In the world of luxury timepieces, few names resonate as powerfully as Rolex. Synonymous with precision, durability, and timeless design, Rolex watches are more than mere instruments for telling time; they are status symbols, investment pieces, and objects of desire. Among the vast Rolex catalog, certain models transcend even the brand's lofty standards, achieving iconic status and commanding fervent admiration. The Rolex Submariner 116610LV, affectionately nicknamed the "Hulk," is undoubtedly one such watch. This article delves into the world of the Rolex Hulk, exploring its history, design, legacy, and why it continues to captivate watch enthusiasts and collectors worldwide.
The Genesis of the Green Submariner: A Bold Departure
To understand the Rolex Hulk, we must first appreciate its lineage within the legendary Submariner family. Introduced in 1953, the Submariner was Rolex's pioneering dive watch, designed for professional divers and quickly adopted by adventurers, explorers, and discerning individuals alike. For decades, the Submariner maintained a relatively consistent aesthetic – primarily black dials and bezels. However, Rolex, while steeped in tradition, is not afraid to innovate and occasionally introduce bold departures. The Rolex Submariner 16610LV "Kermit," launched in 2003 to celebrate the Submariner's 50th anniversary, marked the first significant color variation with its striking green aluminum bezel. This "Kermit" paved the way for an even bolder iteration: the Hulk.
Introducing the Hulk: Reference 116610LV – A Green Behemoth
In 2010, Rolex unveiled the Submariner Date 116610LV, immediately christened the "Hulk" by the watch community. This wasn't just a color update; it was a complete transformation. The Hulk retained the core Submariner DNA – the robust Oyster case, the reliable movement, and the iconic Mercedes hands – but amplified its presence with a vibrant green Cerachrom bezel and, crucially, a matching green dial. This monochromatic green aesthetic, coupled with the watch's substantial "Super Case," gave it a powerful, muscular appearance, instantly evoking the image of the Incredible Hulk. The Hulk was not just a green Submariner; it was a statement.
Design and Features: Examining the Hulk's Allure
The Rolex Hulk's appeal lies in its captivating design and the high-quality materials and engineering that define Rolex. Let's break down the key features that contribute to its iconic status:
The Green Cerachrom Bezel: Unfading Brilliance
The most immediately striking element is the green Cerachrom bezel. Cerachrom is Rolex's proprietary ceramic material, renowned for its exceptional scratch resistance, corrosion resistance, and color stability. Unlike aluminum bezels that can fade over time, Cerachrom bezels are virtually impervious to UV rays and scratches, ensuring the vibrant green hue remains consistent for decades. The numerals and graduations on the bezel are recessed and filled with platinum, further enhancing legibility and luxury. This unidirectional rotating bezel is, of course, a functional tool for divers, allowing them to track elapsed time underwater, but on the Hulk, it's also a significant design statement.
The Green Dial: A Sunburst of Emerald
Complementing the bezel is the green "sunburst" dial. This dial is not a flat, matte green; it boasts a dynamic sunburst finish that catches and reflects light beautifully, creating a mesmerizing play of shades from deep forest green to vibrant emerald. This shimmering dial adds depth and sophistication to the Hulk, setting it apart from more utilitarian Submariners. The applied white gold hour markers, filled with Rolex's Chromalight luminescent material, provide exceptional legibility in low-light conditions, a crucial feature for a dive watch.
The Super Case and Oyster Bracelet: Robustness and Comfort
The Hulk features Rolex's "Super Case," a 40mm stainless steel case that is slightly larger and more substantial than previous Submariner generations. This contributes to the watch's "Hulk" moniker and provides a more contemporary wrist presence. Crafted from 904L Oystersteel, a superalloy renowned for its corrosion resistance and lustrous finish, the case is built to withstand harsh environments. The Oyster bracelet, also in 904L Oystersteel, is known for its robustness and comfort. It features solid links and a secure Oysterlock clasp with the Glidelock extension system, allowing for fine adjustments to the bracelet length, even over a wetsuit.
