The Rolex Milgauss, with its distinctive orange lightning bolt seconds hand and robust anti-magnetic capabilities, occupies a unique niche within the prestigious Rolex universe. While not as widely recognized as the Submariner or Daytona, its dedicated following appreciates its unconventional design and fascinating history. This article will delve into the captivating world of the Milgauss, exploring its discontinued models, price fluctuations, available options, and its enduring appeal. We'll also address the burning question many collectors have: what happened to certain Milgauss models, and where can you find them today?
A Brief History of the Rolex Milgauss:
First introduced in 1956, the Milgauss was designed for scientists and researchers working in environments with strong magnetic fields. The name itself is a combination of "mille" (thousand) and "gauss," a unit of magnetic flux density. This reflects its remarkable ability to withstand magnetic fields of up to 1,000 gauss, a significant feat for a mechanical watch at the time. This anti-magnetic protection was achieved through a soft iron inner shield surrounding the movement, effectively deflecting magnetic interference. This innovation, coupled with its distinctive design elements, cemented its place as a highly specialized and sought-after timepiece.
Rolex Milgauss Models: A Timeline of Evolution
The Milgauss's journey has seen several iterations, each with its unique characteristics and collector appeal. Understanding these variations is crucial for anyone navigating the world of Milgauss ownership or investment.
* The 6541 (1956-1960s): This is the original Milgauss, often considered the holy grail by collectors. Its understated elegance, combined with its historical significance, makes it incredibly rare and highly valuable. Identifying features include the distinctive "3-6-9" dial configuration and a simpler, less prominent case.
* The 1019 (1960s): This model saw some minor design changes, though it retained the core anti-magnetic properties and the 3-6-9 dial.
* The 116800 (2007-Present): This is the current generation Milgauss, marking a significant departure from its predecessors. This model introduced the iconic orange lightning bolt seconds hand, a bolder, more contemporary aesthetic, and a sapphire crystal for enhanced scratch resistance. Variations within this generation include different dial colors (black, Z-blue) and bezel materials.
* The Rolex Milgauss GV (Discontinued): The GV, or "Green Version," was a highly sought-after variant of the 116800, featuring a striking green sapphire crystal and a matching green-toned dial. Its limited production run and striking appearance contributed to its high demand and subsequent price appreciation.
Rolex Milgauss Discontinued: What Happened?
The discontinuation of specific Milgauss models, particularly the GV, often sparks intense speculation within the collector community. Rolex, famously secretive about its production decisions, rarely provides official explanations. However, the discontinuation can often be attributed to a combination of factors:
* Production Limitations: Certain models, like the GV, might have had limited production runs due to material availability, manufacturing complexities, or simply strategic decisions by Rolex.
* Market Demand: While the GV was highly popular, Rolex may have decided to discontinue it to maintain exclusivity and encourage demand for other models.
* Design Evolution: Rolex's continuous pursuit of innovation often leads to the phasing out of older models to make way for newer designs and technologies.
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