What is the Rolex GMT-Master II 'Hulk'?

The Rolex GMT-Master II 'Hulk' (ref. 116710LV) is a stainless steel sports watch released by Rolex in 2010 as part of the GMT-Master II series. It is instantly recognizable due to its striking green "Cerachrom" ceramic bezel and a sunburst green dial, a departure from the more traditional color palettes of previous GMT-Master models. The "LV" in its reference number stands for "Lunette Verte," French for "green bezel," further solidifying its defining characteristic.

While sharing the core functionalities and robust construction of other GMT-Master II models, the Hulk distinguished itself with its bold aesthetic. It was introduced as an evolution of the 50th-anniversary GMT-Master II, which also featured a green bezel but with a black dial. The Hulk took the green theme a step further, embracing the color throughout the watch's face, creating a truly unique and memorable timepiece within the Rolex lineup.

Despite being discontinued in 2019, the Rolex GMT Hulk remains incredibly popular and sought after. Its relatively short production run and distinctive appearance have contributed to its desirability in the pre-owned market, making it a prime example of a modern Rolex classic.

A Legacy of Exploration: The GMT-Master Lineage

To fully appreciate the Rolex GMT Hulk, it's essential to understand its heritage within the esteemed GMT-Master family. The original GMT-Master (reference 6542) was launched in 1955, born from a collaboration between Rolex and Pan American Airways. Pilots needed a watch that could display time in two different time zones simultaneously, aiding them in navigating across continents and managing schedules across different locations.

The GMT-Master's key innovation was the 24-hour rotating bezel and a dedicated 24-hour hand. This functionality allowed pilots to track a second time zone by rotating the bezel to align with the hour hand. The iconic "Pepsi" bezel (red and blue) became synonymous with the GMT-Master, representing day and night hours.

Over the decades, the GMT-Master evolved, introducing improvements in movement technology, materials, and design. The GMT-Master II, launched in the 1980s, brought a significant upgrade with the independently adjustable hour hand. This made setting the local time easier when traveling across time zones without interrupting the 24-hour hand or the reference time.

The Rolex GMT Hulk is a direct descendant of this legacy, carrying forward the spirit of exploration and innovation while pushing the boundaries of Rolex's design language with its vibrant green color scheme. It represents a modern interpretation of the GMT-Master's core functionality, packaged in a contemporary and visually striking form.

Design and Features: Unpacking the 'Hulk's' Appeal

The Rolex GMT Hulk's allure lies in its carefully considered design and robust features, making it both a visually stunning and highly functional timepiece.

The Captivating Green: Bezel and Dial

The most defining feature is, of course, the green color. Rolex opted for a vibrant, almost luminous shade of green for both the Cerachrom bezel and the dial. The bezel, crafted from Rolex's patented ceramic material, Cerachrom, is virtually scratch-proof, fade-resistant, and highly durable. The engraved numerals and graduations on the bezel are filled with platinum, ensuring long-lasting legibility and a touch of luxury.

The sunburst green dial adds another layer of depth and richness to the watch's aesthetics. The sunburst finish creates a dynamic play of light, shifting from lighter to darker shades of green depending on the angle of illumination. This, combined with the Chromalight display with long-lasting blue luminescence on the hour markers and hands, ensures excellent readability in all lighting conditions.

Oyster Case and Bracelet: Robustness and Comfort

Like other Rolex sports watches, the GMT Hulk features a robust 40mm Oyster case crafted from 904L stainless steel. This superalloy is highly resistant to corrosion and maintains its polish even in harsh environments. The case is waterproof to 100 meters (330 feet), making it suitable for swimming and snorkeling. The Triplock winding crown, a triple waterproofness system, further enhances water resistance.

The Hulk is fitted with the Oyster bracelet, a Rolex classic known for its comfort and durability. The solid links and Oysterlock clasp with Easylink comfort extension link ensure a secure and comfortable fit on the wrist. The bracelet is also crafted from 904L stainless steel, complementing the case seamlessly.

Caliber 3186 Movement: Precision and Reliability

Powering the Rolex GMT Hulk is the Rolex caliber 3186, a self-winding mechanical movement renowned for its precision, reliability, and robustness. This movement is chronometer-certified by the COSC (Swiss Official Chronometer Testing Institute), guaranteeing its high accuracy. The caliber 3186 features the Parachrom hairspring, offering greater resistance to shocks and temperature variations.

