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Hamilton Watches

American

In an era when the safety of America’s bustling railroads absolutely depended on accurate timepieces for its conductors, watchmaker Hamilton pioneered cutting-edge, impossibly precise watches in a complex that spanned one square city block of Lancaster, Pennsylvania, during the late 19th century.

As railroad tracks were laid across the United States and steam locomotives began traversing vast distances, the American railroad system ran into a problem. Back then, time was not standardized across the country. Therefore, in 1883, the railroad companies established the four time zones as we know them today. But, despite setting these zones, train conductors were not always synchronized, leading to deadly accidents on the railroads.

Enter watchmaker Hamilton, founded in 1892. Railway workers would be required to wear a pocket watch, as the timepieces were responsible for keeping conductors on schedule, and the watchmaking industry — and early American pocket-watch manufacturers such as Hamilton, Elgin National Watch Company and the Waltham Watch Company — benefitted.

Hamilton’s pocket watches were extremely alluring to train conductors, who began buying them en masse. The East Coast company’s timepieces eventually earned the moniker “The Watch of Railroad Accuracy.”

Hamilton transitioned from pocket watches to wristwatches in 1914, as it supplied timepieces to American troops fighting in World War I. Wristwatches, naturally, were more convenient to wear and use in battle. The new style of watch was also appealing to aviators, and Hamilton aeronautical watches became all the rage among pilots, specifically those flying for the new U.S. Airmail service.

The general public’s interest in Hamilton watches grew rapidly in the 1920s. Legendary polar explorer Admiral Richard E. Byrd timed his historic flights over glaciers and chunks of sea ice with a Hamilton pocket watch in the late 1920s, and a Hamilton timepiece used by Byrd during these expeditions went on display in 2018 at the National Watch & Clock Museum.

Hamilton’s Piping Rock watch, an Art Deco–inspired design that featured elegant Roman numerals set in black for the hour markers, made its debut in 1928 and was gifted to the New York Yankees to celebrate their World Series win that year. The model was also featured in the film Shanghai Express alongside the brand’s Flintridge watch, further expanding Hamilton’s popularity. (Hamilton watches can also be seen in the films The Frogmen, Blue Hawaii, 2001: A Space Odyssey and Men in Black.)

In the second half of the 20th century, Hamilton became well known for several innovations: It developed the first-ever battery-operated electric watch, the Ventura, in 1957, as well as the first-ever digital wristwatch, the Hamilton Pulsar Time Computer, in 1970. Three years later, superspy and watch enthusiast James Bond donned a Pulsar in Live and Let Die.

Today, the company is part of the Swatch Group, and its headquarters and production facilities relocated from Pennsylvania to Switzerland in 2003.

Find vintage Hamilton watches for sale on 1stDibs.

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Creator: Hamilton
Hamilton Railroad Grade U.S. Ordinance Pocket Watch w Original Packaging
By Hamilton
Located in Mount Kisco, NY
With original issued packaging and in operating condition, this interesting timepiece dates back circa 1960 Vietnam era. Issued by U.S. Army Ordinance Department 6645-679-821, this s...
Category

1960s American Vintage Hamilton Watches

Materials

Steel

Fine Art Deco Hamilton 4.8 Carat Diamond Platinum Dress Watch
By Hamilton
Located in New York, NY
Elegant Art Deco period Hamilton platinum, 4.8 TCW diamond dress watch with a wide double row platinum and diamond bracelet band, high style X-form diamond details and substantial baguette and round cut diamond accents. For nearly a century, Hamilton watches have been associated with the glamour of Hollywood. In 1932, the inimitable Marlene Deitrich was the first to wear a Hamilton watch on-screen in the film Shanghai Express. Elvis Presley wore the iconic Hamilton Ventura...
Category

20th Century American Art Deco Hamilton Watches

Materials

Diamond, Platinum

Hamilton Mid-Century Modern 14k White Gold & Diamond Ladies Watch
By Hamilton
Located in Philadelphia, PA
A fine Mid-Century Modern Hamilton ladies' watch. In 14 karat white gold. Bezel-set with diamonds to the lugs on each side and set with a thin white gold link band. Marked to the ...
Category

Mid-20th Century American Hamilton Watches

Materials

Diamond, 14k Gold, White Gold

Antique Art Deco Platinum 3.72ctw Old Diamond Fancy Wrist Watch Bracelet
By Hamilton
Located in Montclair, NJ
--Stone(s):-- (95) Natural Genuine Diamonds - Old Round Cut - Bezel & Pave Set - G/H Color - VS1/VS2 Clarity - 1.98ctw (approx.) (12) Natural Genuine Diamonds - Baguette Cut - Channe...
Category

1920s American Art Deco Vintage Hamilton Watches

Materials

Diamond, White Gold, Platinum

Lady Hamilton 14 Karat White Gold Cocktail Wrist Watch w Diamond Accents
By Hamilton
Located in Mount Kisco, NY
Unmistakable elegance from the mid-20th century, enjoy this ultra feminine Lady Hamilton Cocktail Wrist Watch Model 761 in 14 karat white gold with diamonds accents. Delicate slim l...
Category

