Replica Rolex Submariner 116610LV Rubber Strap Review: A Classic Green Dial with a Sportier Look

Among Rolex sports watches, the Submariner 116610LV is one of the most recognizable models. Its green ceramic bezel and green sunburst dial earned it the popular nicknames “Hulk” and “Green Submariner.” Produced between 2010 and 2020, the model became increasingly desirable in the pre-owned market after it was discontinued.

An authentic Rolex 116610LV features a 40 mm stainless-steel case, a green ceramic rotating bezel, and the Rolex Calibre 3135 automatic movement. Its official configuration includes an Oystersteel bracelet rather than a rubber strap.

The term “rubber strap version” usually refers to a watch that has been fitted with an aftermarket rubber strap. This modification can make the Hulk look younger, lighter, and more casual. However, buyers must clearly distinguish between the authenticity of the watch itself, the origin of the rubber strap, and the authenticity of any additional steel bracelet included in the sale.

Exterior Design: More Than Just a Bright Green Watch

The most obvious feature of the 116610LV is its green color scheme. Its sunburst dial changes noticeably under different lighting conditions. Indoors, the dial may appear darker and more restrained, while direct sunlight reveals a brighter metallic green finish.

Compared with the black Submariner, the Hulk has a stronger visual presence. However, it still maintains the robust and functional character associated with the Submariner collection.

The 40 mm case is suitable for many male wrist sizes. Although the diameter is not especially large by modern standards, the wide lugs, crown guards, and solid case construction give the watch a substantial appearance on the wrist.

Other recognizable details include the sapphire crystal, date display, Cyclops magnifying lens, and unidirectional rotating bezel. These elements preserve the functional design language of a traditional professional diving watch.

The green Cerachrom ceramic bezel offers good scratch resistance and retains its shine better than older aluminum inserts. The watch was originally rated for water resistance to 300 meters. However, buyers of a pre-owned model should not rely entirely on the original factory specification. A pressure and waterproofing test is recommended before swimming or diving with the watch.

The Appeal of a Rubber Strap: Less Weight and a Sportier Character

Replacing the Oyster bracelet with a rubber strap creates one of the most noticeable changes in the wearing experience. The original steel bracelet is durable, substantial, and closely associated with the classic Rolex design. A rubber strap, by contrast, feels softer and lighter, especially during warm weather, exercise, travel, or casual activities.

A black rubber strap can balance the bright green dial and bezel, creating a more modern and layered appearance. A green rubber strap produces a stronger monochromatic effect, although it may be more difficult to coordinate with everyday clothing.

In my opinion, black or dark gray is the most practical choice. These colors allow the green dial to remain the visual focus without making the overall design look excessively bright.

Buyers should remember that most rubber straps are third-party accessories. They may improve comfort and provide a new style, but they do not automatically increase the collectible value of the watch.

For buyers who care about originality, future resale potential, or long-term collectability, the original Oyster bracelet, clasp, box, warranty card, and service documents remain far more important than an aftermarket strap.

Movement and Daily Wearing Experience

The Rolex 116610LV is powered by the Calibre 3135 automatic mechanical movement, offering a power reserve of approximately 48 hours. The Calibre 3135 was used by Rolex for many years and is widely known for its mature construction, reliability, and relatively convenient long-term servicing.

In everyday use, the winding efficiency is strong, the date display is easy to read, and the screw-down crown is straightforward to operate. A well-maintained watch can be suitable for commuting, business occasions, weekend wear, and outdoor activities.

However, the actual accuracy of a pre-owned mechanical watch depends on several factors, including its service history, exposure to magnetic fields, previous wearing habits, moisture resistance, and internal component wear. A clean exterior does not necessarily mean the movement is in excellent condition.

Changing to a rubber strap can also affect the balance of the watch. A thin, poorly fitted, or low-quality strap may make the watch feel top-heavy. Buyers should evaluate not only the color of the strap but also its thickness, flexibility, connector accuracy, durability, and clasp security.

