ROLEXROLEXROLEXROLEXROLEXROLEXROLEXROLEXROLEXROLEXROLEXROLEX

Clutch Cargo · 16 March 2014, 08:07 AM

Just curious if any Milgauss owners have replaced the "lightning bolt" second hand with a straight one. I find the second hand so annoying, that it's pretty much a deal breaker for me.

My AD said that not only wouldn't they be allowed to replace one, they didn't even have the key to open the inner case. I knew they couldn't do it, but I didn't know that apparently Rolex doesn't let them have a key to do it.

Jason71 · 16 March 2014, 08:13 AM

No......Absolutely not. I would never change my Milgauss.

Why not just get a DJ 2 that looks similar??

Borrowed pics

Clutch Cargo · 16 March 2014, 08:16 AM

Because of the uniqueness of the green crystal. I'm also planning on a DJ II blue stick dial.

Jason71 · 16 March 2014, 08:25 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Clutch Cargo

Because of the uniqueness of the green crystal. I'm also planning on a DJ II blue stick dial.

Ahhh......I gotcha

Since you are not going to be a one watch kinda guy.....Maybe the orange second-hand would start to grow on you after you owned it for a while?? You would have the blue DJ 2 for more formal, and the Milgauss could be more for dress-down. Honestly, I thought the second-hand would be more 'in your face' before I owned one, but I don't even notice it now at all.

judson · 16 March 2014, 08:54 AM

I understand the funkiness of the secondhand, but I love my Milgauss and think it is one of the more under appreciated watches in the Rolex line up. Not too big at 40mm but the depth of the watch makes it sit proud on the wrist. It has a nice heft and wonderful wrist presence.

I bought it as a weekend watch, no date, but now I wear it a few days a week. The lightning bolt represents the history of the watch, and that is a cool reminder to me of its history.

outtatime · 16 March 2014, 10:01 AM

I'm with you on the second hand. I like the white Milgauss, but the lack of a date and th dumb-looking second hand eliminates it from my radar.

CDNWatchNut · 16 March 2014, 10:42 AM

Noooooo

the lightning second hand is an iconic milgauss design element....although I do get it that many don't like it. To me its part of the quirky uniqueness of the milgauss, and in particular the GV, and that's the beauty of it...it's a polarizing design. One of my favourties...

Ps-Rolex definitely won't do it, but an independent watch maker likely would, if a suitable replacement could be sourced. I don't think there is any kind of special key for the inner case that would not be available at many independents who service Rolex.

Old Expat Beast · 16 March 2014, 10:51 AM

I love the lightning bolt, it's a reference to the 1950s.

Speed · 16 March 2014, 01:04 PM

Use to hate it...til I ate it!

Rolex_Collector · 16 March 2014, 01:13 PM

Lighting bolt is what makes the watch.... Wouldn't touch it I would think you would mind having a Franken more than you would mind the bolt...

Clutch Cargo · 16 March 2014, 01:31 PM

My AD also thought that Rolex might have used a model specific mount for the hands, so that only another Milgauss second hand would fit. Can anyone confirm this?

ecsub44 · 16 March 2014, 02:10 PM

I think the bolt hand is a fundamental aspect of what makes a Milgauss.

padi56 · 16 March 2014, 05:37 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Old Expat Beast

I love the lightning bolt, it's a reference to the 1950s.

Have to agree but there in only one Milgauss and that's the vintage one and IMHO the modern one although a nice watch is just a pretender.

GradyPhilpott · 16 March 2014, 05:51 PM

When I first saw the lightning bolt second-hand, I thought it was quite silly and couldn't help but wonder if there were any CERN employees and others who might desire the magnetic protection without the cartoonish feature.

However, as time has gone by, I've grown accustomed to the look.

I need the a watch with the properties of the Milgauss and I doubt that I'd ever buy one just for the lightning bolt.

It is a very nice watch, though.

osamu · 16 March 2014, 07:45 PM

I didn't like the bolt either at first, but yea it is like what makes it unique. Sometimes though, I wish it was just silver like the original.

Is there a way to just take the paint off?

AK797 · 16 March 2014, 09:17 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by osamu

I didn't like the bolt either at first, but yea it is like what makes it unique. Sometimes though, I wish it was just silver like the original.

Is there a way to just take the paint off?

Agree a more subtle colour would work better.

Jake B · 16 March 2014, 09:22 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by padi56

Have to agree but there in only one Milgauss and that's the vintage one and IMHO the modern one although a nice watch is just a pretender.

What?

Jake B · 16 March 2014, 09:24 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ecsub44

I think the bolt hand is a fundamental aspect of what makes a Milgauss.

For sure...the bolt's an important part of the package.

crowncollection · 16 March 2014, 09:35 PM

No I think choose another watch it is a fundamental feature.

zion_rasta · 16 March 2014, 09:41 PM

Why wouldn't Rolex offer milgauss capability in other models?

bparone · 16 March 2014, 10:14 PM

Love the 2nd hand.

