Released in 1956, reference 6541 represents the very first iteration of the Milgauss. The model targeted at a very specific - albeit at the time novel and growing - market: scientists, engineers and technicians working with high magnetic fields in electro-industrial environments or scientific facilities; indeed its iconic “lightning” seconds hand is an obvious nod to electromagnetism. Most impressively, the Milgauss was guaranteed to resist magnetic fields up to 1,000 oersted. The name Milgauss is derived from the Latin word mille, which means 1,000, and gauss, the unit of a magnetic field. The Milgauss overcomes the effects of magnetic fields by using anti-magnetic alloys and an iron movement cover to create a Faraday cage.

This reference 6541, manufactured in 1958, is offered for the first time publicly by an important American collector. The most prominent feature of the watch is its unusual and awe-inspiring seconds hand in the shape of a lightning bolt. Giving the watch an unmistakable appearance is the beautifully preserved and exceedingly rare “Honeycomb” dial that has aged to a stunning and uniform “tropical” brown hue with non-luminous circular hour markers and faceted triangular indexes at 3, 6, and 9 o’clock. The originally red “Milgauss” designation has faded into a light, pale pink. Its case number 412’155 is consistent with other examples of the reference, as most appear to bear a 412’xxx serial number. Fitted with Rolex’s caliber 1066, its bridge features an engraved ‘M’ specific only to the Milgauss model.

Rolex tool watches are an important part of the collecting market, and the Honeycomb Milgauss is one of the rarest models to be found. The reference 6541 was replaced in the mid-1960s by the reference 1019, and this early example 6541 is an appealing and attractive timepiece.