Watches are exposed to special external circumstances in many situations. Diver's and pilot's watches in particular have achieved great popularity, but with the Rolex Milgauss, the Swiss watch manufacturer is tackling yet another problem. This extraordinary watch has been equipped with a protective mechanism to minimise the influence of magnetism.
While most luxury watches today are bought or selected primarily on the basis of their appearance, in earlier decades functionality took centre stage. Water resistance and robustness against external conditions have helped many watches to achieve a high level of recognition. In this context, Rolex has countered another negative influence - magnetism. Even small magnetic fields of less than 100 gauss can significantly impair the functionality of watches.
The history of the Rolex Milgauss
Rolex presented the Milgauss to the general public for the first time in 1954. The target group for this special watch included researchers and people who were frequently exposed to magnetic fields. The name of the watch is made up of the French word for "thousand" (mille) and the unit of measurement Gauss, the unit of magnetic flux density. The Rolex Milgauss was designed for a strength of 1,000 Gauss and could therefore easily withstand even strong magnetic fields.
Properties of the Rolex Milgauss
In addition to its high resistance to magnetic influences, the Rolex Milgauss was water-resistant to 100 metres (10 bar) thanks to a screw-down case back. The 40 mm Oyster case and the three-row Oyster bracelet are typical features of a Rolex Milgauss, which was also highly recognisable thanks to its lightning-shaped second hand and green sapphire crystal.
As demand was limited in the following years, production of this watch was discontinued in 1988. However, this had an effect that is often the case with discontinued collections - demand and the value of the watches skyrocketed. In 2007, Rolex therefore decided to launch a new Milgauss in the style of the original 1954 model. To this day, the Rolex Milgauss has retained the image of an explorer's watch.
Rolex Milgauss price increases due to high-quality workmanship
Rolex and the brand are already synonymous with high-quality workmanship. With this in mind, lovers of the Milgauss can be sure that this is also the case with this series. Thanks to the new generations after 2007, models can be found at an acceptable price, starting at around €7,500. Beautiful variants and models range in price from 8,500 to 13,500 euros.
Vintage models of the Rolex Milgauss in high demand
Watch enthusiasts and collectors naturally have their eye on the vintage editions of the Rolex Milgauss, which were produced before 1988. Vintage models with a white and black dial cost more than €25,000 and the upper limit seems to be completely open. First-generation Rolex Milgauss with the reference number 6541 cost well over 100,000 euros and are extremely rare to find.
The Rolex Milgauss can be purchased second-hand and at favourable prices at zeitauktion.com. The authenticity of the watches, which are offered at an attractive price, has been verified by certified dealers.
