Modern Interpretation of Vintage Hamilton Watches for Daily Wear

The Intra-matic is a very faithful reproduction of the Hamilton vintage watch from the mid 1960s, which was first (re)introduced at Basel World 2012. The watch, with its subtle, polished features and minimalist watch dial, harkens back to a time when a casual or dress watch was characterized by shape, graphic elements, and a sense of modesty. The latest Intra-matic incorporates mid-century design elements into either a retro 38mm or a modern wide 42mm shell.

Hamilton American Classic Intra-Matic Auto Gold - Leather Ref. H38475751

We had the privilege of spending a few weeks with a 38mm gold plated edition with a black leather case, which is the watch's most dressy variation. This one of the best modern interpretation of vintage Hamilton watches only costs $890 and comes with a domed sapphire crystal and an ETA 2892-2 automatic movement, which is very reasonable for a Swiss-made dress watch, let alone one that is so special.

Case

The Intra-retro matic's theme is instantly apparent in its geometric case style, which pays homage to some of the original Intra-matics from the 1960s. This one of the modern interpretation of vintage Hamilton watches is small by today's standards, but larger than the initial version, measuring 38 x 44 x 10mm.

Nonetheless, it's perfectly appropriate for a dress watch in this style, and it's proportionally very appealing. The design appears to be simple at first glance, but it contains numerous intriguing features.

A tiny crown measures 5 x 2.5 mm and has a coin edge as well as a 1960s Hamilton H logo. Despite its small size, the crown is simple to maneuver and complements the case's size and design perfectly.

The exhibition case back, on the other hand, showcases the ETA 2892-2 movement inside. The rotor of the 2892-2 has been engraved with a plain design and a big Hamilton emblem, despite the fact that it is otherwise unadorned.

The case back's metal has a gentle curve to it that makes it secure against the wrist, as well as some simple information etched in. Four tiny screws hold it in place.

Dial

The dial on the Intra-matic is very simple and minimal, but it is still very exciting and elegant. A domed silver sunburst with a dynamic quality covers the surface. Light is reflected in radial lines and fan shapes as it strikes the surface.

Though the color is a light grey, it is constantly shifting and taking on the qualities of the light in the room. The dial's slightly domed form adds another dimension, creating a sense of depth.

The dial's overall appearance is neat, minimal, and very appealing. The Bauhaus style is reflected in the Hamilton vintage watch's thin index, hands, and lack of seconds.

Given that the original was created in the 1960s, this seems appropriate. The silver sunburst dial on the gold edition also picks up some warm tones from the case. It comes together to be a modest and stylish piece as a dress watch.

Movement: ETA 2892-2

The Intra-matic is operated by an ETA 2892-2 21-jewel automatic movement. This hacking, hand-winding movement has a date, 42-hour power reserve, and a frequency of 28,800 bph, but there is no seconds hand, so the hacking is pointless. The 2892-2 is regarded as a slightly higher-end movement than the 2824-2, which is more popular (at least in this price range). 

Hamilton American Classic Intra-Matic Chronograph H Black - Leather Ref. H38429730

Whereas the Khaki line of watches captures the essence of military field watch style, the Intra-Matic line is distinctly more mid-century, and will be at home in Don Draper's Manhattan bachelor pad (you know, the one with the sunken living room). So it's no surprise that the new Intra-Matic Chronograph H is built on two classic Hamilton versions from 1968: the Chronographs A and B.

Case

Let's speak about the thickness of the situation. Except for the chronograph versions, the Intra-Matic range is renowned for its slim mid-century design watches. With a height of 14.35mm, this watch isn't particularly slim – especially when you consider the boxed sapphire.

The thickness is most noticeable when the watch is kept in profile, resembling a stout flying saucer. Owing to the downward angle of those lugs, this is much less apparent on the elbow.

I believe that a thickness of 12mm will be an absolute home run for this Hamilton vintage watch. Fortunately, the whole is greater than the sum of its bits, and we still get a solid double.

Movement

Hamilton calls the movement used in the watch the H-51 (base: ETA-7753). The Hamilton H-50 movement is used in the time-only mechanical watches. This is a mechanical, hand-winding movement, as you would expect. It has a 60-hour power reserve, beats at 4Hz, and is protected by a strong, polished caseback that is etched with the same retro-style Hamilton logo and wordmark.

Summary

Overall, this is a good choice for those who love Hamilton vintage watches. It has a lot of retro style elements and it satisfies the mechanical itch. It's a rather attractive watch that, considering the case height, fits comfortably on the wrist. If you're looking for a manual-wind chronograph but don't want to spend the money on a Speedmaster, Hamilton has come up with a great alternative.

Hamilton American Classic Intra-Matic Auto Fume Black - Bracelet Ref. H38455181

Hamilton's signature style and commitment to the American spirit are highlighted by the Intra-Matic. The collection is aimed at fans of traditional American style.

Case

Let's start with its case size; it exudes vintage charisma thanks to its geometric case style, which is reminiscent of Hamilton's 1960s Intra-Matics. The fully polished case is 38mm wide and 9.8mm tall, and it's perfect for today's Neo-vintage look.

It's the perfect size for an everyday dress watch without being as big as a hockey puck. The 44-meter lug to lug length makes it ideal for those with the slimmest wrists, which is a pleasant touch by Hamilton. Further, a central crown is signed with their vintage "H" mark and made simple for time adjustment and winding.

In addition, the case has a slightly domed sapphire crystal that sits above the thin polished bezel, giving the watch an almost "all-dial" appearance. We've matched it with a screw-in exhibition case back with critical specs etched on it on the other side. The lugs' style is reminiscent of a 1960s design, which adds to the watch's overall retro-ness rather than simply running the mills of a classic round dress watch.

Dial

When it comes to the dial, the American Classic Intra-Matic Auto has a simple, elegant, and chic design. The black dial's warm accents and smoked elements offer the American Classic a confident masculine vintage look.

It dances differently depending on how the lights touch the surface at the same time. The black fume dial is formed subtly like a pie-pan type, giving it a nod to the past while still adding depth.

The hour markers are rose gold colored baton strips that match equally with the thin and right length handset, obviating the need for a second hand for a cleaner look. For improved readability and orientation for the wearer, the hour marker stripes at 12, 3, 6, and 9 o'clock are thicker than the rest.

Another nod to the 1960s is the date show at six o'clock, which is framed in the same rose gold color-tone as the rest of the watch, which helps to keep things balanced and symmetrical. The retro "H" logo, with the words "Hamilton Automatic" in italicized fonts, is balanced out at the bottom by the title "Intra-Matic."

Movement

The Caliber 2892-A2, a 21-jewel automatic movement, powers the American Classic Intra-Matic Auto Fume Black Ref. H38455181. The thin automatic movement has hacking during time-setting and winding, as well as separate date modification, and the "Hamilton" decorated rotor can be admired via the open caseback.

Strap

The Intra-Matic Auto is equipped with a 20mm stainless steel multi-link bracelet, which is typically seen on dress watches from the 1960s and is appropriate for all occasions and conditions. This Hamilton vintage watch is available on Gnomon Store.

Explore more collections from Hamilton:

• Trio Hamilton Field Watch to Rock on Outdoor Activity
• Hamilton Dive Watch - Men's Choice to Go Under the Surface
• Hamilton Khaki Field - Gnomon’s Collection