Exquisite and exceedingly rare, the present watch is not only indisputably a representative of one of the scarcest and finest Rolex models made, it is also probably the best preserved and complete example of a reference 6541 to ever grace the auction market.
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. It might well be one of the scarcest Rolex models as the intended market was indeed extremely restricted.
The present example, created in 1958, is offered in simply spectacular condition and is the best preserved example that Phillips in Association with Bacs & Russo has had the pleasure of offering at auction. Most probably unpolished, it displays all original factory finishes and specifications, from the bevels on the side of the lugs, to the red-tipped bezel, and even the crisp milled edge on the case back. The razor-sharp edges, along with contrasting polished and brushed finishes are undoubtedly original.
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, the present watch is fitted with a wondrously beautiful and exceedingly rare black “Honeycomb” dial, with circular hour markers and faceted triangular indexes at 3, 6, and 9 o’clock. So well preserved is the dial that it doesn't show any visible signs of ageing, with crisp and eye-catching graphics throughout.
To add to the impressive nature of the watch is the plentitude of accessories that accompany the timepiece. It is presented with its Rolex Chronometer Certificate, Guarantee, Milgauss literature, additional chronometer certificate dated June 14, 1960, hang tag and presentation box. To the best of our knowledge, no other reference 6541 as complete as the present example has ever graced the auction market.
To acquire a reference 6541 is a dream for many collectors today. Yet, to discover one preserved in unpolished condition with an immaculate dial, along with a treasure trove of accessories is positively unheard of. It is unimaginable when a white whale of watch collecting comes to the market, and it is with great certainty that another will not appear soon.
