The Rolex Submariner "Hulk," specifically the reference 116610LV, with its iconic green bezel, holds a special place in the hearts of watch enthusiasts. While the name "Hulk" is a nickname bestowed by collectors, it perfectly captures the vibrant, almost aggressive, color of its Cerachrom insert. However, this beloved timepiece is no longer in production, leading to a surge in interest and a complex market dynamic. This article delves into the history of the discontinued 116610LV, explores the reasons behind its discontinuation, examines its current market value, and looks at its successor, the ref. 126610LV, which, confusingly for some, also carries the "Hulk" moniker despite a significant change – a black dial. This creates a fascinating case study in collector's demand and the evolution of an iconic watch.
Rolex Submariner Hulk Discontinued: The End of an Era
The Rolex Submariner ref. 116610LV, affectionately known as the "Hulk," enjoyed a ten-year production run before Rolex officially discontinued it in 2020. This announcement sent ripples through the watch collecting community. The reasons behind the discontinuation remain largely unstated by Rolex, a common practice for the brand. However, several factors likely contributed to the decision:
* Model Refresh: Rolex regularly updates its models, introducing refinements and improvements in design, materials, and movements. The introduction of the 41mm Submariner, ref. 126610LV, signified a significant shift in the Submariner line, updating the case size and movement. This larger case size better reflects modern preferences and allows for improvements in the movement's performance and robustness.
* Inventory Management: Discontinuing a model allows Rolex to streamline its production and manage inventory more efficiently. The discontinuation of the 116610LV likely facilitated a smoother transition to the new 41mm models.
* Market Demand and Saturation: While the Hulk enjoyed immense popularity, its ten-year production run might have led to a degree of market saturation. Discontinuing the model could create artificial scarcity, driving up demand and prices for pre-owned examples. This is a common strategy employed by luxury brands to maintain exclusivity and desirability.
The discontinuation of the Hulk didn't simply mark the end of a model; it marked the end of an era. It represented the culmination of a specific design philosophy and a particular moment in Rolex's history. The sudden unavailability of this coveted timepiece immediately impacted the secondary market, driving prices significantly upwards.
Is the Rolex Hulk Discontinued? The Definitive Answer
Yes, the Rolex Submariner ref. 116610LV (the green bezel, green dial Hulk) is definitively discontinued. Rolex no longer produces it, and any new examples available are likely pre-owned or from unauthorized sources. This fact underscores the importance of purchasing from reputable dealers to ensure authenticity.
Rolex Hulk Submariner for Sale: Navigating the Secondary Market
The secondary market for discontinued Rolex watches, particularly the Hulk, is vibrant and often volatile. Finding a Rolex Hulk Submariner for sale requires careful consideration and due diligence. Here are some key factors to keep in mind:
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