I bought this 1949 “Hamilton Vardon” and restored it without knowing much about it. I just liked the look. As it turned out, I had an iconic watch. One that collectors value.
Hamilton attempted to create a water proof case similar to the Rolex Oyster with a cup-like back and a sealed bezel and two-piece crown. They named the series “CLD” as a nickname for sealed.
These watches kept dust and debris out of the case, no doubt, but they were minimally water resistant. I wouldn’t keep one on in the shower or wash dishes with it on my wrist. Still, I loved the look which combined the 1930’s Hamilton style in new material.
The CLD line became popular during the post war period because the buying public believed in Hamilton. They believed these watches maintained a high level of accuracy and kept elements such as moisture and dust from reaching the movement. Unfortunately, Hamilton didn’t accomplish its sales goals and the movements didn’t fit the company’s post 1952 transformation.