The Rolex Submariner "Hulk," reference 116610LV, holds a special place in the hearts of watch enthusiasts. Its vibrant green bezel and iconic design made it a highly sought-after timepiece, driving intense demand and creating a legendary status within the Rolex community. However, this beloved model’s production journey eventually came to an end. Understanding *when* the Rolex Hulk was discontinued requires delving into the broader context of Rolex's Submariner line updates and the reasons behind the discontinuation.
Rolex 116610LV Hulk Discontinued: The End of an Era
The official discontinuation of the Rolex Submariner 116610LV, commonly known as the "Hulk," occurred in 2020. This wasn't a sudden announcement; it was part of a larger strategic shift by Rolex in their Submariner collection. While Rolex rarely makes public statements about discontinuations, the absence of the 116610LV from their official catalog and the introduction of new models confirmed its end of production. The year 2020 marked a significant turning point for the Submariner line, signaling a transition to a new generation of watches.
Rolex Submariner Ref 116610LV: A Closer Look at the Hulk
Before exploring the reasons behind the discontinuation, let's briefly appreciate the Rolex Submariner ref 116610LV. This particular model, introduced in 2010, stood out due to its striking green Cerachrom bezel insert. This ceramic insert, a hallmark of modern Rolex sports watches, offered superior scratch resistance compared to its aluminum predecessors. The vibrant green perfectly complemented the watch's overall aesthetic, creating a bold and instantly recognizable design. The 40mm Oyster case, paired with the robust Oyster bracelet, provided both comfort and durability, making the Hulk suitable for both everyday wear and demanding underwater activities. The Calibre 3135, a highly reliable and accurate automatic movement, powered this iconic timepiece, ensuring consistent performance. Its popularity stemmed not only from its vibrant color but also from its impeccable build quality, reliability, and the prestige associated with the Rolex brand.
Why Did Rolex Discontinue the Hulk? The 41mm Upgrade and More
The discontinuation wasn't about a lack of popularity; the Hulk was, and remains, highly sought after in the pre-owned market. The primary reason behind its discontinuation lies in Rolex's decision to revamp its entire Submariner line in 2020. This update brought about several key changes, the most significant being the increase in case size from 40mm to 41mm. This subtle yet impactful change affected the entire Submariner range, including the Hulk's successor.
The 1mm increase might seem insignificant, but it allowed Rolex to make internal improvements to the movement and overall design. While the exact reasons remain undisclosed by Rolex, it's likely this change provided opportunities for enhanced functionality, improved ergonomics, and potentially greater water resistance. The 41mm case offered more space for internal components, potentially contributing to better shock absorption and overall robustness.
Furthermore, the 2020 Submariner models also incorporated other subtle refinements. These could include alterations to the bracelet, clasp, or even minor adjustments to the dial. These changes, while not always immediately apparent, reflected Rolex's ongoing commitment to continuous improvement and innovation. The updated models maintain the classic Submariner design language while incorporating modern advancements in materials and manufacturing techniques.
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