The Rolex Submariner 116610LV, affectionately nicknamed the "Hulk" due to its vibrant green bezel, has cemented its place in horological history as a highly sought-after and collectible timepiece. Its striking appearance, robust build, and association with Rolex's legendary diving heritage have propelled it to iconic status within the watch community. This article delves into the world of the Rolex Hulk, exploring its history, features, market value, and future prospects, addressing common questions surrounding its discontinuation, price predictions, and current market trends.
A Brief History: Beyond the Hulk's Green Bezel
While the "Hulk" moniker is synonymous with the 116610LV, understanding its lineage requires looking back at Rolex's long-standing relationship with professional diving. From 1970 onwards, the French diving company COMEX (Compagnie Maritime d'Expertises) received a special version of the Rolex Submariner 5513, featuring modifications tailored to their extreme underwater operations. These included specific helium escape valves and other enhancements, highlighting the watch's robust capabilities and its role in professional diving environments. These early collaborations laid the groundwork for the development of future professional-grade dive watches, eventually culminating in the creation of the 116610LV. While the COMEX Submariners weren't directly the precursor to the Hulk's aesthetic, they represent a critical part of the legacy of robust, reliable dive watches that influenced its design.
The modern "Hulk" itself, the reference 116610LV, was introduced by Rolex in 2010. Its immediate impact was undeniable. The vibrant green Cerachrom bezel, made from a near-indestructible ceramic material, stood in stark contrast to the traditional black bezel of its Submariner siblings. This bold design choice, combined with the watch's impeccable build quality and the inherent prestige of the Rolex brand, instantly captured the attention of collectors and enthusiasts alike. The green bezel wasn’t merely an aesthetic flourish; it was a testament to Rolex's commitment to innovation and its ability to reinterpret a classic design in a fresh and exciting way.
The Rolex Hulk's Distinctive Features:
The Rolex Hulk's appeal extends beyond its striking green bezel. Several key features contribute to its desirability:
* Oyster Case: The robust Oyster case, a hallmark of Rolex dive watches, provides exceptional water resistance (300 meters/1000 feet) and protection against the elements. Its unidirectional rotating bezel prevents accidental adjustments that could compromise dive time calculations.
* Cerachrom Bezel Insert: The aforementioned Cerachrom bezel insert is highly resistant to scratches and fading, ensuring the vibrant green color remains true over time. This ceramic material is a testament to Rolex's commitment to durability and longevity.
* Caliber 3135 Movement: The Hulk is powered by the self-winding Caliber 3135 movement, a highly reliable and accurate mechanical movement known for its robustness and precision. This movement is a workhorse within the Rolex lineup, renowned for its dependability.
* Oyster Bracelet: The Oyster bracelet, with its solid links and comfortable clasp, provides a secure and comfortable fit on the wrist. The bracelet's durability reflects the overall robustness of the watch.
* Superluminova Luminescence: The hands and hour markers are filled with Superluminova, providing excellent visibility in low-light conditions, a crucial feature for a dive watch.
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