The Rolex Milgauss, specifically the reference 116400 in stainless steel, holds a unique position within the Rolex catalog. It's a watch that expertly blends the brand's renowned reliability and precision with a distinct, almost rebellious, aesthetic. This article will delve into the world of the 116400 SS Milgauss, exploring its history, design features, price variations, and its place in the broader Rolex landscape. We'll also address the specific example mentioned: an unworn, stickered 116400 with a white dial currently priced at $14,925. This price point, while seemingly high, is entirely consistent with the current market value for this sought-after watch.
A Brief History of the Milgauss:
The Milgauss, meaning "thousand gauss," was originally introduced by Rolex in the late 1950s. Designed for scientists and researchers working in environments with strong magnetic fields, the watch boasted a remarkable level of anti-magnetic protection – a feat of horological engineering for its time. This inherent functionality gave the Milgauss a unique identity, setting it apart from the more classically styled Oyster Perpetual and Datejust models. The original Milgauss featured a distinctive orange lightning bolt seconds hand, a design element that has become synonymous with the watch.
The reference 116400, introduced in the early 2000s, represents a modern iteration of the Milgauss. While maintaining the core principles of anti-magnetic protection, this newer model incorporated updated design features and improved technology. It's this specific reference that we'll primarily focus on in this article.
The Rolex 116400 SS Milgauss: Design and Features:
The 116400 SS Milgauss boasts a 40mm stainless steel Oyster case, a size that perfectly balances wearability and presence. The iconic design elements include:
* The Case: The robust Oyster case, synonymous with Rolex, provides exceptional water resistance (100 meters) and protection against the elements. The case's smooth lines and polished surfaces contribute to the watch's overall elegance.
* The Dial: The 116400 is available with several dial options, including the white dial mentioned in the initial description. The white dial version features simple, legible markers and hands, providing excellent readability. The distinctive orange seconds hand, a nod to the original Milgauss, adds a vibrant pop of color.
* The Movement: The heart of the 116400 is the caliber 3131, a self-winding mechanical movement. This movement is specifically designed to withstand magnetic fields of up to 1,000 gauss, a testament to Rolex's commitment to functionality. The movement's accuracy and reliability are hallmarks of Rolex craftsmanship.
* The Bracelet: The watch is typically fitted with a robust Oyster bracelet, featuring solid links and a comfortable clasp. The bracelet's durability and refined design perfectly complement the case.
Understanding the Price: $14,925 for an Unworn 116400
The price of $14,925 for an unworn, stickered Rolex 116400 SS Milgauss with a white dial is justifiable within the current market. Several factors contribute to this price point:
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