2021 Hamilton Classic Instra-Matic Auto Chrono Green 40mm
Ref: H38416560

In 1892, Hamilton was established in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, initially focusing on the production of pocket watches. From its inception, the brand championed the creation of accurate and affordable timepieces, making them accessible to a broader audience. During the formative years of American railroads, a significant challenge arose: the absence of a standardised timing system led to frequent accidents on the tracks. To address this critical issue, Hamilton pocket watches were engineered with exceptional precision, earning them the distinguished title of "The Watch of Railroad Accuracy." In a pivotal moment for the company, Hamilton became an official supplier to the U.S. Armed Forces in 1914, coinciding with the onset of World War I. This partnership prompted a transition from pocket watches to the more practical wristwatch, which was better suited for military use. In 1926, a significant event unfolded in the annals of aviation history when Admiral Richard E. Byrd achieved the remarkable feat of becoming the first aviator to reach the North Pole. This momentous journey marked a pivotal milestone in both exploration and aviation, as Byrd's daring expedition pushed the boundaries of what was possible in the realm of flight and navigation. The cold, vast expanse of the Arctic served as both a daunting challenge and a breathtaking backdrop for this groundbreaking achievement, underscoring the courage and determination that characterised Byrd's spirit of adventure.. He relied on a Hamilton watch to meticulously time his groundbreaking flight, which lasted 15 hours and 57 minutes, and included a remarkable 13-minute circumnavigation of the pole itself. As the United States entered World War II, Hamilton pivoted its focus entirely away from consumer watch production to fulfill the urgent needs of the U.S. Armed Forces. Over the course of the war, the company produced more than one million timepieces, including both wristwatches and marine chronometers designed for naval operations. Their commitment to quality earned them the Army-Navy E award, which recognised excellence in manufacturing. Post-war, Hamilton sustained a robust relationship with the military. In 1966, the introduction of the Khaki Field watch marked a significant development; this model incorporated hacking seconds—a feature essential for military precision. During the Vietnam War, the Khaki Field watch became a common sight on soldiers' wrists. Between 1965 and 1976, the British military deployed around 40,000 Hamilton watches, further solidifying the brand's reputation for military reliability. On May 16, 1974, Hamilton was acquired by SSIH, which later became known as the Swatch Group. Although they maintained operations in the U.S. for nearly three decades after the sale, 2003 marked a significant shift when production moved to Biel, Switzerland. This transition enabled Hamilton to affix Swiss-made dials to their watches, enhancing their prestige in the luxury watch market. In popular culture, the Hamilton Ventura gained prominence starting in 1997 when it became a central element in the 'Men in Black' film. One of Hamilton's most noteworthy Hollywood collaborations occurred in 2014, with Christopher Nolan’s acclaimed sci-fi epic ‘Interstellar.’ For this film, Hamilton designed and produced a special watch known as ‘The Murph,’ which played a critical role in the narrative, further cementing the brand's status as a synonymous partner to groundbreaking cinema.