The Rolex Milgauss was designed in 1956 for the engineers and scientists of CERN, who were exposed to magnetic fields capable of disrupting any mechanical watch. Its name comes from its performance: one thousand gauss, a resistance threshold guaranteed by a ferromagnetic alloy shield enclosing the movement.
Its visual signature is its orange lightning bolt seconds hand, inherited from the first series. Reference 116400GV adds a green-tinted sapphire crystal, unique in the whole of Rolex production, paired with the electric blue Z-Blue dial. The model was withdrawn from the catalogue in 2023, which makes it a collector's piece today. Every piece sold by Francine Joaillerie is authenticated and guaranteed.
| Reference | 116400GV |
|---|---|
| Case | 40 mm Oyster, Oystersteel |
| Crystal | Green-tinted sapphire |
| Dial | Z-Blue or black |
| Calibre | 3131, antimagnetic shield |
| Water resistance | 100 metres |
The removal of the Milgauss from the catalogue in 2023 has inevitably made it scarcer. It is an unusual watch in Rolex production, discreet with its smooth case and singular with its green crystal and orange lightning bolt. Few pieces in fine condition with their complete set are in circulation.
The process used to tint the sapphire has never been disclosed by Rolex and has only been used on this reference. It gives a green edge visible around the crystal depending on the angle.
Yes, the movement is enclosed in a ferromagnetic alloy cage that deflects the fields. Protection is guaranteed up to 1 000 gauss.
The model rarely comes up. Tell us what you are looking for, specifying the dial you want: we will let you know as soon as a piece comes into stock.
