Dive into the enthralling journey of the Rolex Milgauss, a timepiece that has captivated enthusiasts and scientists alike since its debut in 1956. Known for its unparalleled resistance to magnetism, the Milgauss story is as innovative as it is fascinating. With a name that reflects its prowess—merging the French ‘mille’ for thousand with ‘gauss,’ the unit of magnetic field strength—the Milgauss stands as a testament to Rolex’s commitment to precision and durability in the face of magnetic forces.
From its inception, validated by the esteemed CERN, to its evolution and eventual revival in 2007, the Milgauss has seen various iterations, each bringing something unique. Whether it was the original’s distinctive honeycomb dial or the modern versions’ sleek aesthetics, the Milgauss has always been a symbol of Rolex’s innovative spirit.
However, in a surprising turn of events, Rolex announced the discontinuation of the Milgauss watches in 2023, marking the end of an era for this iconic model. Despite this, Milgauss’s legacy as a pioneer in antimagnetic technology remains untouched.
In this feature, we’ll explore the rich history of the Milgauss, from its groundbreaking debut to its triumphant return, and the various models that have left an indelible mark on Rolex’s storied past. Join us as we delve into the current models and watch details, including prices, celebrating the enduring allure of the Milgauss. This watch has, for decades, been at the forefront of style and scientific innovation.
The Evolution of the Milgauss
The initial Milgauss model featured a distinctive Oyster case with a unique honeycomb-patterned dial, brightly colored MILGAUSS lettering, and an iconic lightning bolt-shaped seconds hand, setting it apart from its contemporaries.
However, the subsequent Reference 1019 model, launched in the 1960s, sported a more subdued design with its thin hour markers and simplified hands, deviating from the original’s bold aesthetics. Despite its high quality, the 1019 didn’t achieve widespread popularity and was discontinued in 1988, making it a rare find today, often fetching over $25,000 in collector circles.
The Milgauss’s Triumphant Return
In 2007, Rolex breathed new life into the Milgauss, drawing inspiration from its predecessors to create a modern classic. This revival introduced a sleek polished bezel, robust hour markers, and the return of the lightning bolt seconds hand, now in vivid orange.
With the reintroduction, Rolex also unveiled a special ‘Anniversary’ edition featuring a green-tinted crystal, dubbed the Glace Verte (GV), alongside standard black and white dial versions. However, the latter two were eventually phased out.
Advancements in technology have further enhanced the Milgauss, equipping it with a Parachrom-Blu hairspring for even more excellent resistance to magnetism and shocks. This innovation means the watch is slightly thicker than other Rolex models, a small compromise for its unique capabilities.
Z-Blue: A Colorful Twist
In 2014, Rolex introduced the Z-Blue variant—a striking combination of a metallic blue dial and a green crystal. This model retains the signature orange accents while offering a dynamic play of color that changes with the light and viewing angle, a feature not seen in any other Rolex watch.
Technical Prowess and Availability
Like all Oyster Perpetual watches, the Milgauss is water-resistant up to 100m and boasts antimagnetic properties exceeding its 1,000 gauss rating, thanks to Rolex’s meticulous testing and innovative materials. The watch is powered by Rolex’s in-house Caliber 3131 movement, ensuring precision and reliability. Its rarity and functional elegance make the Milgauss a standout in luxury timepieces.
The Closure of a Chapter: Milgauss Models Discontinued
The iconic green-crystal black dial (116400GV) and the acclaimed Z-Blue dial model have been officially discontinued in 2023. This decision marks a significant moment for the Rolex Milgauss collection, leaving enthusiasts pondering the future of these beloved timepieces.
Where can I buy Milgauss Models?
Rolex has discontinued the Milgauss models, but you can still find them through various secondary watch dealers and marketplaces.
How Much Should I Pay?
Purchasing a used Milgauss watch is similar to buying any Rolex. Knowing the seller is essential, as buying secondhand comes with risks. The price of a Milgauss watch will vary depending on its condition and the completeness of its accessories, including the original box, papers, and all links.
To find the latest prices for Rolex Milgauss watches, it is recommended that you use Google.com, Watchrecon.com, or Ebay.com. Searching for the specific model and comparing similar listings allows potential buyers to view these watches’ current availability and pricing.
Will the Rolex Milgauss Retain Its Value?
The Rolex Milgauss is a significant addition for those looking to invest in Rolex watches. Given its ceased production, its value is expected to increase over time, making it increasingly valuable for collectors.
In Conclusion
The Rolex Milgauss’s journey from its debut to its discontinuation in 2023 is a testament to its innovation and style. Despite no longer being produced, its legacy as a pioneer in antimagnetic watchmaking remains strong, promising to increase in value for collectors. The story of the Milgauss reflects Rolex’s commitment to excellence and innovation, leaving a lasting impression in the world of horology. With its unique features and historical significance, the Milgauss continues to be sought after in the secondary market, symbolizing a rare and valuable piece for watch enthusiasts and investors alike. The end of its production marks a conclusion and a new chapter for collectors, cementing its place as an iconic timepiece in Rolex’s distinguished history.