Price Analysis: Discontinued Status Creates Demand, but Prices Still Fluctuate

Because the Rolex 116610LV has been discontinued, its current value is mainly determined by the pre-owned market.

As of July 2026, online market estimates placed the value of the model at approximately USD 18,681, or about RMB 126,600 based on the exchange rate available on July 13, 2026. Other marketplace reference prices were around USD 20,500, while newer examples with complete accessories were sometimes listed above USD 23,000.

These figures should only be treated as market references. The actual transaction price depends on the production year, overall condition, case polishing, bracelet length, warranty card, service history, seller reputation, and completeness of the original accessories.

The rubber strap itself is generally not the main source of value. The authenticity, originality, condition, and provenance of the watch remain the most important factors.

Buyers should be cautious when encountering terms such as “V7 version,” “super clone,” “1:1 edition,” or “original quality.” These are not official Rolex grading standards and should never be confused with an authentic Rolex watch or a Rolex Certified Pre-Owned product.

A price that is far below the normal market range is a serious warning sign, especially when the seller focuses heavily on claims such as “free original bracelet” or “latest upgraded version.”

Who Is the Rolex 116610LV Suitable For?

The Rolex Hulk is suitable for buyers who appreciate highly recognizable sports watches and are comfortable wearing a strong green color. It is especially appealing to collectors who already own black-, blue-, or white-dial watches and want something more distinctive.

A rubber strap configuration may suit younger buyers, sports enthusiasts, frequent travelers, and people who usually wear casual clothing. The lighter and softer wearing experience can make the watch more comfortable in relaxed settings.

Buyers who prefer traditional Rolex styling, long-term collectability, or stronger resale potential should keep the original Oyster bracelet. The rubber strap can be used as an optional accessory rather than a permanent replacement.

People considering the watch mainly as an investment should remain cautious. Prices for pre-owned luxury watches can change according to economic conditions, collector demand, supply levels, and broader market sentiment. Previous price increases do not guarantee future returns.

Purchasing Advice: Examine the Watch, Not the Promotional Gifts

When purchasing a Rolex 116610LV, the first priority should be choosing a professional seller that offers authenticity guarantees, transparent transaction records, clear condition reports, and a reasonable return policy.

Do not allow marketing phrases such as “free original steel bracelet,” “limited rubber strap edition,” or “upgraded version” to distract from the condition and authenticity of the watch itself.

Any supposedly original steel bracelet should be inspected separately. Authentic Rolex bracelets have considerable value and cannot be verified solely through appearance, packaging, photographs, or verbal promises from the seller.

A safer approach is to have the watch and bracelet examined through a Rolex service channel, a reputable authorized retail network, or a qualified independent watch authentication specialist.

Buyers should also inspect whether the case has been over-polished, whether the bezel rotates correctly, whether the luminous material appears consistent, and whether the movement keeps stable time. The serial information, warranty card, service documents, and production details should not contain obvious inconsistencies.

For a rubber strap modification, examine the lugs carefully. Frequent strap replacement or careless installation may leave deep scratches or damage around the spring-bar areas.

It is also advisable to request timegrapher results, waterproofing test records, movement photographs when available, and a written description of replaced or repaired components.

Final Verdict

The Rolex Submariner 116610LV is a distinctive and widely recognized sports watch with a mature movement, classic diving-watch construction, and strong demand in the secondary market.

A rubber strap can improve comfort and give the watch a fresher, more casual personality. However, it should be viewed as an alternative wearing option rather than proof of authenticity or additional collectible value.

The original Oyster bracelet remains important for completeness, resale, and long-term ownership. Buyers should focus their budget on reliable provenance, authentic components, mechanical condition, complete accessories, and professional authentication.

When evaluating a watch described as a “V7 version,” buyers should understand that this is not an official Rolex designation. Choosing a properly authenticated pre-owned Rolex is far more important than pursuing unofficial version labels or promotional accessory packages.

Market prices change according to condition, accessories, supply, and demand. Any published price should therefore be presented as a reference rather than a guaranteed transaction value. A final purchase decision should only be made after professional authentication and a complete inspection of the watch.