Brand: Rolex
Model: Milgauss
Reference: 1019
Year: 1974
Serial number: 1915XXX
Material: stainless steel
Bracelet: stainless steel
Diameter: 38 millimeters
Condition: very good
box&papers: yes, full set
Description: Delightful early 1019 Milgauss with box and papers from Germany and a magically good SQUARE LUME dial.
First of all, a quick bit of information about the serial number. 1.9 million would mean production in 1968, but only the case has been engraved by then. All Milgauss were delivered later. There was simply no demand for it back then. Based on my database, the watch was assembled in 1974/75, delivered and then sold three years later.
The case is in great condition. Yes, it has signs of wear, quite a few, but for me the overall impression is right and the watch exudes absolute charisma exactly as it is. Since this is the early case version of the 1019, which was thinner than the later versions, there was not much polishing done to this case. In addition, the edges are beautiful and the transitions to the bezel and crown also fit wonderfully.
The dial. OH LA LA. Have you seen the pictures? Enthusiastic? Nothing else is possible. A wonderful and rare SQUARE LUME dial with an amazing patina. Three hard facts:
Square LUME: As you can see, the lume is not round, but rather applied to the indexes in a rectangular shape. Therefore these dials are called Square Lume. This is a rare and demanded early variant of the Milgauss dial and looks simply wonderful.
Condition: TOP TOP. Actually all Milgauss dials have light damage to the edges. This is related to the structure of the Milgauss and the dial pressure. This dial is a rare exception and shows no damage whatsoever, making it even rarer and more desirable.
Patina: The patina of the lume on the dial and hands is simply brilliant. The gray dial with a straight cut contrasts wonderfully.
By the way, this beauty has been sold on September 17, 1977 in Germany by rolex authorized dealer Gerhard D. Wempe.
The 7836 folded Oyster bracelet is worn, just as the watch, with a lot of wear and some stretch. Due to the clasp without a date stamp, I assume that this is how the bracelet was delivered with the watch. From 1974 onwards, the last folded straps were manufactured by Rolex and they no longer had a date stamp.
Conclusion: Milgauss love ahead. When it comes to the look and the scope of delivery, you won’t find a better 1019.
