rolex watch milgauss 116400 gv | Rolex Milgauss 116400gv price

The Rolex Milgauss 116400 GV, instantly recognizable by its striking green sapphire crystal and lightning bolt seconds hand, is more than just a timepiece; it's a statement. Designed for scientists and engineers working in environments with strong magnetic fields, the Milgauss has evolved into a sought-after collector's item. Its unique aesthetic and innovative engineering have propelled it to a desirable position in the luxury watch market. This article provides an in-depth exploration of the Rolex Milgauss 116400 GV, analyzing its financial performance, current market value, and the factors influencing its price. We'll also delve into the nuances of buying new and used models and compare deals available online, particularly focusing on platforms like Chrono24.

A Brief History and Significance of the Milgauss

Before diving into the specifics of the 116400 GV, it's crucial to understand the Milgauss's historical context. The Milgauss was first introduced in 1956 (Reference 6541) to meet the needs of professionals working near strong electromagnetic fields. "Milgauss" is derived from the French word "mille," meaning thousand, and "gauss," a unit of magnetic induction. The original Milgauss could withstand magnetic fields of up to 1,000 Gauss, thanks to its innovative design and the use of a Faraday cage to protect the movement.

While the original Milgauss wasn't a commercial success upon its initial release, it gained a cult following over the years. Production ceased in 1988, making vintage models highly collectible. In 2007, Rolex reintroduced the Milgauss with the reference 116400, bringing a modern twist to the iconic design. The 116400 GV, with its "Glace Verte" (French for green glass) sapphire crystal, quickly became the most popular variant.

Rolex Milgauss 116400 GV: The Specifications

The Rolex Milgauss 116400 GV boasts a robust and reliable design. Key specifications include:

* Case: 40mm Oyster case crafted from 904L stainless steel, renowned for its corrosion resistance and luster.

* Crystal: Scratch-resistant green sapphire crystal (the GV's defining feature).

* Movement: Rolex Calibre 3131, a self-winding mechanical movement entirely developed and manufactured by Rolex. It features a Parachrom hairspring, providing greater resistance to shocks and temperature variations. The movement is also shielded by a Faraday cage, protecting it from magnetic fields.

* Dial: Available in black or Z-blue (electric blue), both featuring luminous hour markers.rolex watch milgauss 116400 gv

* Bracelet: Oyster bracelet made of 904L stainless steel with an Oysterclasp and Easylink comfort extension link, allowing for easy adjustment of the bracelet length.

* Water Resistance: 100 meters (330 feet).

* Features: Hours, minutes, central seconds hand (lightning bolt design), and paramagnetic components.

Rolex Milgauss 116400 GV Price: A Comprehensive Analysis

Understanding the price of a Rolex Milgauss 116400 GV requires considering several factors, including its condition, age, box and papers, and market demand.

* Rolex Milgauss Retail Price (Original MSRP): The last known retail price of the Rolex Milgauss 116400 GV before it was discontinued was around $8,950 USD. However, since its discontinuation, the market price has significantly increased.

* Rolex Milgauss Price New (Grey Market): Finding a *new* Rolex Milgauss 116400 GV is challenging since it's no longer in production. However, some authorized dealers or grey market dealers might have new-old-stock (NOS) models. Expect to pay a premium over the original MSRP, often ranging from $12,000 to $18,000 or even higher, depending on availability and condition.

* Rolex Milgauss Price Used: The used market offers more options for acquiring a Milgauss 116400 GV. Prices for used models vary based on condition, age, and the presence of original box and papers. Generally, expect to find used models ranging from $10,000 to $16,000. Models in excellent condition with complete box and papers command higher prices.