Hamilton Watch Co. was in operation from 1892-1969 and manufactured some of the highest end, most accurate watches ever produced. Manufacturing of Hamilton watches took place at their facility in Lancaster, Pennsylvania.
This Hamilton timepiece is housed in our Heritage Bronze case and comes complete with its original 14-karat gold-filled pocket watch case, chain, and presentation box. The dial is near flawless and remains in exceptional condition. Applied golden numerals glisten as light moves across the surface, while the original hands remain untouched in their matching golden finish. The piece is powered by Hamilton’s Grade 917, a 17-jewel in-house movement produced from 1936 to 1954. The 917 reflects an important period in Hamilton’s history, combining military-era precision engineering with the refined craftsmanship of the postwar years. The movement was constructed using low-iron alloys to reduce susceptibility to magnetism, an important technological advancement of the period. Because of this specialized metallurgy, the hardware cannot undergo traditional thermal coloring and remains in its original factory finish. The jewel settings, gear train, balance, and balance weights were each individually hand-polished to restore their original golden sheen. What makes this example particularly special is everything that has remained with it. The original 14-karat gold-filled pocket watch case is engraved on the back with the initials “R.E.B.” and the date “Jan. 26, 1952.” The original box is inscribed “Tino to Roy,” suggesting that the “R” engraved on the case stands for Roy. The original chain is also in excellent condition, completing a remarkable surviving set and preserving far more of the watch’s personal history than we typically encounter.
The watch is housed in our Heritage Bronze conversion case, designed for collectors who appreciate a case that evolves over time. Machined from solid bronze, the case starts with warm golden tones but develops a rich patina as it ages, creating a surface unique to the wearer. From the coined-finish bezel to the lugs, screws, and crown, nearly every surface will take on its own patina, ensuring no two cases ever age the same. The case is designed with adjustable lugs for easy winding and setting, while ensuring a comfortable fit across various wrist sizes. The case includes front, back, and crown gaskets for water resistance up to 50 meters; however, we recommend removing the watch before engaging in water activities. The timepiece comes fully serviced and ready for your next adventure.
Watch Performance
Accuracy: +/- 10 seconds per day
Amplitude: 275 degrees
Beat Error: 1.5 ms
Frequency: 18,000 (5 beats per second)
Power Reserve: 24-30 hours
Complication: Sub second hand
Watch Specifications
Manufacture: Hamilton
Location: Lancaster, Pennsylvania
Year Manufactured: 1951
Dial Material: Metal
Jewels: 17 jewels
Case Diameter: 44 mm
Front Crystal: Domed AR coated sapphire
Back Crystal: Flat AR coated sapphire
Case Material: 316L stainless
Lug width: 22 mm
Lug to Lug: 47 mm (52 mm with crown)
Height: 13 mm
Original Case Included: Yes, 14 karat gold filled
Serial Number: X184336
Water Resistance: 50 meters
Warranty: Full 1-Year Warranty
All Frett & Co. Clockworks watches come with a full 1-year warranty unless otherwise stated.

