Introduction:
It is no secret to watch fans around the world that Hamilton watches have been at the centre of attention in many movies. Significant characters have sported a Hamilton watch in blockbuster movies such as Interstellar, Men in Black, Tennet, The Martian, Jack Ryan and even alongside James Bond in Quantum of Solace. In some cases the watch is featured as a significant part to the story.
For many years Hamilton has offered one of the greatest value for money manual-winding mechanical watches in the form of the Khaki Field Mechanical. In 2019, the Pilot Pioneer joined the manual-winding mechanical lineup. Both of these watches displayed only the time with no other complication. With the new Intra-Matic Chronograph H, Hamilton has finally introduced a complication to the manual-wind lineup. Today is the perfect time to have a closer look at this watch.
Background:
It’ll come as no surprise that this is not a brand new design from Hamilton. They took the inspiration from a watch that they designed back in the 1960’s. The original Chronograph A or Chronograph B was powered by the Valjoux 7730; a manual-winding movement. We first saw this design re-lauched by Hamilton at the 2017 Baselworld show as a Limited Edition Intra-matic 68 chronograph.
Aesthetics:
Visually the new Intra-Matic Chrono H is similar to its predecessor automatic version. It has the same 40mm polished case with the ’box’ sapphire crystal glass. The thickness is only a fraction smaller at 14,35mm compared to 14,45mm. Despite manual-winding watches being traditionally thinner than their automatic counterparts, the thickness of the Intra-Matic Chrono H does not detract from its beautiful design and alluring presence on the wrist. The width of the watch from lug to lug is 20mm. The lug width choice was very prudent of Hamilton, as it allows the wearer to add a personal touch by customising the watch with extra leather straps or even versatile NATO straps for the summer.
The dial choice is either panda or reverse panda which is fantastic as both are well respected and coveted colour combinations on racing style watches.
In comparison to the automatic version, we can see the subtle use of faux-patina on the hour marker tips which gives the watch a tastefully executed vintage look. The use of faux-patina on a modern watch is no easy task and watch brands notoriously either do it very well or completely tarnish an otherwise attractive dial. In my professional and personal opinion, Hamilton have surpassed all expectations on the new Intra-Matic Chrono H and the incredible finish speaks for itself. Perhaps the most conspicuous visual difference is the absence of a date window. This is certainly not an oversight and makes for a more cleaner, functional and symmetrical dial that remains faithful to the original 1960’s version.
For the strap, Hamilton have kept it simple and not burdened us with too much choice; a genuine leather strap or a refined mesh bracelet. I’ll be honest, I already want both!
Movement:
The automatic version is powered by the H-31 movement featuring an extended 60 hour power reserve. The new manual-winding version is powered by the new H-51 movement which has the same 60 hour power reserve. This movement is based on the ETA 7753 and it beats at 4Hz.
Pricing:
There is only a marginal price difference between the manual-winding Intra-Matic Chronograph H and the automatic version. 1800 GBP with the leather strap and 1870 GBP with the mesh bracelet.
The New Intra-Matic Chronograph H pays an honourable tribute to the original 1960’s watch. With an upgraded movement and generous water resistance of 100 meters, this revitalized model stays true to the original with all the attributes and technology of a modern timepiece.
The manual winding movement invites us to engage with our timepiece and reminds us to appreciate the beauty of a mechanical watch.
With a sporty yet elegant design, Hamilton have made this a real watch lover’s watch.
If you wish to order the watch or browse other Hamilton watches we would recommend to have a look at Jura watches from the UK. Click here to see the full range and the watch from this review.
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