The Rolex Submariner 116610LV, affectionately known as the "Hulk" due to its vibrant green bezel and dial, is a legendary watch that captivated collectors and enthusiasts alike during its production run. This article delves deep into the world of the Hulk Rolex, exploring its history, its discontinuation, its fluctuating market value, and its comparison to its close relative, the Kermit. We’ll also examine price predictions, current market prices, and explore the reasons behind its meteoric rise and eventual disappearance from Rolex's catalog.
The Hulk's Genesis and Rise to Fame:
Before the Hulk, Rolex offered the Submariner in classic black and various other color combinations. However, the introduction of the 116610LV in 2010 marked a significant departure. The striking green ceramic bezel, a first for the Submariner line, immediately set it apart. This wasn't just a simple color change; it was a bold statement, a vibrant splash of color in a traditionally understated watch world. The green dial complemented the bezel perfectly, creating a cohesive and remarkably eye-catching design.
The Hulk's popularity wasn't an overnight phenomenon. It steadily gained traction, becoming a highly sought-after piece amongst collectors and watch enthusiasts. Its appeal lay in several factors:
* The Iconic Submariner Lineage: The Hulk leveraged the immense prestige and legacy of the Submariner, a dive watch synonymous with robustness, accuracy, and style. Building upon this established reputation, the Hulk added a unique twist, making it instantly recognizable and desirable.
* The Vibrant Green Ceramic Bezel: The use of ceramic for the bezel was a significant technological advancement, offering superior scratch resistance compared to the aluminum bezels of previous Submariner models. The vibrant green color was both bold and sophisticated, setting it apart from the more traditional black and blue bezels.
* Limited Availability: Like many highly sought-after Rolex models, the Hulk was often difficult to obtain directly from authorized dealers. This limited availability fuelled demand and contributed to its rising value in the secondary market.
* The "Modern" Submariner Aesthetic: The 116610LV incorporated the larger 40mm case size introduced in the later Submariner models, which many preferred to the slightly smaller case size of earlier iterations. This, along with the updated movement, cemented its place as a modern classic.
Hulk Rolex Discontinued:
In 2020, Rolex discontinued the 116610LV, marking the end of an era. The announcement sent shockwaves through the watch community, further solidifying the Hulk's legendary status. The discontinuation, coupled with its already high demand, propelled the price of pre-owned Hulks to unprecedented levels. The reasons behind Rolex's decision remain largely speculative, but several factors likely contributed:
* Market Saturation and Demand Management: Rolex is known for carefully managing its production and distribution to maintain exclusivity and desirability. Discontinuing a popular model can be a strategic move to control supply and maintain high demand for other models in their lineup.
* Introduction of the New Submariner: The discontinuation coincided with the release of the new generation of Submariner models, featuring updated movements and subtle design refinements. The new models offered a fresh aesthetic, potentially making the older Hulk less attractive to some buyers.
* Shifting Design Preferences: While the Hulk was undeniably popular, Rolex might have decided to shift its focus to other colorways or designs to cater to evolving market trends.
Rolex Hulk Price Prediction:
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