Mid-20th Century American Hamilton Watches

Materials

Diamond, 14k Gold, White Gold

Art Deco Hamilton Platinum Diamond Ladies Watch
By Hamilton
Located in New York, NY
A stunning creation by Hamilton, this exquisite timepiece showcases a captivating array of sparkling diamonds. The watch face is elegantly framed by a series of round and baguette-cu...
Category

Mid-20th Century Art Deco Hamilton Watches

Materials

Diamond, Platinum

Vintage Hamilton 6645 Steel US Army Wrist Watch
By Hamilton
Located in Mount Kisco, NY
The Hamilton 6645 Steel US Army Wrist Watch was first introduced to military personnel during the Vietnam era. The identical watch continued in production until February 1982. This ...
Category

1980s American Vintage Hamilton Watches

Materials

Steel

Ladies Hamilton 14k Yellow Gold Mechanical Wrist Watch Bracelet w/ Diamond Bezel
By Hamilton
Located in Montclair, NJ
Watchmaker: Hamilton Movement: Mechanical Hand Winding - 22 Jewels - Caliber 767 Case Material: Solid 14k Yellow Gold Case Width: 14mm (not counting the crown) Case Thickness: 7.4mm ...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Hamilton Watches

Materials

Diamond, Yellow Gold

Vintage Scarce Hamilton White Gold "Ventura" Electric Wrist Watch
By Hamilton
Located in Chicago, IL
Circa 1960 Scarce and hard to find Hamilton Electric Ventura Wrist watch, 49 x 31 M.M. 2 piece 14k White Gold case with its eccentric flared lug tops. Hamilton 505 Electric movement,...
Category

1960s American Modernist Vintage Hamilton Watches

Materials

14k Gold, White Gold

1940's Hamilton Gordon 18K Yellow Gold Watch Manual Men's Watch #15797
By Hamilton
Located in Washington Depot, CT
1940's Hamilton Gordon Men's Watch' This vintage Hamilton men's watch is set in 18K yellow gold. Case is approx. 22mm x 37mm Hand winding movement Sil...
Category

1940s Vintage Hamilton Watches

Materials

Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Silver

Vintage Hamilton "Top Hat" White Gold mechanical Wrist watch
By Hamilton
Located in Chicago, IL
Circa 1940s Art Deco Hamilton "Top Hat" Wrist Watch, 38 M.M. x 22 M.M. 14k White Gold 2 piece case, Covered lugs with Ribbed Design, Caliber 725, 17 Jewel mechanical, manual wind mov...
Category

1940s American Art Deco Vintage Hamilton Watches

Materials

Diamond, 14k Gold, White Gold

Hamilton Brass Pocket Watch with Display Back
By Hamilton
Located in Mount Kisco, NY
Enjoy seeing the craftsmanship in this Hamilton 917 Brass Pocket Watch, expertly restored with a unique display back allowing the intricate parts of this ...
Category

Mid-20th Century American Hamilton Watches

Materials

Brass

Hamilton 2 Open Face Men's Pocket Watch - White Gold 14k Grade 912 Size 12s
By Hamilton
Located in Greensboro, NC
Brand: Hamilton Model: 2 Number of Jewels: 17 Year: 1931 Dial Color: Silver Grade: 912 Size: 12s Metal Content: 14k White Gold Style: Open Face Features: Numbers marking the hour...
Category

1930s Vintage Hamilton Watches

Materials

14k Gold, White Gold

Hamilton Watch Company of Lancaster, PA, circa 1915
By Hamilton
Located in Los Angeles, CA
This is a lovely antique yellow gold-filled Hamilton pocket watch made by the Hamilton Watch Company of Lancaster, PA circa 1915. Case#179832 Thi...
Category

Early 20th Century American Edwardian Hamilton Watches

Materials

Gold-filled

Vintage Hamilton Gold-Filled Tonneau Watch with Black Leather Band
By Hamilton
Located in Van Nuys, CA
Case # H857441. Manual movement # 987A0421050. Weight: 26.5 grams. Does not include original box or papers. This watch is guaranteed authentic. One year warranty included with purcha...
Category

20th Century American Modern Hamilton Watches

Materials

Gold-filled

1910's Hamilton Gold-Filled Antique Open Face Pocket Watch, Size 16S
By Hamilton
Located in Van Nuys, CA
Beautiful antique Hamilton pocket watch with white dial. Blue hands and a dedicated seconds dial. Gold-filled case with no design on case. Black numbers and markers. Case serial # 22...
Category

1910s American Modern Vintage Hamilton Watches

Materials

Gold-filled

14k Hamilton Diamond Watch. Vintage Ladies Hamilton Classic String Wristwatch
By Hamilton
Located in Port Charlotte, FL
Stunning watch piece. Hamilton fully mechanical wristwatch. 14k White Gold Case with multiple diamonds. 14k White Gold Kreiser Cable Band. Condition: Watch winds up and ticks. Needs...
Category

1940s Vintage Hamilton Watches

Materials

Diamond, 14k Gold, Gold-filled, White Gold

Hamilton 14k Yellow gold watch. Heavy 14k Ladies Mid-Century Mechanic watch.
By Hamilton
Located in Port Charlotte, FL
Heavy 14k Yellow Gold Hamilton watch with 14k Yellow Gold double stand chevron link bracelet. Hamilton 17J 750 Movement in a 14k Square case. Beautiful heavy bulky design. Condition...
Category

