Why This Watch Matters We dare you to find a better tool watch than this Rolex Milgauss. Engineered to be resistant to magnetic fields, this example features an unusual steel 38 mm case with a brushed silver dial that is to die for. The Full Story The Milgauss is a beautiful anomaly in Rolex’s line of watches; it was geared toward a very specific market – mainly scientists and other professionals who were exposed to magnetic fields. A soft iron cage developed following Michael Faraday's creation of the "Faraday cage" shields the Milgauss' movement from magnetic disturbances. Because of the additional cage, the Milgauss has a larger 38 mm case – unusual dimensions for the brand that swore by the 36 mm size at the time (think about the Explorer and Datejust). The Milgauss was not exclusively about function, as it also featured seriously dreamy dials – either black or mirror finished like you see here and that would be hard pressed to find elsewhere. This watch is much more than your average tool watch. The Fine Print Maker: RolexModel: MilgaussReference: 1019Year: 1970Case No: 2427xxxMaterial: Stainless SteelDimensions: 38 mm diameter; 12 mm thickness Sapphire Crystal: NoLume: Yes, tritiumCaliber: Automatic winding, caliber 1580Bracelet/Strap: 1971 stainless steel folded Oyster bracelet, Reference 7836 with end links 258Lug Width: 20 mm Box/Papers: No What we Love and What You Should Know This watch is a great vintage piece with a well preserved case and a tight bracelet. The case has superficial scratches throughout, but has maintained thick lugs with visible bevels on the chamfers. The spectacular silvered dial has a full set of aged yellow lume plots that match the handset. Although the hands show signs of aging, they are in good condition overall, and are consistent with the watch’s age. Furthermore, the movement is protected by a double layer (as it should be in this model).
