DISCOVER HAMILTON WATCHES WITH H. SAMUEL

From its intriguing military, aviation, and rail heritage, to its blockbuster movie connections and Hollywood fans, the history of Hamilton watches is as fascinating as it is glamorous. Here, we’ll tell you all about Hamilton watches, from the origins of this iconic brand to what makes Hamilton such an internationally respected watchmaker today. And, in case you need a hand narrowing down your options, we’ll also touch on some of our favourite men’s Hamilton watches, and women’s Hamilton watches.

THE HISTORY OF HAMILTON WATCHES

The Hamilton Watch Company was founded in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, in 1892. From the start, Hamilton focussed on producing high-quality and incredibly accurate pocket watches, and soon established a reputation for timekeeping excellence. This was enhanced when Hamilton was branded the ‘Watch of Railroad Accuracy’, as, due to its reliable timekeeping, it helped to substantially reduce railway accidents.

By 1914, the company was designing and manufacturing wristwatches. Such was the reliability of Hamilton watches that they quickly became an official supplier to the U.S. Armed Forces during WWI. This long-standing military connection continued, and during WWII the demand was so high that Hamilton temporarily stopped supplying the general public and instead produced over 1 million timepieces for U.S. troops. So impressed were the U.S. Army and Navy, that Hamilton was granted an Army-Navy “E” Award, to acknowledge its “Excellence in Production”.

Hamilton’s impressive aviation history began in 1918 when a Hamilton watch accompanied the first scheduled US Airmail service between Washington DC and New York. In 1926, a Hamilton was used by Admiral Richard E. Byrd on his flight to become the first aviator to reach the North Pole. And, in the early days of commercial flight, Hamilton was again the watch of choice for many pilots, including those who made the first flight from California to Hawaii in 1927. By the 1930s, Hamilton was the official watch of all four major American commercial airlines. This aviation legacy is still reflected in many of Hamilton’s modern-day designs.

Throughout its history, Hamilton has been involved in some of the most significant breakthroughs in watchmaking history. In 1957 they launched Ventura, the world's first electrical battery-powered watch, a unique and unconventional model that is still a favourite today. In 1969, they played a key role in producing the first automatic chronograph movement and, in 1970, they unveiled the world’s first LED digital wristwatch. This impressive brand has been at the forefront of ground-breaking watchmaking developments since 1892, and long may this continue.

HAMILTON AND HOLLYWOOD, THE MOVIE MAKERS’ CHOICE

Hamilton has had a strong association with Hollywood filmmakers and the silver screen since its early days and, remarkably, Hamilton watches have 'starred' in over 500 major movies since 1932. The impressive list includes a Khaki Field being worn by Captain America star, Chris Evans, in The Avengers, and by Ben Affleck in Pearl Harbour, a Ventura being worn by Will Smith in Men in Black, as well as frequently seen on the wrist of Elvis Presley, a Khaki Aviation worn by Matthew McConaughey in Interstellar and by Liam Hemsworth in Independence Day, and a Khaki Navy worn by Matt Damon in The Martian, to name but a few!

WHAT ARE THE MOVEMENTS BEHIND HAMILTON WATCHES?

Over a hundred years ago, Hamilton started designing and producing beautifully precise mechanical movements in-house. Their reputation for quality and accuracy is clearly shown by Hamilton designs being the watches of choice for pilots, train drivers, and military personnel, all of whom operated in time-critical situations.

Watch enthusiasts have long admired the company’s hand-wound mechanical, automatic and quartz movements which, to this day, continue to be expertly crafted to exacting standards. Since relocating to its current Swiss base in Biel, Hamilton have collaborated with ETA to produce their own personalised ETA automatic movements. ETA movements are highly regarded and have been used by some of the world’s most prestigious watch brands, including Omega, Breitling and TAG Heuer.

WHERE ARE HAMILTON WATCHES MADE?

In 1974, Swiss company SSIH, which also owns Omega and Tissot and went on to become known as The Swatch Company, acquired Hamilton. By late 2003, they had moved the company’s headquarters and all production to the homeland of luxury watchmaking, Switzerland. This explains why current models are emblazoned with ‘Swiss Made’.

HOW GOOD ARE HAMILTON WATCHES?

The simple answer to this question is a resounding ‘outstanding’! With an unbeatable combination of classically stylish designs, exceptional precision and innovative functionality, Hamilton offers Swiss-made luxury at a fantastic price. Not only are their designs delightful to look at, but they are incredibly tough and, with a little TLC, will last a lifetime and beyond.

WHERE TO BUY HAMILTON WATCHES

H.Samuel is delighted to stock a wide range of men's Hamilton watches and women’s Hamilton watches. From sporty, statement designs to sleek, sophisticated models, you’ll be sure to find the perfect watch to suit your taste and budget. To help you narrow down your options, here are some of our favourite Hamilton collections:

FINDING THE RIGHT HAMILTON WATCH FOR YOU

Hamilton is a world-class producer of exceptional watches of the highest quality. So, whether you’re looking for your dream designer watch or the perfect gift for a loved one, you’ll be spoilt for choice with the Hamilton collection at H.Samuel. If you have any questions or would like a hand choosing the perfect model to suit your taste and lifestyle, why not book a free virtual appointment, with one of our friendly team who’ll be happy to help.