Introduction
Released in 1956, the Rolex Milgauss was a groundbreaking watch designed for the scientists at CERN, the European Organisation for Nuclear Research, as the scientists’ watches would commonly become magnetised and no longer work. Launched as one of the most anti-magnetic watches around at the time, the Milgauss could withstand 1000 gauss of magnetism, hence its name. While the collection began with the ref. 6541 and ref. 6543, the ref. 1019 that we have here was launched in 1960 and featured several upgrades. With its larger 38mm case, the ref. 1019 also featured the new automatic cal. 1580 movement. Furthermore, some slight aesthetic alterations were made. The lightning bolt second hand from the previous references was swapped for the second hand you see here with a red arrowhead that matches the red Milgauss inscription displayed on the dial. An understated watch from an aesthetic standpoint, the Milgauss saw quite some success, and throughout its 28-year production run (until 1988), it saw a slew of dial variants produced ranging from matte white and black to glossy black to silver. The example we have here is the silver dial variant, with a service dial, which helps tie the entire example’s understated aesthetic together.
Loupe This Scorecard
Grade
V 8
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Watch Only
Est. value range
$8,000 – $12,000
The Details
Brand
Rolex
Dimensions
38mm x 12mm
Model
Milgauss
Movement
Automatic cal. 1580
Reference
1019
Bracelet
Leather strap
Year
1968
Condition
Very Good
Material
Stainless steel
Included
Watch only
Dial Color
Silver
Condition
Watch is in very good overall condition. Case shows previous signs of polishing, as chamfered edges are no longer present on lugs. Lugs have soft edges but minimal surface wear. Bezel has been commensurately polished. There are minimal scratches or marks, but it shows soft edges. The surface between the case lugs that show the reference number has moderate pitting, but the 1019 is still legible. Serial number side is free from pitting and numbers are crisp and legible. Watch is fitted with a later silver service dial and frosted service hands. Watch comes on a third party strap and buckle.
Please Note: Due to CITES considerations, if the watch is to be shipped outside of the USA, the exotic skin strap will have to be removed.
Our Perspective
Originally one of Rolex's most niche-specific tool watches, the Milgauss has grown in popularity in recent years as collectors begin to cherish its unique history.