The Rolex Milgauss, with its distinctive orange lightning bolt seconds hand and anti-magnetic properties, holds a unique position within the Rolex universe. While not as widely recognized as the Submariner or Daytona, it boasts a dedicated following captivated by its unconventional design and fascinating history. This article delves into the world of the Rolex Milgauss, exploring its discontinued models, the reasons behind its discontinuation (at least in certain iterations), its various models, price history, and what makes it such a sought-after collector's piece. We'll also examine the specific discontinuation of the GV model and address the question: what happened to the Rolex Milgauss?
The Milgauss: A Legacy of Magnetic Resistance
First introduced in 1956, the Milgauss was designed for scientists and researchers working in environments with strong magnetic fields. The name itself, a combination of "mille" (thousand) and "gauss" (a unit of magnetic flux density), highlights its impressive ability to withstand magnetic fields of up to 1,000 gauss. This was a groundbreaking feat for a wristwatch at the time, setting it apart from other timepieces vulnerable to magnetic interference. This functionality, combined with its distinctive aesthetic, cemented its place in horological history.
Rolex Milgauss Models: A Journey Through Time
The Rolex Milgauss hasn't remained static throughout its history. Several models have been produced, each with its own unique features and subtle design variations. Understanding these variations is crucial for collectors and enthusiasts alike. While a complete, exhaustive list is beyond the scope of this article, some key models and their defining characteristics include:
* The Original (6541): The first generation Milgauss, characterized by its simple, utilitarian design and the iconic orange seconds hand. These early models are highly collectible due to their rarity and historical significance.
* The 1019: This reference featured a slightly refined case and dial compared to its predecessor. It still maintained the original's focus on functionality.
* The 116400 (Modern Milgauss): Introduced in 2007, this model marked a significant return for the Milgauss after a long hiatus. It retained the anti-magnetic properties but introduced a more contemporary design, including a distinctive green sapphire crystal and the now-iconic orange lightning bolt seconds hand. This model is arguably the most well-known and readily available on the secondary market. Variations within this reference include different dial colors and bracelet options.
* The Rolex Milgauss GV (116400GV): This specific variant of the 116400 featured a green dial, setting it apart from its black-dialed counterpart. The GV designation refers to the green dial ("grün" in German). The discontinuation of this model (more on that later) has further fueled its desirability among collectors.
The variations within each model, including dial variations, bracelet types (Oyster or Oysterflex), and subtle case differences, contribute to the complexity and fascination surrounding Milgauss collecting. Detailed information on specific model numbers and their characteristics can be found through dedicated Rolex resources and collectors' forums.
Rolex Milgauss Discontinued: What Happened?
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