Mid-20th Century Hamilton Watches

Materials

Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold

Hamilton 1961 Pacermatic Rare Automatic Gold filled Wrist Watch
By Hamilton
Located in Chicago, IL
Circa 1961 Hamilton "Pacermatic" the very Rare Automatic version of the Pacer Wrist Watch, 45 X 31 M.M. 10K Yellow and White Gold Filled 2 piece case. Grade 667, 17 jewel Automatic, ...
Category

1960s American Modernist Vintage Hamilton Watches

Materials

Gold-filled

Hamilton 10k Gold Filled Wristwatch with Brown Leather Band, 21mm
By Hamilton
Located in Van Nuys, CA
Manual Movement #753. Movement Serial #6728F. Case #S856369. Weight: 26.1 grams. Does not include the original box or paperwork. This watch is guaranteed authentic. One year warranty...
Category

1950s Vintage Hamilton Watches

Materials

10k Gold, Gold-filled

Hamilton Watch Co. Gold Filled Grade 910 Open Face Pocket Watch
By Hamilton
Located in Dallas, TX
Hamilton Watch Co. Gold Filled Grade 910 Open Face Pocket Watch - Manual; 17 jewels . Gold Filled (47 mm) . White dial with Arabic numerals; sub dial at 6 o'clock. Pre-owned with cus...
Category

20th Century American Hamilton Watches

Antique Open Face Silver Hamilton Pocket Watch with Display
By Hamilton
Located in Wallkill, NY
Wonderful Hamilton open face Pocket Watch - Manufacturer Location: Lancaster, Pennsylvania -Movement Serial Number: 679688 - Mar 1, 191...
Category

1910s American Art Nouveau Vintage Hamilton Watches

Materials

Silver

Lady's 14k White Gold Vintage Hamilton Watch
By Hamilton
Located in Addison, TX
For a fancy night out, or a casual evening this watch is great for elegant touch to your appearance. This vintage 14K White gold watch and 14K wh...
Category

Early 20th Century North American Art Deco Hamilton Watches

Materials

Diamond, White Gold, 14k Gold

Hamilton Vintage Pacer Electric Wrist Watch
By Hamilton
Located in Chicago, IL
Circa 1960 Hamilton Pacer Wrist Watch 45 M.M X 32 M.M. 10k Gold Filled two piece case. Hamilton 500 Electric Movement, Original Black Dial with Raised Gold markers, original Hands....
Category

1960s American Vintage Hamilton Watches

Materials

Gold-filled

Diamond Adorned Vintage Hamilton Watch
By Hamilton
Located in Addison, TX
Beautiful 14K white gold link-style bracelet pairs with the vintage Hamilton mechanical wind wristwatch effortlessly for an elegant look. This piec...
Category

Early 20th Century North American Art Deco Hamilton Watches

Materials

Diamond, Platinum

Hamilton Diamond Hidden Watch
By Hamilton
Located in New York, NY
Hamilton Diamond Hidden Watch A Hamilton watch adorned with round and baguette-cut diamonds. Approximate Diamond Weight: 6.52 carats Approximate Lengt...
Category

20th Century Unknown Art Deco Hamilton Watches

Materials

Diamond, Platinum

Hamilton 14Kt Solid Gold Ladies Art Deco Tonneau Shaped Watch 1930's
By Hamilton
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Hamilton Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Art Deco / Tonneau Shape METAL / MATERIAL: 14Kt Solid Gold CIRCA / YEAR: 1930's DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Length 31mm X Width 16mm...
Category

1930s American Art Deco Vintage Hamilton Watches

Materials

14k Gold

14K White Gold Ornate Vintage Hamilton Watch
By Hamilton
Located in Addison, TX
Created by Hamilton, this vintage watch gives off a luxurious feel. The 14K white gold link style bracelet pairs elegantly to the 14k white gold wind wris...
Category

Early 20th Century North American Art Deco Hamilton Watches

Materials

Diamond, White Gold, 14k Gold

Art Deco 14K White Gold Hamilton 2.5ctw Diamond Watch 22.1g
By Hamilton
Located in Addison, TX
Presenting a: Vintage Art Deco 14K White Gold Hamilton 2.5ctw Diamond Watch 6.4" 22.1g Natural Diamonds approximately 2.5ct total. Measures .60" wide ...
Category

1960s Unknown Art Deco Vintage Hamilton Watches

Hamilton 14Kt Solid White Gold Ladies Art Deco Watch circa 1950's
By Hamilton
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Hamilton Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Art Deco METAL / MATERIAL: 14Kt. Solid White Gold CIRCA / YEAR: 1950's DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Length 36mm X Width 14 MOVEMENT /...
Category

1950s American Art Deco Vintage Hamilton Watches

Materials

White Gold

Hamilton Yellow Gold Wristwatch
By Hamilton
Located in Stamford, CT
1950's Hamilton 14k yellow gold wristwatch. Rectangle dial with 9 row mesh 14k yellow gold band with a fold over safety buckle. Full one year se...
Category