The Caliber 3135 Movement: Precision Engineering
Powering the Rolex Hulk is the Caliber 3135 movement, a Rolex in-house caliber known for its reliability, precision, and robustness. This self-winding mechanical movement has been a workhorse for Rolex for decades, powering numerous models. It features a Perpetual rotor for efficient winding, a Parachrom hairspring for enhanced resistance to shocks and temperature variations, and is a certified Swiss chronometer (COSC), guaranteeing exceptional timekeeping accuracy. While hidden beneath a solid caseback, the Caliber 3135 is the engine that drives the Hulk's dependable performance.
The Hulk's Legacy: Discontinuation and Collectibility
Despite its immense popularity and iconic status, Rolex unexpectedly discontinued the Submariner 116610LV "Hulk" in 2020, replacing it with the 126610LV, nicknamed the "Cermit" or "Starbucks" by the community due to its black dial and green bezel, reminiscent of the original "Kermit" but with a ceramic bezel. This discontinuation sent shockwaves through the watch world and immediately cemented the Hulk's place as a highly sought-after collector's item.
The Impact of Discontinuation on Value
The discontinuation of the Rolex Hulk had a predictable effect on its market value. As supply dried up from authorized dealers, prices on the secondary market soared. The Hulk, already a desirable watch, became even more coveted due to its newfound scarcity. Pre-owned Hulk watches now command significantly higher prices than their original retail price, and their value continues to appreciate, making them not only a beautiful timepiece but also a potentially sound investment.
Why the Hulk Remains So Desirable
Several factors contribute to the enduring desirability of the Rolex Hulk:
- Distinctive Aesthetics: The monochromatic green color scheme is bold, unique, and instantly recognizable. It stands out in a sea of black and blue dial watches.
- Iconic Status: The "Hulk" nickname and its association with power and strength resonate with many. It's a watch that makes a statement without being ostentatious.
- Rolex Heritage: As a Submariner, it carries the weight of Rolex's diving watch legacy and its reputation for quality and durability.
- Investment Potential: Due to its discontinuation and increasing scarcity, the Hulk is seen as a strong investment piece within the luxury watch market.
- Limited Production Run: Compared to standard black Submariners, the Hulk's production run was relatively shorter, further enhancing its exclusivity.
Buying a Rolex Hulk: Navigating the Market
Acquiring a Rolex Hulk today is primarily through the secondary or grey market. Authorized Rolex Dealers (ADs) no longer sell new Hulk models. This presents both opportunities and challenges for prospective buyers.
Authorized Dealers vs. Grey Market
While purchasing from an AD is typically the preferred route for buying a new Rolex, it's no longer an option for the Hulk. The grey market, consisting of reputable dealers specializing in pre-owned and unworn watches, is now the primary source. When buying from the grey market, consider the following:
- Reputation of the Dealer: Research the dealer's reputation and read reviews. Choose established and trusted dealers with a history of selling authentic luxury watches.
- Condition of the Watch: Carefully assess the watch's condition. Look for detailed descriptions and high-quality photos. "Unworn" or "like new" condition will command a premium.
- Box and Papers: Ideally, the watch should come with its original Rolex box, warranty card (papers), and any accompanying booklets. "Full set" watches are more desirable and valuable.
- Authentication: If possible, have the watch authenticated by a reputable watch expert or service center before purchase, especially for high-value transactions. Check serial numbers and hallmarks against Rolex records if possible.
- Pricing: Be prepared to pay a premium over the original retail price. Research current market prices for Rolex Hulk watches to ensure you are paying a fair price. Compare prices from multiple dealers.
Maintaining Your Rolex Hulk: Preserving Value and Longevity
Proper care and maintenance are crucial for preserving the value and longevity of your Rolex Hulk. Here are some essential tips:
Regular Cleaning
Clean your Hulk regularly with a soft, damp cloth and mild soapy water. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners. Rinse thoroughly with clean water and dry with a soft cloth. Pay attention to cleaning the bracelet and clasp, where dirt and grime can accumulate.
