Worn by the European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN) in Geneva due to its resistance to strong magnetic fields, Rolex's Milgauss model was originally designed for engineers and technicians that are exposed to magnetism at their job sites. Its name is a combination of mille, the French word for thousand, and gauss, a unit that measures magnetism. The 2016 version of this model features many technological advances that help to protect its 3131 movement (manufactured in-house by the watchmaker) from malfunctioning due to exposure to magnetic energy. 

2016 Rolex Milgauss 116400GV (photo: Rolex/Jonathan Pease)

Available with the Z Blue dial shown in the photo above or a white or black dial, this model features a lightning bolt seconds hand that pays homage to the original version introduced in 1956. It comes in stainless steel on an Oyster bracelet with polished center links with an Oysterclasp fitted with a 5 mm Easylink extension. The case measures 40 millimeters in diameter and is sealed with a Twinclock winding crown. It has a depth rating of 100 meters and a power reserve of 48 hours. A distinctive feature of this model is its unique green tinted sapphire crystal.

A magnetic shield made of ferromagnetic alloys protects the movement within the case, with the oscillator and escapement made from paramagnetic materials to protect them from magnetic interference. The escapement wheel is made from a nickel-phosphorus alloy that is produced in-house through a process called UV-LiGA. The oscillator has a blue Parachrom hairspring that is also resistant to magnetism. Between the shield and the component parts, Rolex assures the wearer that the precision of this timepiece will not be affected by work environments in the telecommunications, aerospace and nuclear energy fields.

Most people are not exposed to large amounts of magnetic energy at their job sites, but that shouldn't stop them from looking at this charming wristwatch model. You don't have to be a scientist to sport a Milgauss, just like you don't have to be a professional diver to enjoy the Deepsea. The suggested retail price for the 2016 Rolex Milgauss (Reference # 116400GV) is $8,200 US. For more information on this and other 2016 model configurations, visit rolex.com or visit or local Authorized Dealer.

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