The movement provides a power reserve of approximately 48 hours and includes the GMT function, allowing the wearer to track a second time zone via the 24-hour hand and rotating bezel. The independent hour hand adjustment is a crucial feature for travelers, enabling quick and easy time zone changes.

Why 'Hulk'? The Nickname Explained

The nickname "Hulk" is quite straightforward and stems directly from the watch's prominent green color scheme. Just as the Marvel Comics character Hulk is known for his immense size and green skin, the Rolex GMT-Master II 116710LV is instantly recognizable for its striking green bezel and dial. The nickname emerged organically within the watch enthusiast community and quickly gained widespread acceptance due to its apt and memorable nature.

The "Hulk" nickname adds to the watch's personality and appeal. It injects a sense of fun and informality into a luxury timepiece, making it feel less stuffy and more approachable. It also contributes to the watch's collectibility, as nicknames often become intertwined with a watch's identity and history within the collecting world. Other Rolex watches with popular nicknames, like the "Batman" (GMT-Master II 116710BLNR) and "Pepsi" (GMT-Master II bezel variations), demonstrate the power of nicknames in shaping a watch's image and desirability.

The Rolex GMT Hulk in the Market: Discontinued but Highly Sought After

Rolex discontinued the GMT-Master II 'Hulk' in 2019, replacing it with the 126710VTNR (nicknamed "Sprite" due to its black and green bezel and left-handed crown). This discontinuation significantly impacted the Hulk's market value and desirability.

As a discontinued model, the Hulk has become increasingly scarce in the pre-owned market. Demand consistently outstrips supply, leading to significant price appreciation. The Rolex GMT Hulk is now considered a highly desirable and valuable collector's item. Its value has steadily increased since its discontinuation, making it not only a beautiful timepiece to wear but also a potentially sound investment.

When considering purchasing a Rolex GMT Hulk in the pre-owned market, it is crucial to buy from reputable dealers or platforms and ensure the watch's authenticity. Due to its popularity and value, counterfeit Hulk watches exist. Careful examination of the watch's details, including the bezel, dial, movement (if possible), and paperwork, is essential to ensure you are acquiring a genuine timepiece.

Who is the Rolex GMT Hulk For?

The Rolex GMT Hulk appeals to a wide range of watch enthusiasts, including:

• Rolex Collectors: For seasoned Rolex collectors, the Hulk represents a crucial piece in the modern GMT-Master II lineage. Its unique color scheme and relatively short production run make it a highly sought-after addition to any serious collection.
• Travelers: Despite its bold appearance, the Hulk retains the core functionality of the GMT-Master II, making it an excellent companion for travelers who need to track multiple time zones.
• Those Seeking a Statement Piece: The vibrant green color ensures the Hulk stands out on the wrist. It's a watch for those who appreciate bold aesthetics and want to make a statement with their timepiece.
• Investors: Due to its increasing value and collectibility, the Rolex GMT Hulk is often considered an investment-grade watch. Its scarcity and desirability suggest its value will likely continue to appreciate over time.
• Green Watch Enthusiasts: For those who simply love the color green, the Hulk is the ultimate green watch. Rolex executed the green theme flawlessly, creating a visually stunning and cohesive design.

Conclusion: The Enduring Legacy of the Green Giant

The Rolex GMT-Master II 'Hulk' is more than just a green Rolex; it's a symbol of bold design, horological excellence, and enduring appeal. Its striking color scheme, combined with the robust functionality of the GMT-Master II and Rolex's legendary craftsmanship, has cemented its place as a modern icon in the watch world.

While discontinued, the Hulk's legacy lives on. It remains a highly coveted timepiece, admired for its unique aesthetics, collectibility, and potential investment value. For those fortunate enough to own a Rolex GMT Hulk, it's a watch that represents not only a piece of Rolex history but also a bold statement of personal style and appreciation for fine horology. The "Hulk" has undoubtedly earned its place among the most desirable and iconic Rolex sports watches ever created, ensuring its legendary status for years to come.

FAQ: Common Questions About the Rolex GMT-Master II 'Hulk'