I want to thank everyone who has joined me on this Horological Journey! As this is a milestone I want to share. Although I have a few notes: 1. Recently Hamilton released a new mechanical version of their Intra-Matic chronographs. The Intra-Matic Chronograph H Even if those were available when I bought this, I would have still gone with the automatic version. There are a few differences with the white panda of the mechanical. Mostly they got rid of the black Tachymeter, and they used an old-radium-colored lume instead of the white. I much prefer the look of this one. That and even though it's mechanical, I don't think it's almost as thick as the automatic. 2. For whatever reason my camera decided to act up when filming the intro and outro. Half of my footage I'm out of focus, so I used what I could, and covered the rest up with B-roll. Not a huge deal, but always a little frustrating. Regardless, I love this watch. Enjoy!
Hello, I recently picked up a timex Q blue red white dial. I was wondering if you wanted to review it. I haven’t opened it so you could unbox it. Lmk thanks 😊 also 50% on tillys website, I think the auto m78 is selling for 150$ in that site.
I only got about 7 minutes in and I'm starting to wonder if your "grail" watch is one you really didn't like, but thought you had to have. The date window, by the way, is not a simple cutout. It's beveled and framed with an outline. Could be that maybe you're offering all these nit picky critiques to try not to gush, I guess, or to thwart some negative comments about your choice, but either way it looks like you're making every effort to avoid enjoying it. Folks, always try on a watch you ]think[ is your "grail". Some watches, like heroes, are disappointing in-person.
That is very true at times. Although for me, despite how it sounds at times I do love this one. Part of my "review philosophy" is that no watch is ever perfect, but that's ok. It's fine to enjoy and love imperfect things. So, I see my role as to point out everything, good and bad. That way people know what to expect and won't be surprised by anything if they ever get one. That and I try and do my best to treat every watch the same when I review it. Regardless of if I bought it, borrowed it, or was given to the channel. So even though it's one of my "Grails", if I think I would mention it there, I should mention it here.
Just purchased this watch today with an amazing discount of 50%, as the movement is worth more than thousand bucks it was a brilliant deal. I absolutely love this watch! Thanks for the video!
@@RelativeTime honeymoon period but I think I love this watch, just like my seamaster chrono this is an amazing watch. I just uploaded a teaser: ua-cam.com/video/4PWNqlz6tOY/v-deo.html Of course I am a beginner here :)
Congrats. I had and really adored the blue reverse panda version. The crown on this feels so solid with pretty good tactile feel. One of the most as accurate watches out of the box I've owned. I can see this being a re-buy down the line. 4 things I wish were different. 1) It's not a super big deal, but, I would have appreciated if they found a way to be able to change the date via the crown versus using a tool to push the little button by the 10 to set it 2) I wish the dial would have had "Intra-matic" or "Chrono-matic" like they used to write on the dial instead of plain old "automatic". I mean they did it for the recent non-chronograph version. 3) I do believe the lugs could be a little shorter. Proportionately, I think the vintage models had shorter lugs in comparison. 4) Yes, the line could be better. Hey, if you're going to have some, make it bright and long lasting enough. Hamilton has had a long history of lack luster lime. However, supposedly, more r event models have better lune than before. And, although this is a racing chronograph style, I can't imagine why having good lume for driving at night wouldn't be useful. If anything, u want to be able to read the watch quickly at a glance while driving and having better lune can only help. Otherwise, a superb watch for a decent price.. even better if discounted or grey market. I'd easily take one of these over the new manual wind which disappointed by being more expensive and not even really any thinner. Plus, I prefer the contrast tachy on the autos and actually like the date at 6 which the new manual wind ones do not have. I also believe a grail watch doesn't have to necessarily be expensive and/or hard to get. I think the strong desire to own a watch you really really love can be grail status enough, imho.
Congrats on the watch - it’s a great watch! If you don’t want to use the included plastic “H” tool to advance the date, try a toothpick - they also work. And I agree with you 100% about homage watches - they are great to try before buying a much more expensive version of something similar in looks/style. I have done this before also with success.
I love Hamilton in general, and an automatic chronograph is great to see! I will be saving for a long time, but this has become my new grail... Great review as always Shane!!!
Thanks! There is also the newer mechanical version they just came out with. Although for some reason it's not much thinner, and slightly different dial design.
I’ve been collecting watches for 35 years and own Rolex, Breguet, and Omega among others. I bought myself this watch and couldn’t be happier. It’s a quality watch and Hamilton is considered luxury, just entry level luxury and it’s their best made watch. The movement is based on a Valjoux and that is a tall chrono movement, it is typical and some way more expensive Chronos are just as tall. I also like the date change button better than going through the stem, it’s easier on your fingers and you’re less likely to make a mistake and Hamilton includes a handy tool to do this. It’s a great watch no matter how you cut it.
As someone new to watches I don’t understand the communities focus on “value”. Buy what you want regardless of the price, assuming you can easily afford it. I have other hobbies where the community focuses on “value” and it can ruin the fun of it. If you want to sell because you don’t like the item and you lose some money then so be it.
