May 2013

Hamilton Watch Company, Lancaster, PA Historians claim that the Hamilton Watch Company began in 1892, producing timepieces for the railroads. That date represents one of many reorganization of a watch manufacturer in Lancaster, PA.  The year, 1892, is not the beginning of the organization. Not that 1892 doesn’t mark a significant milestone in the company’s history. […]

About the time Hamilton purchased Illinois Watch Company, the Lancaster PA railroad watch manufacturer put eight traditional wrist watches on the market. Previously, they seemed to have walked on eggshells. For example, from 1917-1925, they only offered a Cushion. In 1927, they opened up. Shown below are five of their offerings. Not pictured are the Tonneau

Some debate exists about Hamilton’s first venture into the wristwatch business. According to the Catalogs, the Hamilton Wristwatch for Men first appeared in 1919.  Enthusiasts have long held that the Company released their first wristwatch for men in that year. The catalog page below gives a different hint since it reads …this watch was tremendously popular

What model & date are Hamiltons with the 9 O’Clock Second Hand? Undocumented Hamilton That’s a good question. People have spent untold time and energy trying to find the answer. It’s not intuitive, because the watch on the right is not a Hamilton in the first place. It is an Illinois wristwatch. You might ask,

Recently, I considered listing one of my Hamilton watches for auction on eBay – until I saw other offerings.  I felt shocked at the depressed prices. One in restored condition sold for $95.  If I was that seller, I would have taken a loss. Think about this: the dial cost $29 to restore, the crystal