The Milgauss is the result of a direct collaboration between Rolex and Geneva-based CERN - Centre Européen de Recherche Nucléaire (European Organization for Nuclear Research). Their aim was to develop a wristwatch that could withstand intense magnetic fields and thus be worn by the CERN engineers and laboratory workers constantly in highly magnetic environments.

The result was the Milgauss, deriving its name from the Latin “mille” meaning a thousand, and “Gauss” representing the unit measure for magnetism. Accordingly, it could withstand exposure of up to 1000 Gauss with no effect on accuracy, whereas a typical watch movement can only withstand up to 70-90 Gauss. In the early 1960s, the newly introduced Rolex Milgauss reference 1019, like the present lot, replaced the original two versions: references 6541 and 6543. Significantly thinner than its predecessors, it was manufactured until 1990 and was available only in stainless steel.

An extremely niche tool watch, the Milgauss was never a commercial success and consequently production numbers were low. The present watch is fitted with a flawless, black matte dial that permits the desirable red “Milgauss” text at 12 o’clock to stand out. Furthermore, the present watch is preserved in outstanding condition with sharp bevels and crisp edges. Furthermore, the luminous material on the hands and hour markers are all original, having aged evenly to a wonderful ivory tone.