Mid-20th Century Hamilton Watches

Materials

Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold

Hamilton White Gold Filled Art Deco Watch circa 1931 with Original Dial & Hands
By Hamilton
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Hamilton Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Art Deco / Octagon Shape METAL / MATERIAL: White Gold Filled CIRCA / YEAR: 1931 DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Length 29mm X Width 34mm...
Category

1930s American Art Deco Vintage Hamilton Watches

Materials

Gold-filled, White Gold

Hamilton 14Kt White Gold "Spur" Watch circa 1920's
By Hamilton
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Hamilton Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Art Deco / Reference "Spur" METAL / MATERIAL: 14Kt White Gold / Kiln Fired Enamel Print CIRCA / YEAR: 1920's DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Length 27mm X Diameter 34mm MOVEMENT / CALIBER: Manual Winding / 19 Jewels / Caliber 979 DIAL / HANDS: Original Sterling Silver with Kiln Fired Enamel Print / Blued Steel Hands ATTACHMENT / BRACELET: Leather, 12mm / Regular Length WARRANTY: 18 months on the movement LIFETIME SERVICE COMMITMENT Yikes... we never see this model and have only seen a few in the last 50 years, and never one with what appears to be the original box. This was one of Hamiltons most legendary wristwatches and it is exceptional condition. Since it has been in a vault for about 50 years the price includes a factory quality service by our finest watchmaker. Asymmetrical models are among the most sought after wrist watches in the vintage world. Hamilton produced one of the earliest and most intriguing examples, which they called the "Spur" for obvious reasons. it was first introduced in 1928, the Spur remained in production until 1932. Oddly, it only appeared in the Hamilton catalogs for a single year, 1930. It can be presumed that the "Great Depression" had something to do with this. This rare timepiece boasts a distinctive case with a black enamel bezel. The Spur started a trend with Hamiltion and they next produced the "Piping Rock" models. The Spur has hidden lugs that are tucked behind a series of cascading fins, creating a truly unique design. A tiny watch, even by vintage standards, the Spur features a delicate 12mm strap. Originally priced at $125, production numbers were limited, with a total of 1,183 pieces created: 683 in white gold, 499 in yellow gold, and a single, elusive example in green gold. Just two years later, in 1928, Hamilton introduced another groundbreaking design: the "Piping Rock." This watch featured a tonneau-shaped gold case with a striking black enamel bezel. Its unique aesthetic captured the attention of the era, and it was chosen to commemorate the New York Yankees' World Series victory that same year. Specially engraved editions were presented to legendary players like Lou Gehrig and Babe Ruth, solidifying the Piping Rock's place in Hamilton's history of iconic timepieces. HAMILTON HISTORY The wrong train, on the wrong track, at the wrong time at the end of the 19th century frequently resulted in disastrous train wrecks. In response to the critical need for accuracy on the nation’s railroads, laws were passed in 1891 establishing set standards of accuracy. All engineers and railroad workers were required to purchase and maintain their watches to keep accurate time based on set standards, about 30 seconds per week was the tolerance. This was the inspiration for The Hamilton Watch Company which was founded in 1892 in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. The company was started by a group of investors who were looking to create a high-quality, American-made watch. Hamilton quickly became a leading manufacturer of pocket watches, and by the early 1900s, the company was supplying watches to the US military. In 1917, Hamilton introduced its first wristwatch for service men entering the first World War. The wristwatch quickly became popular with both soldiers and civilians recognizing how practical they were. Hamilton continued to grow throughout the 1920s and 1930s, and by the 1940s, the company was one of the largest watchmakers in the world. Hamilton had exceptional engineers and designers, and their watches were elegantly styled as well as dependable. As a watchmaker myself I consider Hamilton to be one of the worlds “best” watches. It was mass produced perfection. Even today, you can take 100 old Hamilton’s of the same model apart and shake them up in a bag and reassemble 100 watches that will work perfectly with almost no adjustment. This is an achievement. In the early 1930’s our family store in Los Angeles was the a “Hamilton” Store. Even during the depression though Hamilton did not allow you to discount the price to sell a watch. Also, in the neighborhood was another Hamilton store and one day the owner sent in a “shill” to buy a Hamilton from us. Someone gave them a slight discount. Well, that was all it took for Hamilton to “pull the line” from us. In those days the local jewelry supply houses sold you the watches and they were all told not to sell to us. We simply contacted Gruen, and they were very excited to have a new account in Los Angeles and we immediately became a Gruen Store. A few months later, the other jeweler in the neighborhood went out of business and Hamilton came back to us asking if we wanted “the line” again. No thanks was the response and we never carried Hamilton again. During World War II, Hamilton supplied watches to the US military again. In addition, with contracts for the Navy, they produced the world’s most accurate navigational chronometers. The company also developed several new technologies for use in military watches. After the war, Hamilton continued to innovate, and the company introduced several new watch designs for the future. Unfortunately, they made one very poor executive decision in the 1950’s. Having invented the first “electric” or battery watch they decided to launch it before all the “bugs'' were worked out. Too many of them failed and at the same time, Bulova launched their version of the electric, or battery watch called the Accutron. It did not fail and that was the demise of one of America's most successful and influential companies. Their watches, however, still live on and parts are available and the average Hamilton, with only average care, will last hundreds of years. Their commitment to excellence has never been surpassed by any watch company. The Hamilton Spur...
Category

