The Rolex Milgauss (ref. 116400-0002) was engineered to defy an invisible but formidable adversary – magnetism – which disrupts timekeeping precision in standard mechanical movements. First issued in 1956 for scientists working in magnetic environments, the Milgauss was the world’s first wristwatch designed to resist fields up to 1,000 gauss, giving rise to its name.

This model pairs a 40mm Oystersteel case with a smooth bezel and crisp white dial, distinguished by bright orange lightning-bolt seconds hand and matching hour markers – nods to the watch’s electric heritage. Within, the calibre 3131 movement is equipped with a Faraday cage and antimagnetic components such as a paramagnetic blue Parachrom hairspring, delivering 48 hours of power reserve and resistance unrivalled in everyday sports watches. Water-resistant to 100m, it is fitted to the robust three-link Oyster bracelet.

The ref. 116400-0002, also known as the white-dial Milgauss (non-GV), was discontinued in 2013, making it the rarest variant of the modern Milgauss lineup. Collectors value it for its clean, high-contrast appearance and for anchoring one of Rolex’s most scientifically purposeful lines.