Exceptional Horological Works of Art

Geneva, Oct 19, 2002

LOT 91

Rolex Oyster Perpetual "Milgauss", Superlative Chronometer, Officially Certified, Ref. 1019. Production of this reference started in 1966. Fine, water-resistant to 50 m., center-seconds, self-winding, stainless steel gentleman?s wristwatch with a stainless steel Oyster bracelet. Accompanied by original certificate.

CHF 20,000 - 25,000

EUR 13,000 - 16,000

Sold: CHF 22,425

C. three-body, polished and brushed, screwed-down case back and crown, anti-magnetic protecting cap. D. matte silver with steel and black indexes. "Bâton" steel and black hands. M. Cal. 1580, rhodium-plated, 26 jewels, straight line lever escapement, monometallic balance adjusted to 5 positions and temperature, shock-absorber, self-compensating Breguet balance-spring. Dial, case and movement signed. Diam. 37 mm. Approx. overall length 200 mm.


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Grading System
Grade: AAA

Excellent
Case: 3

Good
Movement: 3*

Good

Overhaul recommended, at buyer's expense
Dial: 3 - 01

Notes

Produced in stainless steel only, from 1966 to 1990. The name "Milgauss", combines "Mil", meaning one thousand, and "Gauss", for the unit of measure of magnetism. A normal movement can withstand up to 70-80 Gauss, but above that its working order would be compromised. Most good watches resist magnetic fields of 60 to 70 Gauss, but the "Milgauss" keeps its astounding precision in magnetic fields of up to 1000 Gauss, which represent extreme conditions. Yet with its dial, ring and the cover of its movement in soft iron -a true "Oyster"- Rolex created a model which brilliantly resolved the problem.