March 02, 2026, 15:04
Richard JohnsonHamilton Factory Railroad Cases (1924-1971)
Hi
Hamilton made several Factory Railroad Cases. I set out years ago to collect the entire set in all the colors available, yellow, white and green gold. I'm interested in knowing which case is your favorite out of the bunch shown in the picture and does the case you choose have any special meaning to you or a story behind it. I will post pics of the ones in my collection as we go along and will share my favorite at the end.
March 03, 2026, 21:45
Keith CambronI like most of the Hamilton factory cases.great designs all around.But I am really drawn to the factory Hamilton pattern back cases.The model 2,5,and 7 are what I have encountered.but I think a model 1 and model 8 might have also come in a pattern back.
March 04, 2026, 12:37
Richard JohnsonKeith,
I knew I could count on you to chime in. I agree with you about the pattern backs. They really do add to the look. I have a few and will make sure to post them as we go along. The reason why I said I would say what my favorite is at the end is because right now, I'm not so sure I could firmly say which one it would be. Some of them have a sweet spot to me because of appearance and some because of how difficult they were to find. The #6 in green gold was by far the toughest to get. I got it from Weldon Hopkins collection, a member here at IHC. In fact, it was his post that inspired me to collect the factory cases.
See that here:
https://ihc185.infopop.cc/eve/...x_V5NsIC_gefK76RZlxQ. If you haven't seen his post, take the time to do so.
March 04, 2026, 17:59
Keith CambronRichard,can’t wait to see some of your cases.I know Weldon as well.he is a great guy.I would have to say that I really like the model 7,5 and 2 cases.preferably in wgf,but a crisp gold filled is awesome as well.The only green Hamilton that I have is a model 5 with a 950 in it. Well actually now that I think about it.the model 4,6 and 8 are awesome as well.lol
March 29, 2026, 15:28
Russ GeorgeI have couple favorites but for different reasons.
Aesthetically model 4. I find it very pleasing to look at and hold. I only have one.
Another favorite is the two-tone #3. Only because there are so many that have been "put together" with non matching serial numbered bezels. It's kinda fun figuring out from sales pictures if it's an authentic two-tone.I have 3 with matching #'s.
I've collected for a number of years but cases have always been a tough nut for me to crack and figure out. The pattern back ones Keith eluded to, I actually think these are more visually appealing. I'd love to see a picture record like the above referenced chart by Richard. There may be one already, I just don't know about it.
Russ
March 31, 2026, 08:59
Jeff KisnerHamilton Factory RR Cases.... the reason I started collecting Hamilton's in 1998.
My first thought was "how hard could it be to get all the factory cases?" Turns out, 28 years later, I'm still missing some.
I have never purchased a 992 Series or 950 Series watch in a Factory Case just for the sake of having it. I have been very conscious of the condition of the case and the movement. Brassing just doesn't sit well with me.
My favorite is the Model 2, then Model 6, then Model 8. My favorite Model 2 is in Rose Gold Filled and houses a 992 Adjusted for Railroad Service. I actually have two Model 2's in Rose gold filled. I believe that the Model 2 was the only factory case in rose and had very early Wadsworth serial numbers. Sitting beside a yellow gold Model 2, you can clearly see the difference.
I do not have any solid gold cases.
This is what I have so far:
Model A - With and Without Shoulders (Both 950B)
Cross Bar - Yellow and White
Model 2 - Yellow, White, Rose (Green continues to elude me)
Model 3 - Yellow, White, Green
Model 4 - Yellow, White, Green
Model 5 - Yellow, White
Model 6 - Yellow, White, Green
Model 7 - Yellow, White
Model 8 - Yellow, White
Model 9 - No
Model 10 - Yes
Model 11 -Yes
Model 12 - No
Model 14 - No
Model 15 - Yes
Model 16 - Yes
Model 17 - Yes
# 3 Two Tone - Yes
Cheers and happy hunting!
March 31, 2026, 13:30
William D. WhiteI only have a model 2 which is a recent reproduction but a very nice one, cast of solid stainless. I carry it all the time.
April 17, 2026, 21:07
Richard JohnsonI'm sorry for the delay in posting pictures. Unforeseen circumstances got in the way and derailed me. Thank you for patiently waiting. I really do appreciate getting feedback about this thread and look forward to hearing from others.
Russ,
From what I've read, the Tu-Tone case was short lived. With it having diss-similar metals, the back and bezel being stainless steel and the frame being yellow gold the threads can be easily stripped out or cross threaded. Be careful when you thread up the bezel and back. That could be one of the reasons so many cases don't have matching numbers.
Jeff,
Now that you mention it, I do believe I've heard that before about Rose Gold #2 cases. I had forgotten all about that variant. I'll have to give the ones in my collection a close look. I'm hoping I have one or the hunt will be on for it. I was thinking I had them all with the exception of the solid gold ones. I do believe that one day the dream of owning one of those beauties will come true. Time will tell. My collection doesn't feel complete with it. The number 2 case also comes with and without chevrons.
William,
That has to be the cleanest and sharpest 992B movement I've ever seen. It would be nearly impossible to improve upon it. The case is beautiful as well. I love the display back; and your photography, what can I say, it's totally mine blowing to me how you do it. I've never seen a bad photo from you, ever, regardless of the subject! Truely amazing skill set you have.
To all of you who have be looking forward to seeing some of Hamiltons beautiful railroad case creations, stay tuned. Pics to follow soon.
Rick