Rolex Milgauss 6541

Milgauss, Reference 6541 | A stainless steel anti-magnetic wristwatch with tropical honeycomb dial, lightning hand and bracelet restored by Rolex Atelier of Restauration | Made in 1958 Rolex

Dial: tropical honeycomb Calibre: cal. 1055 automatic, 25 jewels Case: stainless steel, screw-down case back Case number: 412’283 Closure: stainless steel Rolex Oyster bracelet and folding clasp Size: 39 mm diameter, bracelet circumference approximately 180 mm Signed: case, dial and movement Box: no Papers: no Accessories: Rolex Atelier of Restauration booklet and presentation case with outer packagingReleased in 1956, the reference 6541 represents the very first iteration of the Milgauss. The model targeted scientists, engineers, and technicians working with high magnetic fields in electro-industrial environments. The Milgauss was guaranteed to resist magnetic fields up to 1,000 oersted. The name Milgauss is derived from the Latin word mille, which means 1,000, and gauss, the unit of measure for a magnetic field. The Milgauss overcomes the effects of magnetic fields by using anti-magnetic alloys and an iron inner movement case to create a Faraday cage. Sotheby’s is honored to offer for the first time a Rolex Milgauss reference 6541 consigned directly by an Important Asian Private Collector that has been completely vetted, tested and authenticated by the Rolex Atelier Restoration Department. The watch is accompanied by an extensive hard bound document prepared by Rolex confirming and illustrating the restoration and cleaning of the movement, case and bracelet with no intervention at all with the dial, hands or bezel. Manufactured in 1958, the present example still retains its sought after seconds hand in the shape of a lightning bolt. Furthermore, the watch has an unmistakable and beautifully preserved “honeycomb” dial that has aged to a stunning and uniform “tropical” brown. The originally red “Milgauss” designation has faded to pink and the case number 412’283 is consistent with other examples of the reference. Fitted with Rolex’s caliber 1066, its bridge features an engraved ‘M’ specific only to the Milgauss model and the bezel insert with its red triangle is calibrated correctly for 60 minutes. The present lot is a superb and a highly coveted reference that is confirmed by Rolex themselves.