Cc1966 · 17 March 2014, 01:16 AM

The charm of the Milgauss includes that iconic lightening bolt second hand. If you replace it, it's like pulling it's teeth....IMHO.

The Joker · 17 March 2014, 01:20 AM

I think it looks good, can't see why it's such a deal breaker. Maybe a rethink.

colpol · 17 March 2014, 01:20 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ecsub44

I think the bolt hand is a fundamental aspect of what makes a Milgauss.

Have to disagree on that one.

Unfortunately just a picture uploaded from a google search.

IMHO - a lot of sales perhaps lost via the lighting second hand. I guess we can all agree\ to disagree on this one

robisan · 17 March 2014, 01:21 AM

If you want a Milgauss with straight second hand then go look for a 1019. It will be hard thou. I'm keeping mine. :)

ecsub44 · 17 March 2014, 01:25 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by colpol

Have to disagree on that one.

Unfortunately just a picture uploaded from a google search.

IMHO - a lot of sales perhaps lost via the lighting second hand. I guess we can all agree\ to disagree on this one

Of course it came with a straight hand.

But, like I said, TO ME, it should have the bolt. :up:

E70x5 · 17 March 2014, 01:30 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Rolex_Collector

Lighting bolt is what makes the watch.... Wouldn't touch it I would think you would mind having a Franken more than you would mind the bolt...

+1 Very well said !

dw.metro · 17 March 2014, 01:51 AM

Just like collector cars, always keep it as stock as possible.

CrownMe · 17 March 2014, 01:59 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by padi56

Have to agree but there in only one Milgauss and that's the vintage one and IMHO the modern one although a nice watch is just a pretender.

Exactly.

KINGROLESAR · 17 March 2014, 02:05 AM

The hand and its color is a non issue and the "pretender" looks better than the original. The impact of the watch in daily wear is all about the green glass and polished surfaces. The hand and baton colors are more a bit of whimsy for its owner but are not in anyway a detractor from the overall impact when worn.

16 March 2014, 08:07 AM	#1
Clutch Cargo "TRF" Member Join Date: Mar 2012 Real Name: Lynn Location: Dallas, Texas Posts: 452	Replacing A Milgauss Second Hand Just curious if any Milgauss owners have replaced the "lightning bolt" second hand with a straight one. I find the second hand so annoying, that it's pretty much a deal breaker for me. My AD said that not only wouldn't they be allowed to replace one, they didn't even have the key to open the inner case. I knew they couldn't do it, but I didn't know that apparently Rolex doesn't let them have a key to do it.

16 March 2014, 08:13 AM	#2
Jason71 "TRF" Member Join Date: Mar 2009 Real Name: Jason Location: USA Watch: Rolex/Tudor Divers Posts: 7,973	No......Absolutely not. I would never change my Milgauss. Why not just get a DJ 2 that looks similar?? Borrowed pics __________________ Best Regards, Jason Just Say "NO" to Polishing Card-Carrying Member of the Global Association of Retro-Grouch Curmudgeons LIfe is too short to wear inexpensive watches PLEXI IS SEXY

16 March 2014, 10:01 AM	#6
outtatime "TRF" Member Join Date: Jan 2010 Real Name: Jon Location: Toledo, OH Watch: Deepsea Posts: 1,136	I'm with you on the second hand. I like the white Milgauss, but the lack of a date and th dumb-looking second hand eliminates it from my radar. __________________ The above represents my opinion. I may be wrong, but that's how I feel. Scratches ≠ "Character"

16 March 2014, 10:42 AM	#7
CDNWatchNut "TRF" Member Join Date: Apr 2010 Real Name: Juan Location: Sherwood Park, Ab Watch: 114060 Posts: 1,509	Noooooothe lightning second hand is an iconic milgauss design element....although I do get it that many don't like it. To me its part of the quirky uniqueness of the milgauss, and in particular the GV, and that's the beauty of it...it's a polarizing design. One of my favourties... Ps-Rolex definitely won't do it, but an independent watch maker likely would, if a suitable replacement could be sourced. I don't think there is any kind of special key for the inner case that would not be available at many independents who service Rolex.

16 March 2014, 10:51 AM	#8
Old Expat Beast TRF Moderator & 2024 SubLV41 Patron Join Date: Jul 2013 Real Name: Adam Location: Far East Watch: Golden Tuna Posts: 28,780	I love the lightning bolt, it's a reference to the 1950s. __________________ _______________________

16 March 2014, 08:16 AM	#3
Clutch Cargo "TRF" Member Join Date: Mar 2012 Real Name: Lynn Location: Dallas, Texas Posts: 452	Because of the uniqueness of the green crystal. I'm also planning on a DJ II blue stick dial.

