The color green evokes a powerful range of emotions and associations – nature, prosperity, envy, and even luck. When applied to the world of horology, and specifically to Rolex, green takes on a special significance. It's a statement, a symbol of heritage, and a testament to the brand's unwavering commitment to innovation. This article delves into the captivating world of Rolex with green, exploring its various iterations, the craftsmanship behind its creation, and its enduring appeal to collectors and enthusiasts alike. From the iconic Submariner "Hulk" to the more recent green-dialed Daytonas and Datejusts, we'll dissect the allure of Rolex's verdant offerings.
Green Dial Craftsmanship: Where High Technology Meets Artistic Precision
The story of Rolex's green dials is not merely about applying a coat of paint. This bold, vivid tone is thanks to exceptional in-house expertise at Rolex, where craftsmanship rhymes with high technology. The brand's mastery of materials and manufacturing processes allows them to achieve a depth and richness of color that sets their green dials apart.
Unlike many watch manufacturers who outsource dial production, Rolex maintains meticulous control over every stage of the process. This vertical integration is crucial to ensuring the consistency and quality that Rolex is renowned for. The exact techniques used to create these captivating green dials are closely guarded secrets, but we can glean insights into the general principles involved.
The creation of a Rolex green dial begins with the selection of the base material, typically brass or gold. The dial blank is then meticulously prepared, often involving multiple polishing and cleaning steps to ensure a perfectly smooth and flawless surface. The application of the green color is where the magic truly happens.
Rolex utilizes various techniques to achieve its signature green hues. One common method involves applying multiple layers of lacquer or enamel to the dial surface. Each layer is carefully applied and then fired in a high-temperature oven, creating a durable and vibrant finish. The number of layers and the precise firing temperature are crucial factors in determining the final shade and texture of the dial.
Another technique involves the use of PVD (Physical Vapor Deposition), a sophisticated process that deposits a thin film of material onto the dial surface in a vacuum chamber. PVD allows for the creation of incredibly precise and uniform coatings, resulting in a consistent and durable green color.
Regardless of the specific technique employed, the creation of a Rolex green dial requires a high degree of skill and precision. Each dial is inspected multiple times throughout the process to ensure that it meets Rolex's exacting standards. Any imperfection, no matter how minor, can result in the dial being rejected. This rigorous quality control is what ensures that every Rolex green dial is a masterpiece of horological artistry.
The Iconic Green Submariners: A History of Verdant Innovation
The Rolex Submariner, a cornerstone of the brand's collection, has a particularly rich history with the color green. The introduction of the "Kermit" in 2003, marking the 50th anniversary of the Submariner, signaled a new era for Rolex.
* The "Kermit" (Ref. 16610LV): This model, featuring a black dial and a striking green aluminum bezel, was a bold departure from the traditional black bezel Submariners. It was instantly recognizable and quickly became a collector's favorite. The vibrant green bezel, a nod to Rolex's corporate color, added a playful and distinctive touch to the iconic Submariner design. Its relative rarity and discontinuation in 2010 have only fueled its desirability in the secondary market.
* The "Hulk" (Ref. 116610LV): Released in 2010, the "Hulk" took the green Submariner concept to a whole new level. This model featured both a green dial and a green ceramic (Cerachrom) bezel. The sunburst finish on the green dial gave it a dynamic and captivating appearance, shifting between various shades of green depending on the angle of the light. The "Hulk" was a polarizing watch upon its release, but its unique and bold aesthetic has made it one of the most sought-after Submariners in recent history. Its discontinuation in 2020 further cemented its status as a modern classic.
* The Current Green Bezel Submariner (Ref. 126610LV): In 2020, Rolex introduced a new generation of Submariners, including a model with a black dial and a green Cerachrom bezel. While the "Hulk" was discontinued, the green bezel Submariner remained a part of the collection, offering a more subtle and versatile take on the green Submariner theme. This model features a slightly redesigned case and a more modern movement, further enhancing its appeal.
Beyond the Submariner: Green Dials Across the Rolex Collectionrolex with green
While the Submariner is perhaps the most well-known Rolex model with green, the brand has also incorporated green dials into other collections, showcasing the versatility and appeal of this vibrant color.