1920s American Art Deco Vintage Hamilton Watches

Materials

White Gold

Hamilton Yellow Gold and Diamond Set 1940s Top Hat Wristwatch
By Hamilton
Located in Chicago, IL
Circa 1940s Hamilton "Top Hat" Model Wrist Watch, 39 X 21 MM 14K Yellow Gold 2 Piece case. 17 Jewel Grade 980 mechanical, manual wind movement. Silver Satin dial with White Gold Dia...
Category

1940s American Art Deco Vintage Hamilton Watches

Materials

14k Gold, Yellow Gold

Hamilton Yellow Gold Filled Art Deco Tank Watch with Original Dial Early 40's
By Hamilton
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Hamilton Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Art Deco / Tank Style METAL / MATERIAL: Yellow Gold Filled CIRCA / YEAR: Early 1940's DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Length 35mm x Wid...
Category

1940s American Art Deco Vintage Hamilton Watches

Hamilton Yellow Gold Filled Art Deco Watch circa 1940 with Original Buckle
By Hamilton
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Hamilton Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Vincent / Art Deco METAL / MATERIAL: Yellow Gold Filled CIRCA / YEAR: 1940 DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Length 25mm X Width 38mm MOV...
Category

1940s American Art Deco Vintage Hamilton Watches

Materials

Gold-filled, Yellow Gold

Hamilton Yellow Gold Filled Art Deco Tank Style with Original Dial from 1940's
By Hamilton
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Hamilton Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Art Deco / The Adrian METAL / MATERIAL: Yellow Gold Filled CIRCA / YEAR: 1940's DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Length 25mm X Width 37mm...
Category

1940s American Art Deco Vintage Hamilton Watches

Materials

Gold-filled

Hamilton 14K Solid White Gold Art Deco Watch with Presentation Back from 1932
By Hamilton
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Hamilton Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Art Deco / Reference Andrews METAL / MATERIAL: 14K Solid White Gold CIRCA / YEAR: 1932 DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Length 23mm X Width 37mm MOVEMENT / CALIBER: Manual Winding / 19 Jewels / Caliber 401 DIAL / HANDS: Sterling Silver with Luminous Arabic Numerals / Blued Steel Luminous Hands ATTACHMENT / LENGTH: Leather, 16mm / Regular Length WARRANTY: 18 months on the movement LIFETIME SERVICE COMMITMENT This is a rare model by the legendary American House of Hamilton, from Lancaster Pennsylvania. This watch was presented in 1932 to the winner of an amateur Skeet Shooting Contest in 1932 in Dayton Ohio. It is in excellent original condition and is still fitted with an original period strap and buckle, however the strap is too fragile to wear all the time so we put a new lizard strap on it and the original buckle. The dial is done in Sterling Silver with Kiln Fired Enamel Printing on it. Only the finest Swiss watches like Patek Philippe...
Category

1930s American Art Deco Vintage Hamilton Watches

Materials

White Gold

Hamilton Cocktail Watch Platinum and Diamonds
By Hamilton
Located in New York, NY
This is an elegant Hamilton Platinum and diamond Cocktail watch from the 1950's. The case and lugs are decorated with 2.30CT-TW F-VVS/VS of round and baguette cut diamonds.  The cas...
Category

1950s Swiss Retro Vintage Hamilton Watches

Materials

Diamond, Platinum

Hamilton 1950's Cocktail Watch Platinum and Diamond
By Hamilton
Located in New York, NY
This is an elegant Hamilton Platinum and diamond Cocktail watch from the 1950's. The case and lugs are decorated with 2.30CT-TW F-VVS/VS of round and baguette cut diamonds. The case...
Category

1950s American Retro Vintage Hamilton Watches

Materials

Diamond, Platinum

HAMILTON Automatic Watch. 10k rgp Round Hamilton Day 'n Date 6001 wristwatch.
By Hamilton
Located in Port Charlotte, FL
Vintage from the 1970s Band Material: Stainless steel Materials: Gold Power: Mechanical Readout: Analog Rare 1970s Hamilton Day 'n Date 6001 Automatic Mechanical Wristwatch. 10k RG...
Category

Early 2000s Hamilton Watches

Hamilton 14KT Yellow Gold Calatrava Watch Caliber 770
By Hamilton
Located in New York, NY
Introducing the timeless elegance of the Hamilton 1950s 14kt Gold 33mm Round Case with Extended Lugs Watch. This vintage masterpiece exudes sophistication with its classic round case...
Category

1960s American Retro Vintage Hamilton Watches

Materials

Yellow Gold

1960s Vintage Hamilton Diamond Platinum Ladies Cocktail Watch
By Hamilton
Located in Miami, FL
This Vintage Hamilton Ladie's cocktail is watch crafted in solid Platinum. With an off-white dial & silver-tone hand markers. Manual mechanical winding movement. It with A round diam...
Category

