My First Vintage Purchase
This is a "Gary" model from about 1962. I couldn't pass up a Gary model. It works...hand wind only. The Speidel strap is period correct (and reminds me of my Dad's watches from the day). I wish it had the original gold strap.
It's a tiny thing but I may use it. Do you think it's safe to run it or should it be serviced first.
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Gary
I retired a few years ago. Most of my watches were accumulated during the 80’s and 90’s while I was still working. Since I’ve been here I’ve learned I specialize in “affordable” watches. I also enjoy...
North Carolina
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Now that's a Hamilton!
If service history is unknown, it's always safer to have it looked at. Do you know what the original bracelet looked like? I similarly have a Bulova model whose original bracelet matched the texture of the case, but it's utterly lost to time. Please say you're keeping the expansion band.
Cool, I'd keep it on the Spiedel. 👍🏻
I would probably have someone look at it. Wearing it occasionally until then won't hurt it. Beautiful mid-century aesthetic.
I couldn't wait and had to look up the stock bracelet.
Honestly the transition from the vertical lines to the zigzag don't rub me the right way.
Beautiful Hamilton. I'm jealous. Personal note, I never liked Speidels, but that's just me. Near guaranteed arm hair pinch.
Not sure if it is the truth but I have heard that the speidels can mess up the lugs.
Also it looks like my paw paws retirement watch but square. His was a Hamilton masterpiece. It also was on a speeidel.
Also it looks like my paw paws retirement watch but square. His was a Hamilton masterpiece. It also was on a speeidel.
Yes, Spiedel was all the rage in the 60s.
Not sure if it is the truth but I have heard that the speidels can mess up the lugs.
A metal band will definitely damage vintage Hamilton lugs. If it's plated, just the plating will come off and be barely visible inside the legs. If it's gold it will actually gouge the material.
Very cool! I bet it would look killer on a nice black leather strap. I also have a name sake Hamilton so I know why you got one! :)
1962, that was when JFK was in office, one of the most stylish world leader. Also, you should try to get the omega jfk wore, and put it in your vintage collection. This watch looks great too
Its a gorgeous piece. If I was you I'd have it serviced and wear it. Pure class with a suit. That strap is incredible.
Oh my!! I love this, even more so with respect to the memory of your dad. Yes. My dad had an Omega on a gold Speidel strap like you have there. You can certainly wear it and use it and see how well it keeps time. Then, if you don't know the service history, bring it in and have it serviced when you can so you can keep it running well.
Well it’s in for service and I’m putting it on a brown leather strap. I also thought a black strap would look best but the watchmaker recommended a brown one and it just looked classy with the gold watch.
I also found an old 10k gold filled rectangular dial Longines in a box of old stuff in a spare dresser. I’ll likely get it fixed up later after the Hamilton gets back.