For watch enthusiasts and collectors, certain timepieces transcend mere functionality and become symbols of status, innovation, and enduring design. The Rolex Hulk, officially known as the Rolex Submariner Date 116610LV, is undoubtedly one of these iconic watches. Its striking green dial and bezel, coupled with the robust Submariner DNA, have cemented its place as a highly sought-after and instantly recognizable luxury sports watch. This comprehensive guide delves into every facet of the Rolex Hulk, exploring its history, design, features, market value, and why it continues to captivate watch aficionados worldwide.

What is the Rolex Hulk? Unveiling the Green Giant

The Rolex Hulk is the nickname given to the Rolex Submariner Date reference 116610LV, launched in 2010 to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Rolex Submariner. The "LV" in its reference number stands for "Lunette Verte," French for "Green Bezel," a nod to its most distinguishing feature. However, unlike its predecessor, the "Kermit" (Submariner 16610LV) which only featured a green bezel, the Hulk boasts a vibrant, sunburst green dial in addition to its green Cerachrom bezel. This all-green aesthetic, reminiscent of the Marvel superhero Hulk, is what earned it its popular and enduring nickname.

It's important to note that Rolex officially refers to this watch as the Submariner Date 116610LV. "Hulk" is an affectionate nickname given by the watch community, highlighting the power and boldness associated with its green color scheme.

A Legacy of Innovation: The Submariner Lineage

To truly understand the significance of the Rolex Hulk, it's crucial to appreciate its place within the storied Submariner lineage. The Rolex Submariner, first introduced in 1953, is considered the archetypal dive watch. It was designed for professional divers and quickly became synonymous with underwater exploration and rugged reliability. Over the decades, the Submariner has undergone numerous refinements and improvements, solidifying its reputation as a benchmark in watchmaking.

The Hulk, as a Submariner Date model, inherits all the core characteristics of this legendary line: exceptional water resistance, a robust Oyster case, and a unidirectional rotating bezel for tracking dive times. However, the Hulk also represents a step forward in design and material technology within the Submariner family.

Design and Features: Dissecting the Hulk's Appeal

The Rolex Hulk's allure lies in its striking aesthetics and cutting-edge features. Let's break down the key design elements:

The Captivating Green Dial: A Sunburst Spectacle

The most immediately striking feature is the Hulk's sunburst green dial. Unlike the matte green dials seen on some other watches, the Hulk's dial features a dynamic sunburst finish. This means that the dial's color shifts and plays with light, ranging from a deep, rich emerald green to a brighter, more vibrant shade depending on the angle and illumination. This dynamic quality adds depth and visual interest, making the dial truly captivating and unique.

The Cerachrom Bezel: Scratch-Proof and Fade-Resistant

The Hulk is equipped with a green Cerachrom bezel, a Rolex innovation. Cerachrom is a proprietary ceramic material that is virtually scratch-proof and highly resistant to fading from UV light. This ensures that the bezel retains its vibrant green color and pristine appearance for decades, even with daily wear and exposure to the elements. The bezel is also engraved with numerals and graduations coated in platinum via PVD (Physical Vapor Deposition), adding to its luxurious finish and legibility.

The Maxi Case: Robust and Contemporary

The 116610LV features Rolex's "Maxi Case," which was introduced in the late 2000s. The Maxi Case is characterized by broader lugs and crown guards compared to previous Submariner models, giving the watch a more substantial and contemporary wrist presence. While some purists initially preferred the slimmer cases of earlier Submariners, the Maxi Case has become a defining feature of modern Rolex sports watches, contributing to their robust and tool-like aesthetic.

The Oyster Bracelet with Glidelock Clasp: Comfort and Security

The Hulk is fitted with Rolex's iconic Oyster bracelet, known for its durability and comfort. Crafted from 904L stainless steel (referred to by Rolex as Oystersteel), the bracelet is highly resistant to corrosion and provides a solid, secure feel on the wrist. The Hulk also features the Glidelock extension system on its Oyster bracelet. This ingenious mechanism allows for fine adjustments of the bracelet length in small increments without the need for tools. This is particularly useful for divers wearing the watch over a wetsuit, but also provides exceptional comfort for everyday wear, allowing for a perfect fit regardless of wrist size fluctuations.

The Caliber 3135 Movement: Precision and Reliability

Powering the Rolex Hulk is the venerable Caliber 3135, a Rolex in-house movement renowned for its precision, reliability, and robustness. This automatic movement is a workhorse, featuring a Parachrom hairspring for enhanced resistance to shocks and temperature variations. The Caliber 3135 has been a mainstay in Rolex watches for decades, proving its enduring quality and making it a movement trusted by watchmakers and wearers alike.

