I spotted this watch today at the Lexington Mart. I've seen it before, but only in pictures. It is a 14K solid gold watch from 1953. It has a very unusual hourglass design. More to follow....

2

3

4

Bill,

Nice Hamilton, reminiscent of some of the Longines models from that era. It's odd (to me) to see a Hamilton in a case not made by Wadsworth or Star. Do you know which case maker this one is by? I see the "J with a clock hand" mark occasionally, but don't know the maker.

Regards,

Cary

Bill,

Great find. A beautiful Hamilton that you dont come across very often. I believe the case company was either Jonell or JAX. Dont remember without finding my notes, but I am sure someone on here will know.

Thanks for sharing the pictures!

2

3

4

5

6

It is a Jonell case - they also made the Altair case, among others.


Dan.

Bill or anyone,
How long was the chatham produced and available to the public?

Tony,

This watch was offered in the 1953 catalog that I have in my library. It was in a mid year catalog, but I can not locate this watch in the 1954 catalog. My sense is that it was only offered for the 1 year. Perhaps slightly longer. I can't understand why this watch didn't sell well. The design is extraordinary.

This current example is "on hold" until my potential buyer, a fellow who has bought many magnificent examples from me, returns to the country. If he doesn't buy the watch, I shall list it after March 15.

Regards,

William

Very nice Bill.

Hopefully not required and the "board" get the chance to "Bid!"

Timely regards.

Roy.

"So mote it be!"

Bill,
Would you post a pic of the page fromthe 1953 Hamilton catalog showing the Chatham.
Thanks

The Chatham is featured on page 14 of the 1953 catalog, at $150, and on page 21 of the 1955 catalog, now priced at $135 - but is not in the 1958 catalog. (Hamilton may not have issued a catalog each year).

Dan.