The Rolex Milgauss Z-Blue is reference 116400GV: a discontinued 40 mm Oystersteel watch distinguished by its vivid blue dial, green sapphire crystal and orange lightning-bolt seconds hand. Beneath the unusual color combination is the Milgauss’s defining purpose: a movement designed by Rolex to resist magnetic interference up to 1,000 gauss. Rolex’s specifications explain what the watch was built to do; they are not a hands-on test of a particular example.
What is a Rolex Milgauss Z-Blue?
It is the Z-blue-dial version of the green-crystal Milgauss, reference 116400GV. Rolex pairs the electric-blue dial with a green, scratch-resistant sapphire crystal, a smooth bezel and an Oystersteel case and bracelet. The contrast makes it one of the more visually unconventional modern Rolex designs; “rebel” is a useful editorial description, not Rolex’s own model designation.
The green crystal is the feature signaled by “GV,” while “Z-Blue” identifies the dial color. The watch also has an orange seconds hand shaped like a lightning bolt, a design cue inspired by the original Milgauss. Rolex’s model brochure documents the reference and its specifications; its Milgauss user guide explains the hand’s inspiration.
How anti-magnetic is the Milgauss?
Rolex says the Milgauss was created in 1956 for engineers and technicians working around magnetic fields that can disrupt mechanical watches. The company describes the model as designed to resist interference up to 1,000 gauss—hence the name—and maintain chronometric performance. This is Rolex’s model-level design claim, not a guarantee that every pre-owned example still meets that resistance today.
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In reference 116400GV, Rolex says a shield made from ferromagnetic alloys surrounds the movement. Inside is calibre 3131, a self-winding mechanical movement developed and manufactured by Rolex, with a paramagnetic blue Parachrom hairspring. These components are the engineering answer to the Milgauss’s intended environment; the Z-Blue dial and green crystal are the more immediately visible part of its identity.
Rolex Milgauss Z-Blue specifications
| Specification | Rolex’s stated detail |
|---|---|
| Reference | 116400GV |
| Case | 40 mm Oystersteel Oyster case; smooth bezel; screw-down Twinlock crown |
| Crystal and dial | Green scratch-resistant sapphire crystal; Z-blue dial with blue Chromalight display |
| Bracelet and clasp | Oystersteel three-piece Oyster bracelet; folding Oysterclasp with 5 mm Easylink extension |
| Movement | Self-winding calibre 3131 with magnetic shield |
| Precision | −2/+2 seconds per day after casing, according to Rolex |
| Power reserve | Approximately 48 hours, according to Rolex |
| Water resistance | 100 m / 330 ft, according to Rolex |
| Magnetic-resistance design claim | Up to 1,000 gauss, according to Rolex’s Milgauss user guide |
Rolex calls the watch a Superlative Chronometer, combining COSC certification with Rolex certification after casing. The precision, reserve and water-resistance figures above are manufacturer specifications, not independent test results for an individual watch.
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- Compatibility & Size: Mineral Green Watch Crystal, compatible with Rolex Milgauss (116400, 116400V, 116400GV).
- Designed for a designed for a great fit: Verify the size, color, and model compatibility with your specific watch before purchasing to Designed for a designed for a great fit and avoid returns or exchanges.
- Compatibility Check: Double-check your watch's requirements and compatibility details to confirm the product meets your needs. This will help you avoid any issues with returns or exchanges.
- Aftermarket Product: This is an aftermarket/generic made to original factory specs for a custom fit.
How the Z-Blue fits into Milgauss history
The modern reference 116400 arrived in 2007. According to Phillips’ Milgauss history, Rolex later introduced the green-crystal GV design, then added the electric-blue Z-Blue dial in 2014. The Z-Blue shared the modern Milgauss’s core case and movement design; its distinction was the dial-and-crystal combination rather than a separate mechanical specification.
Rolex discontinued the non-GV Milgauss models in 2016, while the black-dial and Z-Blue GV versions remained in the lineup. On March 27, 2023, Hodinkee reported that Rolex had removed both 116400GV versions from its active collection. The cited reporting does not establish that Rolex announced a successor.
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- MATERIAL: Crafted from durable mineral glass, offering reliable scratch resistance and long-lasting clarity for everyday wear.
- DISTINCTIVE GREEN TINT: Features a signature green-tinted lens with a matching green edge ring, replicating the iconic look of the original crystal.
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- WATCH REPAIR PART: Ideal for watchmakers and DIY enthusiasts looking to restore or replace a damaged watch crystal with a quality generic part.
Is the Rolex Milgauss discontinued?
Yes. The Z-Blue 116400GV is no longer in Rolex’s active lineup, alongside the black-dial GV version. Phillips dates the end of GV production to Watches and Wonders 2023, and Hodinkee reported the discontinuation on March 27 of that year. No production total is established by these sources, so the watch should not be described as a limited edition.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What to know about buying a pre-owned Z-Blue
Because production has ended, a buyer will generally be considering a pre-owned example rather than a current-production watch. A WatchCharts overview of the 116400GV family recorded US authorized-dealer retail of $9,300 as of February 2023 and a family-level pre-owned market estimate of $9,933 as of October 27, 2025. These are dated reference-family figures, not a current quote for a Z-Blue listing; an individual watch’s asking price can vary with condition, completeness, location and date.
Rank #4
- VERIFY YOUR WATCH MODEL & MEASURE THE CORRECT SIZE USING A RULER – Watch Parts Are Model and Size Specific. Please Verify Compatibility Before Purchasing.
- Replacement Link for Rolex Oyster Bands: Aftermarket stainless steel link fits Rolex Explorer I models 114270, 115210, and 115234. Compatible with band numbers 78690 and 72190. Verify compatibility with your band before purchase.
- High-Quality 316L Stainless Steel: Constructed from premium 316L stainless steel, this link combines durability with a refined appearance. It is engineered to endure daily wear and retain its quality.
- Finish and Design: Features a shiny/matte top and a shiny side finish, closely matching the original Rolex look. This replacement link provides a seamless appearance on your watch band.
- Compatibility & Fit: Designed specifically for newer Rolex models with Oyster bands. This link will not fit watches made before 2010 or those with hidden clasps. Ensure your watch's band style is compatible before purchasing.
For a specific watch, assess the condition and originality, available service records, box and papers, seller reputation, return terms and the date and location of the offer. The cited sources do not verify any individual listing or authenticate a particular watch. Rolex’s factory resistance claim likewise cannot establish the present performance of a used example.
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- Includes Teflon Gasket: Features a Teflon gasket to maintain your watch's waterproof quality. Engineered to offer a dependable seal and safeguard your watch from water damage.
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Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
