If there’s one thing the entire watch fraternity can agree on, it is that Rolex has consistently aimed to deliver nothing but the very best to its customers worldwide through its exceptional creations. And, it doesn’t take long for the watch connoisseurs to coin a catchy moniker for a model that stands out in the crowd.
One among them is the iconic Rolex Submariner ‘Hulk’, now one of their bestsellers. Originally released at Baselworld 2010, the Submariner Date 116610LV is commonly called the “Rolex Hulk” by enthusiasts and collectors alike.
This green Sub remains the model of consistency in the pre-owned market, commanding a hefty premium on the secondary market. So today, we’ll look back at its humble beginning and what makes it Rolex’s ‘Green’ Beast!
Let’s start with the basics.
What is a Rolex ‘Hulk’?
The Rolex Submariner Date Ref. 116610LV is a stainless steel model with a vibrant green bezel and dial. Its green-on-green appearance earned it the nickname ‘Hulk’ from enthusiasts and collectors.
Key Details:
- Year: 2010 – 2020
- Model: Submariner Date ‘Hulk’ 116610LV
- Case Size: 40mm
- Material: Stainless Steel
- Dial: Green
- Bezel: Green, Cerachrom insert with 60-minute scale, Unidirectional
- Crystal: Sapphire
- Bracelet: Stainless steel, Oyster
- Movement: Calibre 3135
- Power Reserve: 48 hours
- Water Resistance: 300 metres
Brief History of the Submariner’ Hulk’
Rolex released it’s first-ever diver’s timepiece, the Submariner, in 1953. The watch was incredibly robust and ultra-reliable. Over the years, Rolex expanded the collection with several metal variants, including two-tone and full gold Submariner models. The Submariner’s timelessness made it more than just a functional sports watch.
In 2003, Rolex unveiled the Submariner Date Ref. 16610LV to celebrate the 50th anniversary of its legendary model. The watch features a bright green aluminium bezel insert, a first for the brand to add an unconventional colour to its traditionally monochromatic steel dive watches. It was affectionately named the ‘Kermit’.
At Baselworld 2010, Rolex introduced an upgraded version of the ‘Kermit’ with the reference 116610LV, featuring a thicker case and a bright green dial and bezel. The watch immediately caught the attention of the watch community for its all-green profile. It was named “Rolex Hulk” in reference to the green superhero from the Marvel universe.
After a decade of production, Rolex discontinued the Submariner Hulk Ref. 116610LV in 2020, making it one of the most sought-after models in the secondary market.
Rolex Submariner ‘Hulk’ 116610LV Design & Details
The Submariner’ Hulk’ was not just the first model to introduce a green dial, but the 11661x generation also started a trail of ‘firsts’ for the collection. For instance, the Cerachrom bezel, Super case, Chromalight display, Glidelock clasp and solid-link bracelet.
Here are the key design details of the iconic Submariner ‘Hulk’
1. Super Case
While Rolex kept the case size 40mm for the Ref. 116610LV, like all of the other Submariner Date models before it, the shape of the case was redesigned. It was now a ‘Super Case’, characterised by a heftier profile, a wider bezel, fatter lugs and a thicker crown guard. This is why the Hulk wears larger despite the 40mm measurement and offers a significant wrist presence.
The Rolex Submariner 116610LV has a stainless steel case and is water resistant to 300 metres due to its Triplock screw-down winding crown and solid screw-down case back.
2. Dial
The green dial is one of the main distinguishing features of the Submariner’ Hulk’. It’s the first and only Submariner to feature a green dial. On the sunburst green background are applied indexes with luminous white gold surrounds, signature Mercedes hands, and a date window at 3 o’clock. Rolex uses Chromalight as its luminous material.
The dial face remains protected by the scratch-resistant sapphire crystal, which, as an anti-counterfeit measure, is etched with a small crown at 6 o’clock.
3. Bezel
Ditching the aluminium inlay of the previous models, Rolex started using its proprietary Cerachrom material, starting from the Submariner Date ‘Hulk’ 116610LV. Unlike the older style that eventually used to fade, the corrosion-resistant Cerachrom green bezel of the Hulk remains lustrous as ever, no matter the life it leads. The green bezel is then coated with platinum via PVD, leaving platinum markings and a fantastic shiny finish behind. It has knurled edges, allowing it to be turned easily when wearing gloves.
The green Cerachrom unidirectional bezel of the Submariner ‘Hulk’ makes it a striking luxury dive watch that combines functionality and elegance.
4. Bracelet
Rather than the standard three-link Oyster bracelet, the ‘Hulk’ comes with a refined version. It boasts solid end links, solid centre links, and a robust Oysterlock clasp, complete with a Glidelock extension system for added versatility. With this mechanism, the wearer can quickly adjust the bracelet length by up to 20mm in 2mm steps, all without requiring any tools.
5. Movement
Powering the Submariner Date 116610LV’ Hulk’ is the COSC-Certified Calibre 3135, outfitted with the brand’s Parachrom hairspring, making the watch antimagnetic and shock-resistant. In addition to the hour, minute, and seconds function, the 3135 Calibre offers an instant date function with rapid setting and a 48-hour power reserve.
Why do people love the Rolex Submariner ‘Hulk’?
The watch’s unique aesthetic and practicality make it profoundly versatile. The green face is as distinctive as the bezel. Among the numerous Submariner references Rolex has introduced over the past decades, the Hulk is unique and instantly recognisable. It is also the only Submariner model to ever feature a dial matching the brand’s signature colour. Although the Rolex 116610LV was less popular than its all-black counterpart, it became far more in demand than its competitors in the long run. The ‘all-green’ Submariner Ref. 116610LV was already popular during the final years, but its discontinuation earned it a cult status.
Is Buying A Pre-owned Rolex ‘Hulk’ A Wise Choice?
For several reasons, investing in a pre-owned Rolex Submariner’ Hulk’ is one of the best financial decisions. As said, the popularity of the Hulk increased tenfold after it was discontinued in 2020, making it a wise investment choice. Collectors and buyers are willing to pay high premiums for the ‘Hulk’ due to its low availability and high demand in the market. The watch’s iconic status and enduring popularity ensure you will fetch a high return upon reselling.
However, finding a pre-owned Submariner Hulk is hard, and it will become even more valuable in the future. This means investing in a used Submariner Hulk can be a rewarding choice for anyone looking to add a prestigious timepiece to their collection while also considering the potential for value appreciation over time. If you’re lucky enough to already own one and don’t want to pass it on, you can always sell your Rolex for a lucrative price. This watch actually appreciates in value over time.
END NOTE
The Rolex Submariner’ Hulk’ is a rare find.
From an aesthetic perspective, it’s near perfect, and the incredibly durable steel Super case, Oyster bracelet with Glidelock clasp and green unidirectional Cerachrom bezel ensure it is equally functional. So, it should come as no surprise that collectors, buyers, and enthusiasts alike are obsessed with this legendary watch.