Water Resistance: Built for the Deep

As a Submariner, the Hulk boasts impressive water resistance of 300 meters (1,000 feet). This makes it more than capable for recreational diving and all water sports. The Triplock winding crown, another Rolex innovation, further enhances water resistance by creating a secure seal against the Oyster case.

Why "Hulk"? The Nickname's Origin and Significance

The nickname "Hulk" is an obvious and fitting moniker for the Rolex Submariner 116610LV. The vibrant green color of the dial and bezel immediately evokes the image of the Incredible Hulk, the powerful and green-skinned Marvel superhero. The Hulk character is known for his strength, resilience, and larger-than-life presence, qualities that resonate with the robust and attention-grabbing nature of the watch.

The nickname quickly caught on within the watch community and became widely adopted. It's a testament to the watch's visual impact and memorable color scheme. The "Hulk" nickname also adds a touch of playful personality to a serious luxury timepiece, making it even more appealing to a broad range of enthusiasts.

The Allure of Green: Color Psychology and Watchmaking

The choice of green for the Hulk was a bold and strategic move by Rolex. Green is a color often associated with nature, growth, prosperity, and a sense of adventure. In the context of watchmaking, green dials and bezels were less common than black or blue, making the Hulk stand out from the crowd.

Rolex had previously experimented with green bezels with the "Kermit," but the Hulk's full green treatment took the concept to a new level. The vibrant green dial, combined with the Cerachrom bezel, created a visually striking and highly desirable watch. The success of the Hulk demonstrated the growing appreciation for colored dials and bezels in luxury sports watches and paved the way for other brands to explore bolder color palettes.

Rolex Hulk on the Wrist: Experience and Wearability

Wearing a Rolex Hulk is an experience in itself. The watch has a significant wrist presence due to its Maxi Case and vibrant color. It's a watch that commands attention and sparks conversation. Despite its robust build, the Hulk is surprisingly comfortable to wear daily, thanks to the well-designed Oyster bracelet and Glidelock clasp.

The legibility of the dial is excellent in all lighting conditions, with the Chromalight luminescent markers providing a long-lasting blue glow in the dark. The unidirectional rotating bezel is easy to grip and operate, making it functional for timing events, even outside of diving. The overall feel of the Hulk is one of quality, solidity, and refined craftsmanship.

The Rolex Hulk in the Market: Value, Investment, and Collectibility

The Rolex Hulk has become a highly sought-after watch in both the pre-owned and grey markets. Originally priced at a reasonable premium over the standard black Submariner Date, the Hulk's value has appreciated significantly since its discontinuation in 2020. This discontinuation has further fueled its desirability and collector appeal.

Several factors contribute to the Hulk's strong market value:

• Rarity and Discontinuation: The Hulk was produced for approximately 10 years, a relatively short production run compared to some other Rolex models. Its discontinuation has made it instantly collectible and limited in supply.
• Iconic Design: The Hulk's unique green color scheme and Maxi Case design set it apart from other Submariners and Rolex sports watches, making it instantly recognizable and highly desirable.
• Rolex Brand Prestige: Rolex is synonymous with luxury, quality, and investment value. Rolex sports watches, in particular, have historically held and increased in value over time.
• Demand for Green Rolexes: The Hulk capitalized on the growing trend of green watches and solidified green as a desirable color in luxury watchmaking, especially within the Rolex universe.

As a result, the Rolex Hulk is often considered a strong investment piece. Prices in the secondary market can vary depending on condition, completeness of box and papers, and market fluctuations. However, finding a Hulk at its original retail price is virtually impossible, and pre-owned prices typically command a significant premium.

Buying and Selling the Rolex Hulk: Navigating the Market

For those looking to acquire a Rolex Hulk, the primary market is no longer an option as it is discontinued. Therefore, the pre-owned and grey markets are the only avenues. Here are some considerations for buying and selling:

Buying a Rolex Hulk:

• Reputable Dealers: Purchase from reputable pre-owned watch dealers or platforms specializing in luxury watches. Verify their reputation and authenticity guarantees.
• Condition is Key: Carefully inspect the watch's condition. Look for signs of wear, scratches, or damage. Consider the watch's service history.
• Box and Papers: A complete set with original box, papers, and warranty card will significantly increase the watch's value and authenticity.
• Authentication: If possible, have the watch authenticated by a Rolex expert or independent watch authentication service before purchasing.
• Price Research: Research current market prices for the Hulk in similar condition to ensure you are paying a fair price.