I think nothing suits this watch better than the tan leather strap. Only tan leather has that natural appearance that goes along with every single watch, whatever the model, whatever the color.
Excellent review. Mine arrives Monday (early Christmas present from myself) and getting it full kit on the grey market at $1450 (trusted and proven source), so I’m very excited to add this to the collection.
Being rated to 100m, you are certainly safe to swim with that watch. Water resistance isn't dictated solely by the presence of a screw down crown or not. Internal gaskets are key to water resistance, the addition of a screw down crown is a nice-to-have though. Given that Hamilton's own field watches are only rated to 50m and more chronographs (I'm looking at you, Breitling) are only rated to 30m, the fact the Intra-Matic has 100m is a major plus.
This is a gorgeous watch. Dial is comparable to a Breitling premiere chrono or the new Tudor BB chrono which costs more than double than the Hamilton and over 8k for the Breitling. For around 2k, Hamilton is a great choice.
First of all, congrats on getting your grail timepiece. I also agree with your definition. For example, my two grails are the Panerai 609 and the Seiko Giugiaro with a blue dial. Most of the pieces in my collection are priced in the middle of my two grail extremes so obviously, price is not the issue. It is about finding the piece of your heart's desire. I have been saving for the Pam 609 so it is only a matter of time before I make the buy. With regard to the Giugiaro, it is only a $400 dollar watch that was released for the Japanese market. One ray of hope, I do speak Japanese, on with my quest. 😉
Congrats on your first Grail Piece! I love this watch, but as I am a lover of all things vintage, the hand winding version they just released is more my speed.
I’m surprised you went for the Hamilton instead of the Red Star Panda. I see you did get a Merkur / Pierre Paulin! I guess it's time for a comparison video! Thanks
That is a beautiful watch. I have a Longines that uses the 7753. I keep a toothpick tucked into the pillow of its watch box for date changes. And yes, the rotor can be quite loud.
A fantastic watch. I have watches costing 4x the price of the Hamilton but this one is absolutely bang for buck perfect. Don't agree with some of your negatives though. It's not a tailor made watch for your wrist so either get bigger wrists or a smaller watch. The hight is what it is at this price point but the domed back allowes the watch to sit into the wrist so dosent wear to tall on the wrist. I've not experienced any rotor wobble or top heaviness at all, but I have mine on the bracelet if that makes any difference.
@@Andrew.W75 Hahaaa, No, that's not what I said. I meant for my use is doing the same job and is affordable. How many of us are diving, running etc because we bought the watch? maybe 1%.
@@FortuneCookieMeditation Arh ok, yes no one uses watches for their Intended purpose anymore. That's Why I like vintage, made back in the day when you needed a watch!
Nice indulgence Shane! Enjoy your new watch and wear it in good health. Congratulations for being very consistent for the last three years. You deserve a snappy mechanical chronograph
It's a beautiful watch. I would take this over one of the new Tudor panda's any day. I'm jealous for the moment. It's on my list! Excellent review and appreciate the effort going in to making it.👍
Why? Just the price? Don’t get me wrong, I love these Hamiltons and I’m thinking pretty hard about picking up the new manual wind version, but the Tudor Chrono really is miles apart from this in terms of quality
@@stuartcole4845 The Tudor is on a whole other level. The Tudor is comparable to the Breitling and Zenith Chronos. It’s probably as good as a Daytona. Vertical clutch column wheel movements. I’ve been looking to buy a Chronograph and I can’t find the Tudor at retail. The Hamilton is fine and good for the money. The buzzing by the Valjoux would probably start annoying me.
@@rickjason215 I love the new Tudor Chronos but having that snowflake hand is really disappointing from a design perspective given the degree to which it can obscure the sundials. And yes, they are in heavy demand in most parts of the world so you might end up on a wait list.
Congrats! It’s a beautiful watch. I’m considering the green/cream variant. It’s nice to see you breaking away from Chinese specials and micros into something further up the ladder, if only temporarily. If I’m being honest, I have trouble getting excited about the latest Phobos or Spinnaker. This, on the other hand, is worth a close look. Your photography does not disappoint. Wear it in good health.
Nice Watch. I've been collecting vintage Hamiltons for about 20 years or so. Started with a 1916 992B pocket watch...then a 30's Merrit, and a few 50's models. Went through the Khaki phase, but they didn't really do much for me except, help drain my wallet. I really like the intra-metic, and you chose the RIGHT color combo of the Panda... I myself am hoping to someday pick up a Pan Euro.....That watch really speaks to me....
How are you still enjoying this one? I just picked up the sage green color on the bracelet and very excited. I’ve been wanting a true chrono for sometime. Also I’d def consider this watch luxury 2k is a lot of money and more than most can afford. I got mine for 1600
That's a beautiful watch. A worthy grail, 100%. Had a Hamilton Khaki X Wind automatic chronograph, fantastic watch, loved it - sold it to get one of my grails (Aquis) & I do miss it. Congratulations 👍🏻👍🏻
Of the available colorways, I like the panda, too. The different shades of white on the dial is a very nice touch. Overall, it appears to be a great watch .
