In 2003, Rolex marked the 50th anniversary of its iconic Submariner by releasing a model affectionately known as the “Kermit.” With its distinctive green bezel, the Kermit quickly became a fan favorite. Fast-forward to 2010, and Rolex once again surprised the watch world by unveiling an evolution of the Kermit—the Rolex Submariner ref. 116610LV, better known as the “Rolex Hulk Submariner.”

Hulk vs. Kermit

While the Rolex Hulk Submariner shares the Kermit’s green bezel, that’s where the similarities end. The Hulk is part of a new generation of Submariners, featuring a “super case” that is more angular and robust than the classic Submariner design. This updated case gives the Hulk a bolder wrist presence, earning it the fitting nickname. Rolex also equipped the Hulk with a maxi dial, which features larger hour markers, further enhancing its strong visual impact.

But the real showstopper is the color. Unlike the Kermit, which pairs a green bezel with a black dial, the Hulk sports a green sunray dial—an unusual and mesmerizing choice for a steel Submariner. This dual-green design makes the Hulk stand out in any crowd, with the sunray dial’s deep green contrasting beautifully against the large white hour markers, offering exceptional legibility. Staying true to its dive watch heritage, the Rolex Hulk Submariner’s dial elements are filled with blue Chromalight luminescence, ensuring visibility even in the darkest conditions. The bezel, crafted from Rolex’s durable Cerachrom material, features platinum-filled numbers, making it both bold and easy to read.

What is Cerachrom?

If you’re new to the world of Rolex, you might be wondering, “What is Cerachrom?” Introduced by Rolex in 2005, Cerachrom is a blend of ceramic and color (“chrom” meaning color in Greek). This proprietary ceramic material is created using extreme heat, allowing it to be molded into the desired shape. The color is added early in the process, ensuring a rich, deep hue that remains vibrant for years to come. Once the bezel is formed, the numbers are filled with either gold or platinum to enhance legibility and add a touch of luxury.

The result? An incredibly tough bezel that’s resistant to corrosion, UV rays, and scratches—an upgrade from the Kermit’s aluminum bezel. The Rolex Hulk Submariner’s case, crafted from Rolex’s patented Oystersteel (904L stainless steel), further enhances its durability. This high-quality material is more resistant to corrosion and wear than the 316L steel used in the Kermit.

The Rolex Hulk Submariner’s Features

Inside the robust case of the Rolex Hulk Submariner beats the Rolex Caliber 3135, a self-winding mechanical movement that has achieved chronometer certification. With a 48-hour power reserve, this movement is both reliable and precise, keeping perfect time whether you’re on land or underwater. The Hulk also features Rolex’s EasyLink bracelet adjustment system, allowing wearers to make small adjustments throughout the day for a perfect fit, no matter the conditions.

Speaking of durability, the Rolex Hulk Submariner is almost as tough as its namesake. The Oystersteel case offers enhanced protection against the elements, and the Triplock screw-down crown ensures an impressive water resistance of 300 meters (1,000 feet). The Hulk is equipped with Rolex’s signature three-link Oyster bracelet and the Glidelock extension system, which allows the watch to be worn over a wetsuit sleeve without the need for tools.

How to Buy a Rolex Hulk Submariner

The Rolex Hulk Submariner was produced from 2010 to 2020, giving it a unique sense of rarity. After 2020, Rolex updated all Submariner models to 41mm, making it unlikely that the Hulk’s exact design will be revived. As a result, the Hulk’s value has soared, with prices typically ranging from $23,000 to $26,000 USD on the pre-owned market. If you were fortunate enough to purchase a Hulk at its original retail price of $9,000 in 2010, you’ve seen a significant return on your investment. Who knows how much higher the Rolex Hulk Submariner’s value could climb in the future?

To add a Rolex Hulk Submariner to your collection, you’ll need to turn to the secondary market, as the model is no longer in production. If you manage to snag one, you’ll be in good company—Hollywood and Nashville stars like Mark Wahlberg, Robert Downey Jr., and Sylvester Stallone have all been spotted wearing the Rolex Hulk as part of their impressive collections. Other famous fans include Matt LeBlanc, Mark Sanchez, and legendary guitarist Slash from Guns N’ Roses.

If green is your color, the Rolex Hulk Submariner is a must-have. But even if you usually prefer more traditional timepiece hues, the Hulk offers a perfect opportunity to step outside your comfort zone. With its “beefier” 40mm case, Cerachrom bezel, and unique sunray dial, the Hulk is a timepiece that not only stands out but also delivers in performance. Whether you’re diving into the ocean or navigating the urban jungle, the Rolex Hulk Submariner has the durability and style to keep up with your adventures.