1960s Swiss Retro Vintage Hamilton Watches

Materials

Diamond, Platinum

HAMILTON THIN o MATIC Watch. 14k Yellow Gold Round Hamilton wristwatch. Hamilton
By Hamilton
Located in Port Charlotte, FL
Vintage from the 1970s Band Material: Stainless steel Materials: Gold Power: Mechanical Readout: Analog Rare 1970s Hamilton Thin-O-Matic Mechanical Wristwatch. 14k Yellow Gold case...
Category

Early 2000s Hamilton Watches

Materials

Yellow Gold

Hamilton Cocktail Platinum Silver dial Manual watch
By Hamilton
Located in Surfside, FL
Vintage Hamilton Cocktail watch in platinum diamond case and 14k white gold diamond bracelet. Manual wind Fine Pre-owned Hamilton Watch. Fits up to 7 inches wrist. Comes with a secur...
Category

16th Century Antique Hamilton Watches

Materials

Diamond, Platinum

Art Deco Diamond Onyx Platinum Cocktail Watch by Hamilton
By Hamilton
Located in Jesmond, Newcastle Upon Tyne
An impressive vintage Art Deco 0.95 carat diamond and black onyx, platinum cocktail watch by 'Hamilton'; part of our diverse antique jewelry and estate jewelry collections. This impressive vintage Art Deco diamond watch has been crafted in platinum. The watch has a rectangular dial with plain black Arabic hour numerals displayed within rectangular designs, the outer one marked as the chapter ring. The Art Deco watch is fitted with shaped, blued steel hands, and the face clearly displays the text 'Hamilton'. The crown/winder of this manual wind watch is plain and unembellished. The watch bezel and lugs are embellished with thirty-six pavé set eight-cut diamonds, and ornamented with two shaped black onyx panels. This fine vintage diamond cocktail watch is fitted with a platinum gold bootlace style strap which secures to the reverse with a plain flip clasp. The watch is fitted with a Swiss 17 jewels...
Category

1940s Unknown Art Deco Vintage Hamilton Watches

Materials

Diamond, Onyx, Platinum

Antique Hamilton Diamond Platinum Ladies Cocktail Watch
By Hamilton
Located in Miami, FL
This Antique Hamilton Ladie's cocktail is watch crafted in solid Platinum. With an off-white dial & silver-tone hand markers. Manual mechanical windin...
Category

1950s American Retro Vintage Hamilton Watches

Materials

Diamond, Platinum

Hamilton Ladies Watch
By Hamilton
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Hamilton Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Art Deco Dress Watch METAL / MATERIAL: Platinum CIRCA / YEAR: 1940's DIMENSIONS / SIZE: 33mm Length X 17mm Diameter MOVEMEN...
Category

1940s American Vintage Hamilton Watches

Materials

Platinum

Hamilton 14 Karat Solid Gold Art Deco Ladies Diamond Dress Watch from 1940s
By Hamilton
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Hamilton Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Art Deco / Bracelet Watch METAL / MATERIAL: 14Kt. Solid Gold CIRCA / YEAR: 1940's DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Length 34mm X Width 14mm MOVEMENT / CALIBER: Manual Winding / 17 Jewels / Caliber 750 DIAL / HANDS: Original Silvered with Mixed Makers / Blued Steel Hands ATTACHMENT / LENGTH: 6mm Width / 6" Length or 15.3cm WARRANTY: 18 months on the movement This elegant ladies diamond dress watch This unique art deco ladies diamond dress watch has just been serviced by our team and keeps dependable time. Hamilton is a legendary American house/ Hamilton pocket watches are renowned for their accuracy since 1892. They were the most reliable pocket watches...
Category

1940s Swiss Art Deco Vintage Hamilton Watches

Ladies White Gold Hamilton 2 Carat Natural F Color Diamond Manual Cocktail Watch
By Hamilton
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Rare Hamilton Collectable Ladies 14k White Gold with approximately 2 Carats of Natural Diamond Manual Wind Cocktail Watch. It is set with 52 natural colorless diamonds weighing approximately 2 carats, the watch itself weighs 18.9 grams and is 6" inches in length. Condition is Pre-owned. No original box, No original papers. Ladies White Gold Hamilton 2 Carat Natural F Color Diamond...
Category

1940s American Retro Vintage Hamilton Watches

Materials

Diamond, 14k Gold, White Gold

Hamilton White Gold Filled Art Deco Watch With "A.N to H.B" Engraved circa 1920s
By Hamilton
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Hamilton Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Art deco / Square METAL / MATERIAL: White Gold Filled CIRCA / YEAR: 1920's DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Length 28mm X Width 34mm MOVE...
Category

1920s American Art Deco Vintage Hamilton Watches

Materials

Gold-filled

Hamilton 14k Yellow Gold Vintage Men's Hand-Winding Watch W/ Leather Band
By Hamilton
Located in Sherman Oaks, CA
Hamilton 14k Yellow Gold Vintage Men's Hand-Winding Watch w/ Leather Band Movement #735 Case #S960310 14k Yellow Gold Round Case with Sapphire Accent Crown 34 mm in Diameter (36 mm...
Category

1960s Swiss Modern Vintage Hamilton Watches

Materials

14k Gold, Yellow Gold

Hamilton Platinum Art Deco Ladies Watch with Cord Band or Matching Metal Band
By Hamilton
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Hamilton Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Art Deco / Cushion Shape METAL / MATERIAL: Platinum / 1.25 Cts. CIRCA / YEAR: 1940's DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Length 51mm X Wid...
Category

