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It's the Milgauss

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Today we’re talking about a cool yet quirky watch worm by one of these guys on the screen. So if you’re quirky and not like all the other other girls, you’ll love today’s edition.

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Rolex - Milgauss

This week, let’s dive into the Rolex Milgauss—a watch that takes “cool” to a whole new level, especially if you’re into science vibes. Originally designed to handle intense magnetic fields, this timepiece doesn’t just tell time; it laughs in the face of magnets. With its green-tinted crystal, lightning bolt seconds hand, and sleek black or blue dial, the Milgauss is a perfect mix of innovation and style. Let’s get into it.

Watch Specs

📏= 40 mm 🌊= 100 m
💰️= $10,000(ish)

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It’s Electric (or magnetic…resistant)

Let’s be honest—finding a luxury watch that combines Rolex quality with a touch of unique personality isn’t easy. So we have the Rolex Milgauss, a watch that’s as bold as it is functional. Originally designed for scientists working in high-magnetic environments, the Milgauss takes anti-magnetic protection to the next level. This watch shrugs off magnetic fields like they’re nothing, thanks to its 3131 movement and special internal shield.

But the Milgauss isn’t just about what’s under the hood. This watch flaunts a 40mm stainless steel case that feels just right on the wrist, paired with a sleek black or electric blue dial that makes a statement. And let’s not forget that green-tinted sapphire crystal—Rolex is the only brand with this unique look. Top it off with the lightning bolt seconds hand, and you’ve got a timepiece that stands out from your standard Rolex.

More Specs

  • Case Height1: 13.50 mm

  • Lug to Lug2: 48 mm

  • Strap Width3: 20 mm

  • Crystal4: Sapphire

  • Movement5: Auto

  • Power Reserve6: 48 hours

This watch is discontinued, but available in the used market. With a price tag that’s undeniably Rolex, the Milgauss isn’t exactly an impulse buy. But for those who want a blend of Swiss luxury and rugged science-inspired durability, it’s worth every penny. This watch is for the person who wants to make a statement without screaming for attention. It's reliable, unique, and timeless—a rare combo that lives up to the Rolex name.

🏃 Activities

Beach/Swimming 🏖️ 

Sure. But I personally would not take this on the beach.

Outdoor Adventuring 🌲 

No. It can handle a casual hike and putzing around outside. But I wouldn’t cliff dive with it.

Dressing Up 🤵

Oh yeah. I would.

📖 The Story

The Birth of the Milgauss: A Watch for Scientists

Introduced by Rolex in 1956, the Milgauss was designed to meet the needs of scientists and engineers who worked in environments with strong magnetic fields, such as research labs and power plants. Magnetic fields can disrupt the accuracy of most watches, but the Milgauss was built with a special protective shield around its movement, allowing it to withstand magnetic fields up to 1,000 gauss (hence the name “Milgauss” – “mille” meaning thousand in French). This innovation was a game-changer, as it allowed professionals to wear a precise, reliable timepiece in settings that would normally interfere with other watches.

Evolution and Distinctive Design

The Milgauss went through several design changes over the decades. Early models, like the Reference 6541, had a unique lightning bolt seconds hand and rotating bezel, setting the watch apart from other Rolex models. By the 1970s, Rolex streamlined the Milgauss with simpler design elements, but in 2007, the model was reintroduced with a modern twist. Today’s Milgauss features a signature green-tinted sapphire crystal and vibrant orange accents, paying homage to its roots while adding a contemporary flair. Now more popular than ever, the Milgauss has become a cult favorite among collectors and watch enthusiasts who appreciate its blend of scientific heritage and distinctive design.

⌚️ This Watch Is For or On The Screen

In A Man in Full, Jeff Daniels’ character, Charlie Croker, sports a Rolex Milgauss—a watch that’s as magnetic (literally) as his larger-than-life personality.

Known for its green-tinted sapphire crystal and that quirky orange lightning bolt seconds hand, the Milgauss is Rolex’s rebellious sidekick to its more classic pieces. Designed to withstand intense magnetic fields (you know, in case Croker decides to moonlight as a scientist), it’s got a durability that matches his stubborn, no-nonsense approach to life.

But let’s be real: Croker isn’t exactly wearing this Milgauss to protect him from radiation. The choice of a Milgauss is as much about style as it is about attitude. It’s bold, it’s unique, and it quietly says, “I’ve seen some things.”

For a guy who’s navigating business disasters and personal chaos, the Milgauss adds the perfect touch of rugged prestige, reminding everyone that you don’t have to be subtle to have class.

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👋 Outta Time

Thanks for stopping by!

Want to know a secret? I was looking for an excuse to write an article about the Milgauss. Behind the Explorer II, it’s a watch I’ve had my eyes on for over a decade.

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Random Fact About Ian: he fights the authority, the authority always wins.

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1  Case height is the thickness of the watch.

2  Lug to lug measurement of a watch is the measurement in millimeters from the top-most extremity of the case lugs to the bottom (more info)

3  Strap width (also known as lug width) is the distance between the two lugs of the watch. The lugs are the part of the watch case in which the strap attaches. If you want to change straps, this number is important.

4  Crystal is the clear material through which you look into the watch. Think of it as the “glass” but it’s not always literally glass. (more info)

5  Movement is the mechanism that activates the watch hands and other complications. Automatic movements are powered by your movement, mechanical need you to wind it and quartz movements are battery operated. Each of these have specific “calibers” that work in different ways. Think of the caliber as the engine. Different cars have different engines.

6  Power reserve is the length of time a watch will stay powered/keep time without it being worn or wound. This time depends on the specific caliber of the movement. Many are 42 hours while others can last up to 80 hours.

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