Internet Horology Club 185
Ultra-rare Hamilton Electric - "Titan IV-B"

This topic can be found at:
https://ihc185.infopop.cc/eve/forums/a/tpc/f/9886009961/m/5131061912

November 26, 2006, 17:56
René Rondeau
Ultra-rare Hamilton Electric - "Titan IV-B"
This was an exciting find for me after more than 20 years of searching -- the "Titan IV-B." I certainly don't think it's the most attractive watch I've ever seen, in fact it's definitely not to my taste. But it is vastly rarer than the 'usual' Hamilton Electric rarities like the "Altair" or "Nautilus 403," or for that matter even the 18K rose gold "Ventura" or solid gold "Pacer." Until this one turned up in Michigan I'd only ever even heard of two others. One was in a noted collection in Lancaster, PA, later sold to another California collector. The other belonged to the widow of a Hamilton salesman in my area. I restored it for her many years ago but she wouldn't consider selling it.

One reason it's so rare is that it was the most expensive watch in the Electric line -- $400 when released on April 22, 1966. (That's twice as much as the "Ventura.") The body of the case is the same as the common "Titan II" but without the lugs; the dial and crystal are identical to the "Titan III". However, unlike those gold-filled watches this case is 14K solid gold, as is the integrated mesh band. It's very feminine by today's standards but was marketed as a very upscale formal men's watch.

You never know what may turn up!


November 26, 2006, 19:06
William J. Hansen, Ph.D.
Rene describes watches like a grape grower describes wine !

This is a profound rarity. When Rene compares this to the 18K Rose Gold Ventura, it is as rare as it gets.

I'm really delighted for you Rene. Thanks so much for sharing this with us.

Smile


Bill Hansen
IHC# 198
Life Member# 17
November 26, 2006, 19:40
Samie L. Smith
Rene
That is a beautiful watch thanks for showing it..
November 27, 2006, 00:23
Frank Wilson
Very nice find Rene Wink
November 27, 2006, 19:18
Dan Mitchell
Now find a BARBIZON !

dan
November 27, 2006, 19:45
Lindell V. Riddle

Absolutely beautiful example!

To help put things in context, that same year a new 1966 Pontiac Bonneville with practically every option had a $5,200.00 window sticker.

Thanks René, just...