1940s American Art Deco Vintage Hamilton Watches

Hamilton Yellow Gold Filled Round Dress Watch with Original Dial 1950's
By Hamilton
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Hamilton Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Modern / Dress Style METAL / MATERIAL: Yellow Gold-Filled CIRCA / YEAR: 1950's DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Length 33mm X Diameter 2...
Category

1950s American Modernist Vintage Hamilton Watches

Materials

Gold-filled

Hamilton Platinum Art Deco Tank Style 1940's with Medallion Series Movement.
By Hamilton
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Hamilton Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Art Deco / Tank Style METAL / MATERIAL: Platinum CIRCA / YEAR: 1940's DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Length 37mm X Width 22mm MOVEMENT...
Category

1940s American Art Deco Vintage Hamilton Watches

Materials

Platinum

Hamilton Gold Filled Art Deco Curvex Style with Original Silver Dial 1930's
By Hamilton
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Hamilton Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Curvex METAL / MATERIAL: Yellow Gold Filled CIRCA / YEAR: 1930's DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Length 22mm X Width 44mm MOVEMENT / CA...
Category

1930s American Art Deco Vintage Hamilton Watches

Hamilton 1969 Liberty Coin Watch 14K Gold
By Hamilton
Located in New York, NY
Introducing the Vintage Hamilton 1969 Liberty Coin 14kt Gold Watch, a timeless treasure capturing the essence of mid-century elegance. Encased in a lux...
Category

1960s American Retro Vintage Hamilton Watches

Materials

14k Gold

Hamilton Ladies Platinum Art Deco Evening Watch Gold Diamond Bracelet 1940's
By Hamilton
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Hamilton Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Art Deco / Evening Dress Watch METAL / MATERIAL: Platinum & 14Kt. Gold Bracelet CIRCA / YEAR: 1940's DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Length 50mm X Diameter 14mm MOVEMENT / CALIBER: Manual Winding / 22 Jewels / Caliber 757 DIAL / HANDS: White Dial with Silver Markers / Silver Hands ATTACHMENT / LENGTH: Gold Diamond Bracelet / 5 7/8 Inches or 15cm WARRANTY: 18 months on the movement LIFETIME SERVICE COMMITMENT This great looking all original Art Deco Watch is all original and produced by the legendary American House of Hamilton. The watch has just been given a factory quality service by our finest watchmaker and keeps dependable time. We seldom see diamond dress watches in this condition. This one is very elegant and in exceptional condition with 1.75cts. of VS Diamonds. If you are looking for a spectacular watch for special evenings The wrong train, on the wrong track, at the wrong time at the end of the 19th century frequently resulted in disastrous train wrecks. In response to the critical need for accuracy on the nation’s railroads, laws were passed in 1891 establishing set standards of accuracy. All engineers and railroad workers were required to purchase and maintain their watches to keep accurate time based on set standards, about 30 seconds per week was the tolerance. This was the inspiration for The Hamilton Watch Company which was founded in 1892 in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. The company was started by a group of investors who were looking to create a high-quality, American-made watch. Hamilton quickly became a leading manufacturer of pocket watches, and by the early 1900s, the company was supplying watches to the US military. In 1917, Hamilton introduced its first wristwatch for service men entering the first World War. The wristwatch quickly became popular with both soldiers and civilians recognizing how practical they were. Hamilton continued to grow throughout the 1920s and 1930s, and by the 1940s, the company was one of the largest watchmakers in the world. Hamilton had exceptional engineers and designers and their watches were elegantly styled as well as dependable. As a watchmaker myself I consider Hamilton to be one of the worlds “best” watches. It was mass produced perfection. Even today, you can take 100 old Hamilton’s of the same model apart and shake them up in a bag and reassemble 100 watches that will work perfectly with almost no adjustment. This is an achievement. In the early 1930’s our family store in Los Angeles was the a “Hamilton” Store. Even during the depression though Hamilton did not allow you to discount the price to sell a watch. Also, in the neighborhood was another Hamilton store and one day the owner sent in a “shill” to buy a Hamilton from us. Someone gave them a slight discount. Well, that was all it took for Hamilton to “pull the line” from us. In those days the local jewelry supply houses sold you the watches and they were all told not to sell to us. We simply contacted Gruen, and they were very excited to have a new account...
Category

1940s American Art Deco Vintage Hamilton Watches

Hamilton watches for sale on 1stDibs.

