ROLEX | MILGAUSS REF 6541A RARE STAINLESS STEEL AUTOMATIC ANTI MAGNETIC WRISTWATCH WITH BRACELET CIRCA 1958

Dial: black honeycombCaliber: cal. 1080 automatic, 25 jewels, soft iron coverMovement number: N726507Case: stainless steel, screw down case back and crownCase number: 412479Closure: stainless steel Rolex rivet bracelet with folding claspDimensions: 37 mm diameter , bracelet length approximately 180 mmSigned: case, dial and movementAccessories: Rolex Guarantee dated 1966, associated presentation box

Case:The case is in very good overall condition retaining thick lugs. In our view, the case has been polished, and has some minor scuffing on the case from wear. The bezel is original and has signs of wear and age, most notably around the circumference of the bezel near the 0/6 position and 3.Dial:The dial is in good overall condition. There is some discoloration visible throughout the dial, most notably near the 12 and 6 o'clock positions, as well as some discoloration on all of the hour markers.Movement:The movement is running at time of cataloguing, however it was not tested for the accuracy of time or duration of the power reserve and may need service at the buyer's discretion. Please note that Sotheby's does not guarantee the future working of the movementPlease note the serial number on the guarantee is transcribed as 5541, however it is a reference 6541.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. All dimensions in catalogue descriptions are approximate. Condition reports may not specify mechanical replacements or imperfections to the movement, case, dial, pendulum, separate base(s) or dome. Watches in water-resistant cases have been opened to examine movements but no warranties are made that the watches are currently water-resistant. Please note that we do not guarantee the authenticity of any individual component parts, such as wheels, hands, crowns, crystals, screws, bracelets and leather bands, since subsequent repairs and restoration work may have resulted in the replacement of original parts. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue. In particular, please note it is the purchaser's responsibility to comply with any applicable import and export matters, particularly in relation to lots incorporating materials from endangered species.NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

**Please be advised that bands made of materials derived from endangered or otherwise protected species (i.e. alligator and crocodile) are not sold with the watches and are for display purposes only. We reserve the right to remove these bands prior to shipping."

The reference 6541 'Milgauss' was launched in 1954 and designed to be used by scientists and those working in areas where exposure to high magnetic fields was unavoidable. The watch was guaranteed to resist magnetic fields up to 1,000 oersted. The word Milgauss means 1,000 gauss (gauss being a measurement for magnetic induction). Magnetic fields can affect a watch's accuracy at just 60 oersted; at 100 oersted the watch will no longer work. The Milgauss overcame the effects of magnetic fields by using anti-magnetic alloys and an iron movement cover to create a Faraday cage (a nonporous enclosure used to block electrostatic and electromagnetic influences).Recent research showed that the dial of this reference is made of webbed laminated copper to protect the movement from the magnetic fields, which collectors refer to as a 'honeycomb' dial.

For further information see: Skeet, M., & Urul, N., Vintage Rolex Sports Models, 2002, pp.90-94.

The present lot is being offered on behalf of the original owner. It was a gift from his father.