16 March 2014, 08:54 AM	#5
judson "TRF" Member Join Date: Sep 2011 Location: USA Watch: changes depending Posts: 800	I understand the funkiness of the secondhand, but I love my Milgauss and think it is one of the more under appreciated watches in the Rolex line up. Not too big at 40mm but the depth of the watch makes it sit proud on the wrist. It has a nice heft and wonderful wrist presence. I bought it as a weekend watch, no date, but now I wear it a few days a week. The lightning bolt represents the history of the watch, and that is a cool reminder to me of its history.

16 March 2014, 01:04 PM	#9
Speed "TRF" Member Join Date: Aug 2009 Location: USA Posts: 19,706	Use to hate it...til I ate it!

16 March 2014, 01:13 PM	#10
Rolex_Collector "TRF" Member Join Date: Dec 2007 Real Name: Frank Location: NY Posts: 169	Lighting bolt is what makes the watch.... Wouldn't touch it I would think you would mind having a Franken more than you would mind the bolt...

16 March 2014, 01:31 PM	#11
Clutch Cargo "TRF" Member Join Date: Mar 2012 Real Name: Lynn Location: Dallas, Texas Posts: 452	My AD also thought that Rolex might have used a model specific mount for the hands, so that only another Milgauss second hand would fit. Can anyone confirm this?

16 March 2014, 02:10 PM	#12
ecsub44 "TRF" Member Join Date: Feb 2011 Location: US Watch: Sub Posts: 3,175	I think the bolt hand is a fundamental aspect of what makes a Milgauss. __________________ *侘寂 -- wabi-sabi --* acceptance of transience and imperfection by finding beauty in that which is imperfect, impermanent, and incomplete Commissioner of WEIRD POLICE , Badge # ecsub44

16 March 2014, 05:51 PM	#14
GradyPhilpott 2024 SubLV41 Pledge Member Join Date: Sep 2008 Location: New Mexico Watch: Seiko #SRK050 Posts: 34,447	When I first saw the lightning bolt second-hand, I thought it was quite silly and couldn't help but wonder if there were any CERN employees and others who might desire the magnetic protection without the cartoonish feature. However, as time has gone by, I've grown accustomed to the look. I need the a watch with the properties of the Milgauss and I doubt that I'd ever buy one just for the lightning bolt. It is a very nice watch, though. __________________ JJ Inaugural TRF $50 Watch Challenge Winner

16 March 2014, 07:45 PM	#15
osamu "TRF" Member Join Date: Nov 2013 Location: Honolulu Posts: 1,322	I didn't like the bolt either at first, but yea it is like what makes it unique. Sometimes though, I wish it was just silver like the original. Is there a way to just take the paint off?

16 March 2014, 09:35 PM	#19
crowncollection "TRF" Member Join Date: Jan 2011 Real Name: David Location: australia Posts: 20,215	Replacing A Milgauss Second Hand No I think choose another watch it is a fundamental feature. __________________ watches many

16 March 2014, 09:41 PM	#20
zion_rasta "TRF" Member Join Date: Jul 2012 Location: Planet Earth Watch: GMT II ceramic Posts: 1,590	Why wouldn't Rolex offer milgauss capability in other models? __________________ Sky Dweller WG 326139 GMT II 116710LN Submariner 1680 Sold - Daytona 116523; YM 116622; Datejust 16233

16 March 2014, 10:14 PM	#21
bparone "TRF" Member Join Date: Dec 2013 Location: Nashville, TN Watch: DSSD, DJII, Smstr Posts: 498	Love the 2nd hand.

17 March 2014, 01:16 AM	#22
Cc1966 "TRF" Member Join Date: Aug 2013 Real Name: Christopher Location: Georgia, USA Watch: ing the Sea... Posts: 6,713	The charm of the Milgauss includes that iconic lightening bolt second hand. If you replace it, it's like pulling it's teeth....IMHO. __________________ "I wish to have no Connection with any Ship that does not Sail fast for I intend to go in harm's way." Captain John Paul Jones, 16 November 1778 "*Curmudgeons* " Favorites: 1665 SD, Sub Date, DSSD, Exp II, Sub LV, GMTIIc

17 March 2014, 01:20 AM	#23
The Joker "TRF" Member Join Date: Sep 2010 Location: Gotham Posts: 9,641	I think it looks good, can't see why it's such a deal breaker. Maybe a rethink.

17 March 2014, 01:21 AM	#25
robisan "TRF" Member Join Date: Nov 2012 Location: PH Posts: 545	If you want a Milgauss with straight second hand then go look for a 1019. It will be hard thou. I'm keeping mine. :)

17 March 2014, 01:51 AM	#28
dw.metro "TRF" Member Join Date: Apr 2012 Location: Vancouver Watch: 16750, 5513, GV Posts: 153	Just like collector cars, always keep it as stock as possible.

Currently Active Users Viewing This Thread: 1 (0 members and 1 guests)