Milgauss

Over time, the Milgauss has remained faithful to its scientific heritage and distinctive aesthetics. With its evocative orange seconds hand shaped like a lightning bolt – inspired by the original model – combined with its clean lines, this watch is recognisable at a glance.

The green crystal marked a first in watchmaking when it was introduced by Rolex on the revamped version of the Milgauss in 2007. It is made of virtually scratchproof synthetic sapphire and ensures optimal legibility.

The Milgauss sports a Z-blue dial, an exclusive electric blue that is only available on this Rolex model. It can also be fitted with a black dial that features orange hour markers at 3, 6 and 9 o’clock – echoing the seconds hand of the same colour. The hour markers on both versions are filled with luminescent material emitting a distinctive blue glow in the dark.

The main innovation at the heart of the Milgauss's resistance to magnetic interference is the shield inside the Oyster case. This shield, which consists of two parts manufactured respectively from different ferromagnetic alloys, surrounds and protects the movement. It is engraved with the symbol for magnetic flux density – a “B” with an arrow above it.

The Milgauss is equipped with calibre 3131, a self-winding mechanical movement entirely developed and manufactured by Rolex. Its architecture, manufacturing and innovative features make it exceptionally precise and reliable.

Finer than a human hair, the blue Parachrom hairspring is a key component of calibre 3131, and contributes to the Milgauss’s magnetic resistance. It offers great stability in the face of temperature variations and remains up to 10 times more precise than a traditional hairspring in case of shocks. It is equipped with a Rolex overcoil, ensuring its regularity in any position.

The 1950s was a period of technological and scientific developments that saw an increasing number of engineers and technicians exposed to magnetic fields in their working environment. This particularly affected the functioning of their watches. In response to the problem, in 1956, Rolex created the Milgauss. The watch was designed to withstand interference of up to 1,000 gauss, thanks to a magnetic shield protecting the movement.

In the late 1950s, following the launch of the Milgauss, Rolex asked CERN, the European particle physics laboratory, if its scientists could test the watch. They confirmed its magnetic resistance.

Today, more than 60 years on, Rolex continues to partner CERN by supporting, in particular, its scientific conferences and outreach events. Closely associated through their shared values, they are united by a passion for science, as well as a commitment to rigour and excellence.