About Rolex Milgauss Watches

The Rolex: Milgauss, also referred to by its full name “The Oyster Perpetual Milgauss,” was developed in 1956 to meet demands that the scientific community specifically faced. The first of its kind, it was created to withstand magnetic fields of up to 1,000 gauss (hence the name mil — 1000, and gauss — the unit of a magnetic field). Such an accomplishment is quite a feat considering most watches are only able to withstand a magnetic field between 50 to 100 gauss. While this is fine for an ordinary person, many scientists are exposed to a far higher range while working.

Rolex noticed the need to build a timepiece designed with this audience in mind and unveiled the Rolex: Milgauss. Such notable organizations such as the Geneva-based European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN) wore the watch, thereby boosting its credibility.

The reason for the piece’s magnetic resistance is the shield within the Oyster case, which is made up of ferromagnetic alloys selected and explicitly developed by Rolex. The magnetic shield protects the watch’s movement, which is a caliber 3131 entirely manufactured by Rolex. The movement is designed for high-precision watches and is incredibly reliable. It successfully passed the Swiss Official Chronometer Testing Institute Tests, making it an officially certified Swiss chronometer.

Rolex developed what is known as “oystersteel,” a combination of alloy used in high technology spaces where the need for maximum resistance to corrosion is essential. The material is highly resistant, maintaining its beauty and impeccable finish even after exposure to chemical or other harsh environments. All Rolex watches, including the Milgauss, are equipped with the brand’s signature Oyster Bracelet. They are guaranteed to possess beauty and technological perfection. Each bracelet faces strict tests to ensure its ideal alchemy.

In comparison to other Rolex models, the Milgauss has a relatively short history. The brand initially released only two models: the original 6541 and the modified 1019. The 1019 was introduced in the 1960s, offering two options, a black and a silver, for the dial. The line was then discontinued in 1988 and was nearly forgotten for the next twenty years. Fortunately, Rolex chose to revisit the line in 2007 and released three new versions all with slight variations.

The contemporary models are complete with new, more advanced technology. These recent models were the first to feature the ferromagnetic shield within the oyster case. They are also equipped with a magnetic alloy Parachrom-Blu hairspring. This detail is minuscule, but it allows the watch extreme shock resistance. The letter “B” is the symbol for magnetic flux density, and it is engraved in the magnetic shield of the Milgauss. Because of its location, only the watchmakers will ever see the symbol.

During the 1960s and 70s, sales of the Milgauss were low. This has made the original piece incredibly rare, and it is highly sought after by collectors. As a result, it is very unique and valuable. In addition, its pure technological innovation and functionality make the watch a highly-regarded timepiece amongst scientists and Rolex aficionados alike.