Selling a Rolex Hulk:

• Presentation Matters: Ensure the watch is clean and well-presented. Having the original box and papers will maximize its appeal.
• Reputable Platforms: Sell through reputable pre-owned watch dealers, online marketplaces specializing in luxury watches, or auction houses.
• Accurate Description: Provide a detailed and accurate description of the watch's condition, including any flaws or imperfections.
• Competitive Pricing: Research current market prices to determine a competitive and realistic asking price.

The Discontinuation and Legacy of the Hulk: End of an Era, Beginning of a Legend

In 2020, Rolex discontinued the Submariner 116610LV "Hulk" and replaced it with the 126610LV "Starbucks" or "Cermit" (Ceramic Kermit). While the Starbucks also features a green Cerachrom bezel, it has a black dial and a redesigned case and movement. The discontinuation of the Hulk marked the end of an era for the all-green Submariner and solidified its status as a modern classic.

The Rolex Hulk's legacy is secure. It is remembered as a bold and innovative watch that pushed the boundaries of Submariner design. Its striking green color scheme, robust construction, and enduring appeal have made it one of the most iconic and collectible Rolex sports watches of the 21st century. It remains a grail watch for many collectors and a symbol of Rolex's commitment to innovation and timeless design.

Alternatives to the Rolex Hulk: Exploring Green Horizons

While the Rolex Hulk holds a unique place in the watch world, there are alternatives for those seeking similar aesthetics or features, whether due to budget, availability, or personal preference:

• Rolex Submariner 126610LV "Starbucks/Cermit": The successor to the Hulk, offering a green bezel but with a black dial and updated features.
• Rolex Submariner 16610LV "Kermit": The Hulk's predecessor, featuring a green bezel and black dial, and a more vintage aesthetic.
• Omega Seamaster Diver 300M Green: A popular and well-regarded dive watch with a green ceramic bezel and dial, offering a sporty alternative.
• Tudor Black Bay Harrods Edition: A limited edition Black Bay with a green bezel, offering a vintage-inspired aesthetic and Tudor's renowned value proposition.
• Oris Aquis Date Green: A robust and well-built dive watch with a green ceramic bezel and dial, offering excellent value for money.

These alternatives provide options across different price points and styles, allowing enthusiasts to explore the world of green watches and find a timepiece that suits their taste and needs.

Conclusion: The Enduring Legend of the Rolex Hulk

The Rolex Hulk is more than just a watch; it's a cultural icon. Its bold green color, robust Submariner DNA, and limited production run have combined to create a timepiece that is both highly desirable and deeply collectible. From its captivating sunburst green dial to its scratch-proof Cerachrom bezel and reliable Caliber 3135 movement, every aspect of the Hulk reflects Rolex's commitment to excellence and innovation.

While no longer in production, the Rolex Hulk's legacy continues to grow. It remains a symbol of boldness, individuality, and discerning taste within the watch collecting community. Whether you are a seasoned collector or a budding enthusiast, the Rolex Hulk stands as a testament to the enduring power of iconic design and the timeless appeal of the Rolex Submariner.

FAQ: Common Questions About the Rolex Hulk

What is the Rolex Hulk's official reference number?

The official reference number is 116610LV.

Why is it called the "Hulk"?

The nickname "Hulk" comes from its vibrant green dial and bezel, reminiscent of the Marvel superhero Hulk.

When was the Rolex Hulk released and discontinued?

The Rolex Hulk was released in 2010 and discontinued in 2020.

What is the movement inside the Rolex Hulk?

The Rolex Hulk is powered by the Rolex Caliber 3135 automatic movement.

Is the Rolex Hulk a good investment?

Yes, the Rolex Hulk is generally considered a good investment due to its rarity, iconic design, and Rolex brand prestige. Its value has appreciated significantly since discontinuation.

What is the water resistance of the Rolex Hulk?

The Rolex Hulk has a water resistance of 300 meters (1,000 feet).

Where can I buy a Rolex Hulk?

Since it is discontinued, you can only buy a Rolex Hulk from pre-owned watch dealers, grey market platforms, or auction houses.

What is the difference between the Rolex Hulk and the Kermit?

The Rolex Hulk (116610LV) has a green dial and green bezel, while the Kermit (16610LV) has a black dial and green bezel. The Hulk also features a Maxi Case and Cerachrom bezel, while the Kermit has a more traditional case and aluminum bezel.

References and Sources:

1. Rolex Official Website: https://www.rolex.com (For general information on Rolex and Submariner models)
2. Hodinkee: https://www.hodinkee.com (For watch reviews, articles, and market analysis)
3. WatchTime: https://www.watchtime.com (For watch reviews, articles, and industry news)
4. Chrono24: https://www.chrono24.com (For market prices and pre-owned watch listings)
5. Bob's Watches: https://www.bobswatches.com (For Rolex information and pre-owned watch listings)