I have a 952 Grade from 1922, just wondering what dial it should have. I was always under the impression that it should have a script signed dial, but this one is fitted with a #519. I thought the #519 would be to late for that year, was it available in 1922, any thoughts???

Bila, I think it is correct. Hamilton started the
change over about 1918 from cursive to block. So to
me it appears correct.

Roger

Thanks Roger

Looks like a early #519 (577-A) with the thicker minute markers. They thinned them down as the dial progressed. I would say late 20's or early 30's.

The later 20's are when these dials were first seen.


The script signature dials were phased out about 1918 as Roger told us. They were still being used/phased out till about 1924, by all accounts.

I picture the predecessor of the No. 519 dial as shown from Hamilton's 1929 Catalog.


regards,
bb

Thanks Buster, the reason I ask is that it is on a 1922 approximate movement judging by the Gelson list and actual come from the collection of J F Gelson which was being auctioned by a reputable Auction House that had a few lots of his stuff.

Would it be possible that this is the correct dial, maybe sold much later after being produced, definitely in his list as a 1922-23 production, listed as a 952P for pendant set, but actually is lever set?

Hi Bila,
I have no idea if that dial was used on a 952 or not. I have never seen a 952 with that dial but I have only seen a half dozen 952's. It is not the same dial as on mine. However the block letters are correct for 1922. Hamilton often finished movements and sold them much later as you know with my fully marked 939. My 939 was made in 1900 - 1903 and sold in 1917 so it has the dial that is appropriate for 1917.

Harry

Thanks Harry for your thoughts mate, for some reason just looked strange as the larger percentage I have seen are script dials on these

Thanks Lindell for your thoughts as well, I was hoping you would share them on this subject dial. It always amazes me on the subtle changes that you, Buster and others have noticed over the years on some of these production tweaks. I don't play with that many Hamilton's in the 16 Sizes so it is good to get some advice, much appreciated

On another dial Lindell, I will probably leave this one as it is seeing it is on one of John Gelson's watches. I will keep the offer in mind as I have a couple of others here that I still have to dig out so could possibly be in need of another or two.