While the association between Rolex and Comex is widely known and well-documented, the connection between Rolex and the Geneva-based nuclear research organization, CERN (Centre Européen de Recherche Nucléaire), is more discreet. Since the 1950s, the Milgauss lineup was specifically designed for CERN engineers and laboratory workers with the aim of creating a timepiece that could withstand strong magnetic fields.
In 1960, the ref. 1019 was introduced as the successor to the references 6541 and 6543. It enjoyed a relatively long production run of 28 years, making it one of the enduring models in the Rolex lineup. While this Milgauss retained its inner Faraday Cage to protect the movement from electromagnetic waves, the design also underwent a fresh and modern update, featuring a smooth bezel and a modified dial layout.
However, this particular example of the ref. 1019 takes things a step further with a highly unusual and distinctive appeal. In very limited quantities, some models were fitted with black inserts on the hour markers and hands instead of the usual luminescent material. This configuration, known as a "CERN" dial, is believed to have been created in collaboration with CERN and designed without tritium luminescence. This choice was made to avoid interference with sensitive radioactivity sensors in laboratory environments, making it a true “tool watch” in the Rolex watchmaking history.