Find a range of Hamilton watches available on 1stDibs. Each of these unique items was designed with extraordinary care, often using gold. While looking for the most stylish antique or vintage Hamilton jewelry to pair with your ensemble, you’ll find that Hamilton diamond watches, from our inventory of 32, can add a particularly distinctive touch to your look. We have 90 pieces in this collection as well as a number of other designs by this jeweler. While this collection reflects work that originated over various time periods, most of these items were designed during the 20th century. If you’re looking for additional options, many customers also consider watches by Elgin, Waltham, and Bulova. Prices for Hamilton watches can differ depending upon gemstone, time period and other attributes. On 1stDibs, the price for these items starts at $310 and tops out at $18,000, while pieces like these, on average, can sell for $2,440.
Questions About Hamilton Watches
  • 1stDibs ExpertDecember 17, 2024
    No, Hamilton Watch is not made in China. Since 2003, Hamilton’s timepieces have come from an atelier in Biel, Switzerland. Prior to that, Hamilton manufactured its watches at its factory in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, where it was founded in 1892. Explore a selection of Hamilton watches on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertDecember 17, 2024
    The story behind Hamilton watches goes back to the late 19th century. As railroad tracks were laid across the United States and steam locomotives began traversing vast distances, the American railroad system ran into a problem. Time was not standardized across the country.

    Therefore, in 1883, the railroad companies established the four time zones as we know them today. However, train conductors were not always synchronized, leading to deadly railroad accidents. Enter watchmaker Hamilton, founded in 1892. Railway workers would be required to wear a pocket watch to keep on schedule, and the watchmaking industry — especially pocket-watch manufacturers such as Hamilton — benefitted. The company’s timepieces eventually earned the moniker “The Watch of Railroad Accuracy.”

    Hamilton transitioned from pocket watches to wristwatches in 1914, as it supplied timepieces to American troops fighting in World War I. The new style of watch also appealed to aviators, and Hamilton aeronautical watches became all the rage among pilots, particularly those flying for the new U.S. Airmail service.

    The general public’s interest in Hamilton watches grew rapidly in the 1920s. Legendary polar explorer Admiral Richard E. Byrd timed his historic flights over glaciers and chunks of sea ice with a Hamilton pocket watch in the late 1920s. Hamilton’s Piping Rock watch, an Art Deco-inspired design featuring elegant Roman numerals set in black for the hour markers, debuted in 1928 and was gifted to the New York Yankees to celebrate their World Series win that year. The model was also featured in the film Shanghai Express alongside the brand’s Flintridge watch, further expanding Hamilton’s popularity. (Hamilton watches can also be seen in the films The Frogmen, Blue Hawaii, 2001: A Space Odyssey and Men in Black.) In the second half of the 20th century, Hamilton became well known for several innovations: It developed the first-ever battery-operated electric watch, the Ventura, in 1957, as well as the first-ever digital wristwatch, the Hamilton Pulsar Time Computer, in 1970. Three years later, superspy James Bond donned a Pulsar in Live and Let Die.

    Today, the company is part of the Swatch Group, and its headquarters and production facilities relocated from Pennsylvania to Switzerland in 2003.

    On 1stDibs, find a wide range of Hamilton watches.
  • 1stDibs ExpertDecember 17, 2024
    Whether Hamilton watches are American or Swiss depends on the timepiece in question. Prior to 2003, Hamilton manufactured its timepieces in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. After the company's sale to the Swatch Group, its headquarters and manufacturing facility relocated to Biel, Switzerland. Explore a variety of Hamilton watches on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 1, 2024
    George Romney is the artist who painted Lady Hamilton. He actually produced several Romantic portraits and drew many sketches of her, as he considered her to represent the ideal of feminine beauty. Later in his career, Romney produced a series of paintings inspired by the works of William Shakespeare. Shop a variety of George Romney art on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertNovember 13, 2024
    To identify a vintage Hamilton watch, grab a magnifying glass and look for its model number, serial number and case number. Most timepieces produced by Hamilton will display one, two or all three of these numbers. The model and case numbers generally appear on the back of the case, and you can usually find the serial number on the lugs. You can enter these numbers into the search tool on the National Association of Watch & Clock Collectors's official website to learn about your watch's age, style name and other characteristics. If you have any difficulty, a certified appraiser or knowledgeable dealer can help you. On 1stDibs, shop an assortment of vintage Hamilton watches.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    To open a Hamilton pocket watch, take it to a reputable watch repair shop. Experts advise against opening antique pocket watches on your own because special tools are necessary to avoid damaging the timepieces. On 1stDibs, shop a collection of Hamilton pocket watches.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 13, 2023
    No, Hamilton is not widely considered a luxury watch brand. The revered Swiss manufacturer’s timepieces are known for their quality workmanship and high-end materials, but its watches typically retail at attainable price points compared to the likes of Cartier or Rolex. Shop a collection of Hamilton watches from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 17, 2023
    Hamilton watches became Swiss in 2003 when the watchmaker moved from Lancaster, Pennsylvania, to Biel, Switzerland. While based in the U.S., the company produced watches for the winners of the 1928 World Series and was the official watch for the employees of four commercial airlines. Shop a variety of Hamilton watches on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    The Hamilton 992B Railroad Watch was first produced in November, 1940, nine years after design and research began. The 992B featured brand-new technologies and was made with gold, steel and gilt parts and the newly designed Elinvar Extra hairspring. The last Hamilton 992B was sold in 1969. Shop Hamilton 992B Railroad Watches from top sellers worldwide on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    Hamilton's Railway Special pocket watch was launched in 1940 and remained in production for the next two decades. At the time, it was marketed as the most accurate railroad watch available. Shop a collection of vintage and contemporary Hamilton timepieces from some of the world's top sellers on 1stDibs.

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