The Rolex Milgauss, a watch synonymous with scientific precision and understated elegance, holds a special place in the hearts of horology enthusiasts. Among the various iterations of this iconic timepiece, the Rolex Milgauss Vetro Verde with its distinctive "Vetro Verde" (green glass) crystal and, in some variations, an "Sfondo Azzurro" (blue dial), stands out as a particularly coveted model. Understanding the allure of the Rolex Milgauss Vetro Verde, its features, and the factors influencing its price ("Prezzo Rolex") requires a deeper dive into the watch's history, design, and market dynamics. This article will explore the nuances of the Rolex Milgauss Vetro Verde, focusing on the blue dial variant, examining its historical significance, technical specifications, market value (including references to listings like the $12,685 example), and addressing common questions related to the Rolex Milgauss, including "Rolex Milgauss prezzi" (Rolex Milgauss prices), "Rolex Milgauss accesso" (Rolex Milgauss access/availability), and "Rolex Milgauss 48 ore" (Rolex Milgauss 48 hours, likely referring to power reserve).
A Legacy of Scientific Precision: The Rolex Milgauss Story
The Rolex Milgauss was born out of a specific need: a reliable and accurate timepiece for scientists and engineers working in environments with strong electromagnetic fields. These fields could wreak havoc on mechanical watches, disrupting their accuracy and potentially causing them to stop altogether. Rolex recognized this challenge and, in 1956, introduced the Milgauss, a name derived from "mille gauss," signifying its ability to withstand magnetic fields up to 1,000 Gauss.
The original Milgauss, Reference 6541, was designed with a soft iron cage (Faraday cage) encasing the movement. This cage effectively shielded the delicate components from magnetic interference, allowing the watch to maintain its accuracy even in harsh electromagnetic environments. Early models featured a distinctive lightning bolt-shaped seconds hand, a design element that would later become a defining characteristic of the Milgauss.
Over the years, the Milgauss underwent several design and technical refinements. Production was halted in the late 1980s, only to be revived in 2007 with the introduction of the Reference 116400. This new Milgauss retained the anti-magnetic capabilities of its predecessors while incorporating modern Rolex technology and design elements.
The Allure of the Vetro Verde and the Sfondo Azzurro
The Reference 116400 introduced two particularly striking variations: the standard model with a black or white dial and the Vetro Verde model. The Vetro Verde, meaning "green glass" in Italian, features a unique green-tinted sapphire crystal, a first for Rolex. This crystal is not simply coated with a green film; the green color is integrated into the sapphire itself, making it incredibly resistant to scratches and fading. The production process for this crystal is highly complex and patented by Rolex, contributing to the watch's exclusivity and desirability.
The "Sfondo Azzurro," or blue dial, is another highly sought-after feature found in certain Vetro Verde models. The combination of the green crystal and the vibrant blue dial creates a visually stunning and distinctive timepiece. The blue dial adds a touch of modernity and playfulness to the otherwise serious and functional Milgauss, making it a popular choice for collectors and enthusiasts looking for a watch that stands out from the crowd.
Decoding the Reference 116400GV: A Closer Lookrolex milgaus vetro verde sfondo azzurro prezzo rolex
The listing you provided, referencing the Rolex Milgauss Vetro Verde, Reference number 116400GV, offers a glimpse into the specifics of this particular model. Let's break down the key elements:
* Rolex Milgauss Vetro Verde: This clearly identifies the model as the Milgauss with the green sapphire crystal.
* Reference Number 116400GV: This is the official reference number that distinguishes this model from other Milgauss variations. The "GV" at the end specifically denotes the "Glace Verte" (French for green glass).
* Steel: The case and bracelet are made of Rolex's durable and corrosion-resistant 904L stainless steel.
* Automatic: The watch is powered by a self-winding mechanical movement, specifically the Rolex Caliber 3131.
* Condition Very good: This indicates that the watch is in well-maintained condition, showing signs of wear consistent with its age but without significant damage or defects. The condition plays a crucial role in determining the watch's market value.
* Year 2016: This indicates the year of manufacture. The age of the watch can also influence its value, with older or rarer models often commanding higher prices.
* Watch with original: This suggests that the watch includes its original box, papers, and other accessories. The presence of these original items significantly increases the watch's value and collectibility.