The Rolex Submariner 116610LV, affectionately nicknamed the "Hulk" for its vibrant green bezel and dial, holds a special place in the hearts of watch enthusiasts. Its striking appearance, robust build, and association with Rolex's legendary Submariner lineage made it a highly sought-after timepiece. However, the question remains: when did this iconic watch officially leave the Rolex lineup? Understanding the discontinuation of the Hulk requires exploring its history, its popularity, the reasons behind Rolex's decision, and the subsequent impact on the market.
The Rise and Fall (and Rise Again?) of the Green Giant:
The Rolex Hulk, launched in 2010, wasn't an immediate sensation like some other Rolex models. Its initial reception was positive, but it wasn't the runaway success it later became. Over time, the Hulk's unique green ceramic bezel, a significant technological advancement for Rolex at the time, coupled with the inherent desirability of the Submariner, propelled it to iconic status. The vibrant green became synonymous with the watch, and its bold aesthetic resonated with collectors and enthusiasts alike. Its popularity grew steadily, eventually surpassing even the expectations of Rolex themselves. This burgeoning demand, however, ultimately led to its discontinuation.
Rolex Hulk Discontinued 2020: The Official End (For Now)?
While there wasn't a formal press release announcing the Hulk's discontinuation, its absence from Rolex's official catalog in 2020 effectively signaled the end of its production run. This wasn't a sudden decision; it was a gradual phasing out. Towards the end of its production, acquiring a new Hulk became increasingly challenging, with long waiting lists and limited availability at authorized dealers. This scarcity, of course, only fueled the watch's desirability and inflated its value in the pre-owned market. The year 2020 is generally accepted as the year the 116610LV was officially discontinued.
Why Was the Rolex Hulk Discontinued?
The reasons behind Rolex's decision to discontinue the Hulk are multifaceted and largely speculative, as Rolex rarely provides public explanations for such choices. However, several factors likely contributed:
* Material Constraints: The production of the green Cerachrom bezel was likely a complex and resource-intensive process. Rolex may have decided to streamline production by focusing on other models or variations within their lineup. This is especially plausible considering the introduction of the newer generation of Submariners.
* Market Saturation: The immense popularity of the Hulk could have led to a degree of market saturation. While high demand existed, Rolex might have strategically decided to discontinue the model to maintain exclusivity and desirability for its other offerings. This controlled scarcity is a well-known strategy among luxury brands.
* Refocusing on New Models: Rolex is constantly innovating and introducing new models and variations. Discontinuing the Hulk could have been part of a broader strategy to make room for newer releases and technological advancements. The introduction of the new generation Submariner models with updated movements and features supports this theory.
* Supply Chain Issues: The global pandemic and subsequent supply chain disruptions in 2020 could have played a role. While not the primary reason, it likely added complexity to the manufacturing and distribution process, potentially influencing Rolex's decision.
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