submariner rolex hulk | Rolex Hulk price chart

The Rolex Submariner "Hulk," officially known as the Rolex Submariner Date 116610LV, is arguably one of the most recognizable and sought-after luxury timepieces of the 21st century. Its vibrant green Cerachrom bezel and matching green dial instantly set it apart from its more conservative siblings in the Submariner family, earning it the moniker "Hulk" for its powerful, eye-catching appearance. But more than just aesthetics, the Hulk’s story is one of innovation, scarcity, and a dedicated following that has cemented its place in horological history. This article will delve into the fascinating world of the Submariner Rolex Hulk, exploring its history, features, market value, and future prospects.

The Rise of the Green Giant: A Brief History

The Rolex Submariner 116610LV, affectionately nicknamed the "Hulk," was introduced in 2010 as a successor to the 50th Anniversary Submariner, the 16610LV, nicknamed the "Kermit." The Kermit, with its black dial and green aluminum bezel, was a bold departure for Rolex at the time, marking the Submariner’s half-century milestone. The Hulk, however, took the concept even further.

The Hulk represented a significant upgrade in both materials and aesthetics. It featured a Maxi case, which was larger and more robust than its predecessor, providing a more substantial presence on the wrist. More importantly, the Hulk introduced Rolex's proprietary Cerachrom (ceramic) bezel insert, offering superior scratch resistance and color stability compared to the aluminum bezel of the Kermit. The dial was also a major departure, featuring a vibrant sunburst green that played with the light in captivating ways.

Key Features of the Submariner Rolex Hulk (116610LV):

* Case: 40mm Oystersteel case, providing exceptional durability and corrosion resistance. The Maxi case design offered a more prominent and modern look.

* Bezel: Unidirectional rotating bezel with a green Cerachrom (ceramic) insert. The Cerachrom bezel is virtually scratch-proof and resistant to fading from UV exposure. The graduations are coated with platinum for enhanced visibility and legibility.

* Dial: Green sunburst dial, offering a dynamic and captivating visual effect. The applied hour markers are made of 18ct white gold and filled with Chromalight, providing long-lasting blue luminescence for optimal readability in low-light conditions.

* Movement: Rolex Caliber 3135, a self-winding mechanical movement renowned for its accuracy and reliability. The Caliber 3135 is a COSC-certified chronometer, guaranteeing exceptional precision.submariner rolex hulk

* Crystal: Scratch-resistant sapphire crystal with a Cyclops lens over the date aperture at 3 o'clock for enhanced readability.

* Bracelet: Oyster bracelet made of Oystersteel with a Glidelock extension system, allowing for fine adjustments of the bracelet length without the need for tools. This ensures a comfortable and secure fit on the wrist, even over a wetsuit.

* Water Resistance: 300 meters (1000 feet), making it a true diving watch.

The Discontinuation and its Impact

The horological world was taken by surprise when Rolex discontinued the Submariner Hulk in 2020. This announcement sent shockwaves through the watch community, immediately impacting the watch's value and desirability. The discontinuation coincided with the release of the redesigned Submariner 126610LV, known as the "Cermit" or "Starbucks," which features a black dial and green Cerachrom bezel.

Is the Rolex Hulk Discontinued? Yes, officially. Rolex no longer produces the 116610LV Submariner Hulk. This scarcity is a significant factor driving its current value and appeal.

Rolex Hulk Submariner for Sale: Navigating the Market

Finding a Rolex Hulk for sale requires patience, diligence, and a discerning eye. Because it's discontinued, you won't find it at authorized Rolex dealers (ADs). The primary avenues for acquiring a Hulk are:

* Reputable Pre-Owned Watch Dealers: These dealers specialize in buying and selling pre-owned luxury watches. They often have a network of sources and can authenticate the watch, providing peace of mind. Always research the dealer's reputation and read reviews before making a purchase. Look for dealers with strong return policies and guarantees of authenticity.

* Online Marketplaces: Platforms like Chrono24, eBay, and specialized watch forums offer a wide selection of Rolex Hulks. However, exercise extreme caution when buying online. Thoroughly vet the seller, request detailed photos and videos, and consider using an escrow service for secure transactions. Authentication by an independent expert is highly recommended.

* Auction Houses: Auction houses like Christie's and Sotheby's occasionally feature Rolex Hulks in their watch auctions. This can be a good option for finding rare or pristine examples, but be prepared for competitive bidding.

* Private Sales: Buying directly from a private seller can sometimes offer a better price, but it also carries the highest risk. Ensure you meet in a safe location, have the watch authenticated by a professional, and be wary of deals that seem too good to be true.