Rolex Milgauss: history and curiosities about this antimagnetic watch

As we approach our upcoming auction, Auction 9 – Salmoiraghi Collection, set to take place on Sunday, March 23, 2025, we dedicate this article to the history of the Rolex Milgauss.

This exceptional timepiece will be available in four different lots of our auction, showcasing various configurations and periods.

Legend has it that CERN scientists (European Organization for Nuclear Research) once directly contacted Rolex to request a watch they could safely wear while attempting to uncover the universe’s secrets inside Geneva’s renowned high-energy particle accelerator.

There is no concrete evidence to support this claim, it may just be a mythical story.

Milgauss Reference 6543

What we do know for certain is that the first Rolex Milgauss, Reference 6543, was introduced in 1955. The name derives from mille (one thousand) and gauss, the unit of measurement for magnetic fields.

Designed exclusively in stainless steel, the Milgauss was created to meet the needs of scientists working in environments exposed to high magnetic fields.

Among the key features of the Ref. 6543 there are the honeycomb dial, the red “Milgauss” inscription and the unusual 19.5mm lug width (only allowing a leather strap, not a metal bracelet).

For what concerns the movement, the Milgauss 6543 was equipped with calibers 1065M, 1066M, and 1080, which were updated over the years. Another distinctive feature was its plexiglass crystal.

Production period: 1955–1957

Milgauss Reference 6541

Following the 6543, Rolex introduced the Milgauss 6541, now regarded as one of the rarest versions of the model.

Produced for only a few years, some overlapping with the previous reference, the 6541 featured a significant innovation: an “antimagnetic” bell, an additional inner caseback made of non-conductive metal, further protecting the movement.

Another distinguishing element was its lightning bolt-shaped seconds hand, which made the watch earn the nickname “Saettone” (Italian for “big lightning”) among collectors.

Unlike the 6543, some versions of the 6541 were fitted with a metal bracelet (7206 and 6636 with 80 end links).

Production period: 1956–1962

Milgauss Reference 1019

In 1963, Rolex introduced Reference 1019, a model that departed significantly from the original Milgauss design. Though production was limited, numerous modifications were made throughout its run.

Among the innovations introduced, the dial was available in two options: silver and black, both featuring the “MILGAUSS” inscription below the 12 o’clock position.

The silver dial version was particularly well-suited for CERN scientists since it lacked luminous markers and hands, reducing interference with sensitive experiments, and had the caliber 1570, updated steel bracelets over the years (7206, 7836, 78360, 6636), and a plexiglass crystal.

Despite low commercial success, the Milgauss 1019 remained in production for 25 years, making it one of Rolex’s most specialized models.

Production period: 1963–1988

In our Auction 9 – Salmoiraghi Collection, the two versions of this reference (silver and black dial) are on sale (Lot 6 and Lot 7)

Rolex stopped the Milgauss production

In 1988, Rolex realized that professional tool watches were rarely worn outside their intended environments. With demand for the Milgauss at an all-time low, the company decided to discontinue production.

The Milgauss revival

In 2007, Rolex revived the model with the introduction of Reference 116400, caracterised by a caliber 3131 with PARACHROM hairspring, a 40mm case, a caseback engraved with “ROLEX OYSTER” and “MILGAUSS” alongside the Rolex coronet.

Among the new features we have to mention the polished finish, the sapphire crystal and black and white dial options (both on sale in our Auction 9 – Salmoiraghi Collection, Lot 4 and Lot 5), paired with the iconic orange lightning bolt seconds hand, paying homage to the 6541.

Production period: 2007–2008

Rolex Milgauss GV

In 2008, Rolex unveiled the Milgauss 116400GV, the “anniversary edition,” distinguished by a green-tinted sapphire crystal and a new electric blue dial (in addition to the black dial).

Yet, much like in 1988, demand remained low, leading Rolex to officially discontinue the Milgauss in 2023.

The Rolex Milgauss stands as one of the most unique and specialized watches ever produced by the Swiss brand. Designed to combat the effects of magnetism on watch movements, it embodies decades of research and technical innovation.

Unfortunately, history shows that only a small niche of users fully appreciated and utilized its groundbreaking functionality. However, it remains one of the most iconic Rolex models ever made.

See also:

• Auction 9 – Salmoiraghi Collection catalogue
• The article about the Patek Philippe Nautilus