Hamilton Stormking I 18k just arrived

[pdxleaf]

Pics first:




Just arrived off the truck. Not bad. Lots of grandpa DNA but the case looks sharp, without gouges. Lugs are good, despite the bracelet.

It started ticked with the slightest turn of the crown. The domed crystal has a couple scratches that should come out.

According to Dan at HamiltonChronicles.com, of the approximately 1100 Hamilton models, only about 15 models were available in 18k gold. Of those, the majority were not round. This Stormking I makes my second round cased 18K Hamilton, which obviously is nice.

The dial is not bad but it shows its' age. These had radium under the hands and the little arrowheads at 12, 3, 6 and 9. This gave it a shadow glow. It has also over time darkened the dial.

Hopefully I can get it serviced soon and see how it cleans up.

With gold at $2300 an ounce, I think I was lucky to save this from a scrapper. I fear for our gold watches and bracelets. I think we are losing alot of them now.


This is how collecting gets started...

Edited: Apr 6, 2024

 

[Larry S]

Normally an 18k watch has an 18k back. Normally watches that are filled or plated have a SS back. What am I missing?

 

[DaveK]

Love those lugs 🥰

 

[Mafkees]

Larry S

Normally an 18k watch has an 18k back. Normally watches that are filled or plated have a SS back. What am I missing?

I would also expect some hallmarks on the case itself.

 

[X350 XJR]

Larry S

Normally an 18k watch has an 18k back. Normally watches that are filled or plated have a SS back. What am I missing?

One of Hamilton's anomalies.

Mine say hello...One and Five.

 

[pdxleaf]

X350 XJR

One of Hamilton's anomalies.

Mine say hello...One and Five.

Yours is collector grade. Mine shows why yours is extraordinary. It's easy to forget that these are from the early 1950's.

My crystal is very hazy, which might be from the radium. It's hard to see the dial details. It might require a new crystal. It's going in the mail next week for service.

@Larry S , it does look a bit strange to see the SS back. The explanation is that stainless steel has two benefits. One, is it makes it more affordable. Two, it makes it more durable, as gold against the wrist shows wear.

Here's my old Stormking I. Dan talks about the steel caseback. http://www.hamiltonchronicles.com/2019/11/1955-stormking-i.html?m=1

 

[DaveK]

pdxleaf

Yours is collector grade. Mine shows why yours is extraordinary. It's easy to forget that these are from the early 1950's.

My crystal is very hazy, which might be from the radium. It's hard to see the dial details. It might require a new crystal. It's going in the mail next week for service.

@Larry S , it does look a bit strange to see the SS back. The explanation is that stainless steel has two benefits. One, is it makes it more affordable. Two, it makes it more durable, as gold against the wrist shows wear.

Here's my old Stormking I. Dan talks about the steel caseback. http://www.hamiltonchronicles.com/2019/11/1955-stormking-i.html?m=1

Interesting article. Back-lit hands, I’ve never seen that before 👍