The Rolex Milgauss, a watch synonymous with scientific precision and striking design, holds a unique place in the brand's illustrious history. While not as widely recognized as the Submariner or Daytona, its dedicated following appreciates its quirky character and robust anti-magnetic capabilities. This article delves into the fascinating world of the Milgauss, exploring its history, discontinued models, current market prices, and what makes it such a sought-after timepiece. We'll also address common questions like "What happened to the Rolex Milgauss?" and examine the various models available, both new and pre-owned.
A Brief History: Defying Magnetic Fields
The Rolex Milgauss, first introduced in 1956, was designed for scientists and researchers working in environments with high magnetic fields. This was a significant leap forward in horological technology, as magnetic interference could severely disrupt the accuracy of mechanical watches. Rolex’s engineers tackled this challenge head-on, developing a sophisticated movement capable of withstanding magnetic fields of up to 1,000 gauss – hence the name "Milgauss" (mille meaning thousand in French). This exceptional anti-magnetic protection was achieved through a soft-iron inner case shielding the movement from external magnetic interference.
The original Milgauss, reference 6541, boasted a simple, elegant design. Its understated aesthetic, however, belied its groundbreaking technology. The watch featured a distinctive orange seconds hand, a feature that has become a hallmark of the Milgauss lineage. This first generation was produced until the early 1960s, paving the way for subsequent iterations.
Rolex Milgauss Models: A Timeline of Evolution
Over the decades, Rolex has introduced several variations of the Milgauss, each reflecting the evolution of both watchmaking technology and design aesthetics.
* Reference 6541 (1956-early 1960s): The original Milgauss, featuring a simple dial and the iconic orange seconds hand. These early models are highly collectible and command significant prices on the secondary market.
* Reference 1019 (1960s): This reference saw minor design changes, but retained the core functionality and anti-magnetic properties of its predecessor.
* Reference 116880 (2007-present): This marked a significant revival of the Milgauss after a long absence from the Rolex catalog. This model featured a striking green sapphire crystal, a more modern design language, and the return of the iconic orange seconds hand. The updated movement also offered enhanced anti-magnetic properties. Several variations within this reference exist, including variations in dial color and bracelet options.
* Rolex Milgauss GV (Green Version): Often referred to as the "GV" (Green Version), this is the most widely recognized modern Milgauss. The vibrant green sapphire crystal is a distinctive feature, adding a touch of boldness to the otherwise classic design. This model is highly sought after and often appears on Rolex Milgauss price lists at the higher end of the price spectrum. The discontinuation of this specific model has further increased its desirability amongst collectors.
Rolex Milgauss Discontinued: What Happened to the Rolex Milgauss?
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