H a m i l t o n M i l i t a r y W r i s t w a t c h
c. 1 9 1 8
Rare Hamilton “Military Wristwatch” men’s Modern design presentation wristwatch in sterling silver, with 19-jewel grade 985 movement, circa 1918.
Hamilton introduced its first men’s wristwatch in June of 1917, using existing pocket watch movements, referring to the watch briefly at first as the “Gent‘s Wristwatch,” then as the “Military Wristwatch” after November 1917 to appeal to men heading to fight overseas in World War I. The watch was priced to consumers at $35.00. Very rare and seldom offered for sale, a mere 485 examples of this round-cased model were produced with the 19-jewel grade 985 adjusted movement. This is the only example I have ever offered for sale. It is in excellent condition, housed in a Philadelphia Watch Case Co. hinged-back sterling silver case, which appears original to this movement. Caseback is excellent, with an elaborate presentation engraving on July 4, 1918 to Major Horace J. Mellum from the Kenosha Provisional Battalion of the Wisconsin State Guard, recognizing his appointment as commander. Mellum had previously served in the Spanish-American War and was later Secretary of Nash Motors. The case measures 37mm long and 32mm wide. Original enamel dial is excellent, with a few faint hairline cracks. Has new glass crystal. This watch is powered by its correct 19 jewel, 0-size Hamilton grade 985 adjusted movement. Has sterling silver crown.
(SOLD)
