. Avoid exposing it to harsh chemicals or extreme temperatures. While the 904L steel is durable, it's still advisable to avoid subjecting the watch to unnecessary impacts or scratches. Rolex recommends a service interval of approximately 10 years, but it's wise to have the watch inspected by a Rolex authorized service center every 5-7 years to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
- Iconic and instantly recognizable design.
- Vibrant and unique green color scheme.
- Robust and durable construction.
- High-performance Caliber 3135 movement.
- Excellent investment potential and value retention.
- Comfortable and adjustable Oyster bracelet.
- Scratch-resistant Cerachrom bezel.
- Water-resistant to 300 meters (1,000 feet).
- Discontinued and difficult to find at retail.
- High price point, especially on the pre-owned market.
- The bold green color may not appeal to all tastes.
- "Super Case" design wears slightly larger than traditional Submariners.
The Rolex 116610LV Submariner, the "Hulk," stands as a testament to Rolex's enduring innovation and design prowess. It's more than just a dive watch; it's a symbol of status, a collector's dream, and a piece of horological history. Its bold green aesthetic, robust construction, and exceptional movement have cemented its place as a modern icon. While no longer in production, the legacy of the Rolex 116610LV lives on, continuing to captivate watch enthusiasts and command respect in the world of luxury timepieces. For those fortunate enough to own a "Hulk," it's not just a watch, but a prized possession that embodies the spirit of adventure and the timeless appeal of the Rolex Submariner.