Professional Servicing
Rolex recommends a full service every 5-10 years, or sooner if you notice any issues with timekeeping or performance. Rolex service centers are equipped to properly maintain and repair Rolex watches, ensuring they continue to perform optimally. While third-party watchmakers may be an option, using Rolex authorized service is recommended to maintain warranty (if applicable) and ensure the use of genuine Rolex parts.
Proper Storage
When not wearing your Hulk, store it in a safe and dry place, preferably in its original Rolex box or a watch winder. Avoid storing it in direct sunlight or extreme temperatures. Proper storage helps protect it from dust, scratches, and potential damage.
Conclusion: The Enduring Legacy of the Rolex Hulk
The Rolex Submariner 116610LV "Hulk" is more than just a green watch; it's a symbol of Rolex's willingness to innovate, a testament to exceptional design and engineering, and a highly sought-after collector's item. Its bold aesthetics, robust construction, and now, its scarcity due to discontinuation, have cemented its place as a legend in the world of luxury watches. Whether you are a seasoned collector, a passionate watch enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates exceptional craftsmanship, the Rolex Hulk represents a pinnacle of horological achievement and continues to captivate and inspire awe. Its legacy as a green icon in the Rolex universe is secure, and its value, both intrinsic and monetary, is only likely to grow with time.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about the Rolex Hulk
Q: What is the Rolex Hulk reference number?
A: The Rolex Hulk's reference number is 116610LV.
Q: Why is it called the "Hulk"?
A: It's nicknamed the "Hulk" due to its monochromatic green color scheme (green bezel and green dial) and its robust "Super Case," which gives it a powerful and muscular appearance, reminiscent of the Marvel Comics character, the Incredible Hulk.
Q: Is the Rolex Hulk still in production?
A: No, the Rolex Hulk (116610LV) was discontinued in 2020 and replaced by the 126610LV with a black dial and green bezel (nicknamed "Cermit" or "Starbucks").
Q: How much does a Rolex Hulk cost?
A: The original retail price when it was discontinued was around $9,000 USD. However, on the secondary market, prices vary significantly based on condition, completeness of set (box and papers), and market demand. As of late 2023/early 2024, expect to pay anywhere from $18,000 to $25,000 USD or even higher for unworn or full set examples.
Q: Is the Rolex Hulk a good investment?
A: Many consider the Rolex Hulk to be a strong investment piece. Due to its discontinuation, scarcity, and enduring popularity, its value has appreciated significantly and is expected to continue to do so over time. However, like any investment, watch values can fluctuate, and past performance is not indicative of future results. It's crucial to research market trends and purchase from reputable sources.
Q: What is the movement in the Rolex Hulk?
A: The Rolex Hulk is powered by the Rolex Caliber 3135, a self-winding mechanical movement known for its reliability and precision.
Q: What are some alternatives to the Rolex Hulk?
A: If you are looking for green Rolex watches, consider the newer Rolex Submariner 126610LV "Cermit" (green bezel, black dial), the Rolex GMT-Master II 126720VTNR "Sprite" (black and green bezel, left-handed), or vintage Rolex Submariner models with green bezels. For green dial watches outside of Rolex, explore brands like Omega, Breitling, or Tudor, although none quite capture the unique aesthetic of the Hulk.
Q: Where can I buy a Rolex Hulk?
A: You can purchase a Rolex Hulk primarily from reputable grey market dealers, pre-owned watch retailers, and auction houses. Authorized Rolex Dealers no longer sell new Hulk models.
References and Sources
- Rolex Official Website: www.rolex.com
- Hodinkee: www.hodinkee.com (Reputable watch news and review site)
- Watchfinder & Co.: www.watchfinder.co.uk (Pre-owned watch retailer and resource)
- Bob's Watches: www.bobswatches.com (Pre-owned Rolex specialist)
- Chrono24: www.chrono24.com (Global marketplace for luxury watches)
