The history of this Rolex Milgauss
In 1956, Rolex responded to a specific request from the scientific community. An ordinary mechanical watch loses its accuracy at levels of 50 to 100 gauss, whilst researchers work in the presence of far more intense magnetic fields. The company designed a watch capable of withstanding 1,000 gauss – the unit used to measure magnetic fields – hence its name, Milgauss. It became the watch of choice for scientists at CERN in Geneva. The lightning-shaped seconds hand, already featured on this first model, serves as a reminder of this purpose. In 2007, Rolex relaunched the collection with the Milgauss 116400GV, whose green sapphire crystal was a first in watchmaking, hence the letters GV for ‘Glace Verte’ (Green Crystal). Discontinued in 2023, this pre-owned Rolex Milgauss brings to a close a distinctive line within the Oyster range.
Case, movement and bracelet of this Milgauss
The 40 mm Oyster case is crafted from Oystersteel, with a monobloc middle section, a smooth, polished bezel, a Twinlock screw-down crown and a fluted screw-down caseback engraved with ‘ROLEX OYSTER’ and ‘MILGAUSS’. It is water-resistant to 100 metres. Beneath the green sapphire crystal, the black dial features luminescent hour markers, an orange-numeric minute track and a flange engraved with ‘ROLEX’. Inside, a shield made of ferromagnetic alloys surrounds the movement. It is engraved with the symbol for magnetic flux density – a capital ‘B’ accompanied by an arrow – which only Rolex-approved watchmakers will be able to see. The in-house calibre 3131 beats at 28,800 vibrations per hour on 31 jewels and offers a power reserve of approximately 48 hours. Its paramagnetic blue Parachrom hairspring and nickel-phosphorus escape wheel provide further protection. Certified as a Superlative Chronometer, it maintains an accuracy of -2 to +2 seconds per day after being fitted. The three-piece Oyster bracelet with flat links fastens with an Oysterclasp folding clasp.
Why this Rolex watch
The Milgauss has no successor in the catalogue, and the second-hand market remains the only way to acquire one. This version with a black dial is the model launched in 2007, which is more understated than the electric blue dial introduced subsequently. Its magnetic protection remains a practical feature today, given our constant exposure to mobile phones, laptops and magnetic clasps. The smooth 40 mm case, without a rotating bezel or date display, allows the green ring on the crystal to take centre stage and slips easily under a cuff. With its 2020 warranty card, this example dates from the final years of production for this reference.
Contents and condition
The watch comes with its green Rolex presentation box, its outer box, its outer cardboard box, its warranty card dated October 2020 in its green leather card holder, its booklet and its green ‘Superlative Chronometer’ seal. It has been worn with care. A few micro-scratches on the case and clasp, visible only up close, are the only signs of wear, and the case retains its sharp edges. The set is complete, right down to the original seal.
Warranty and delivery
The Swiss Collector guarantees the authenticity of this watch, which is covered by a 24-month warranty. We accept returns within 10 days in accordance with our terms and conditions. As Switzerland’s leading second-hand retailer, backed by the largest network of shops, we offer online booking for a fitting and collection in-store, or fully secure international delivery.
* Very good condition – watch has been worn. Slight signs of external wear. Case and strap in excellent overall condition.