Thanks for this detailed and fair review. This is really on the top spot for my next watch. I just haven't figured out which color to pick. Given my small collection I tend to take the blue version. But sage green and classic Panda are also very nice. As I don't mind buying second hand, I can wait and see until I know whether an offer is a bargain or not.
A grail watch is one you are dreaming and pushing to own. Your grail is a new Hammy; I just bought mine, a Patek Philippe tank from 1945, complete with a gift engraving “Charley From Esther - Christmas 1945”. The main difference is a matter of taste, really. You can wear yours; I’m a custodian of an artwork- I owe that to Charley and Esther. I enjoy owning my artwork, you enjoy owning your toy. Since we both enjoy it, we both win, right?
Exactly. That's an amazing piece. I've been wanting to get some vintage pieces, but always been worried about who to trust when buying. Congrats as well!
My grail watch is either a Stowa hand winding or a Seiko SPB217. Naturally I like Grand Seiko. Personally I'm not big on chronos. The one I own is a Oakley Judge, with a copper colored dial. It is a quartz.
I also have and love this watch. The thickness is less on an issue then you would think because of the shape of the case back, it sinks into the wrist making it appear more like a 10 - 12mm watch. The rotor is loud but I like that in a watch, adds a bit more personality/character. The only issue I have with this and all Hamilton watches I’ve owned is that the straps bring me out in a rash! No other brand has done this, anyone else had this problem? Either way great review and I’m definitely getting that red strap!
Comparing watch prices in todays world I think this watch has what is needed . So, ask for more and more features in this price range isn't going to happen. If you really want more and more spend 5,000 and you may get them but after all is said and done you may not be any more happier.
Great looking watch Shane. Congratulations on obtaining your first grail watch. It's a little out of my price range though. I do have a similar looking Sugess '1963' ST1901 which scratches that itch though. Plus its a 38mm too, which I like. I'm with you on preferring chronographs with two sub dials over the three.
Lovely watch... congratulations on a grail! Hamilton is a beautiful and classy brand, they know how to nail it. I'd like it overall smaller and not as tall, probably my biggest negative. Yes, a few things that could be improved, but absolutely a win!
Some of this review is a bit confusing. If you’re complaining about the height on this watch, a exhibition case back will probably add another 1-1.5mm to the thickness AND raise the watch further off the wrist (2 of your other complaints). Also, mesh bracelets simply don’t come with endlinks (it would look pretty stupid in my opinion). Given the relatively small price difference between the mesh and the leather, not going with the mesh is a mistake in my opinion. The mesh bracelet on these with the deployant system is one of the best I’ve seen. You can buy leather straps anywhere, but you won’t buy a third party mesh this good without spending a lot of money. My golden rule of watch collecting is that if the watch can come with a bracelet, that’s what I buy. It broadens the resell market and if you do decide you want the OEM bracelet later, they always charge a steep premium.
I agree on all points and I’ve been a big fan of this watch since it was first re-introduced...I agree that the hour and minute hand or just a bit too short...What do you think about having the red arrow tip secondhand from the khaki king automatic? Or even putting a little red tip on the chrono hands as well...dunno...But I can’t help thinking just a dab of color would add to the watch...Thanks for the great review Shane!
Thank you for your review I really enjoyed it . Being I also have this Intra matic I really think you nail it . Although I have sent mine back to swatch twice . The rota was really loud & clunky , the second time the date kept jamming . & the watch was gainging 5 minutes a week which is way above Hamiltons , 10 - 15 seconds daily . I love the the watch though as it has a lot of character . Especially the dial , the cream face panda give it even more of a retro look . It is quite bulky & 49 lug - lug does lop over to one side a bit on my 7 inch wrist . So a 48 would be better like you said . Thanks again
Sorry to hear about your watch ... One thing to note though, a loud/clunky rotor is absolutely normal and expected on any movement that is derived from a 775x. The H31 is just a 7753 at the end of the day. This "clunkiness" you're feeling is also referred to as "rotor wobble". They won't be able to take that away. If I'm not mistaken, it's because the movement only has uni-directional winding.
Congrats Chane with your grail piece. For the money there are a lot of Chronographs to choose from. I have some time to think about before I can buy my first grail. Sinn, Hanhart, Longines...? I've not descided yet.
@@RelativeTime I kept it on it for almost a year. I now have it on a blue Colareb Firenze leather strap. It looks amazing. I will most likely buy another Colareb strap for it and change from time to time.
Hello Shane, I bought the exact same watch last friday and love it. Personly you are very nitpicking on this one. A lot of things you could know before, suche as set the date, thickness etc etc. I enjoy your strap choiches. Thanks for that.
Some of it I knew before hand, but sometimes it still surprises you in person. Part of my review philosophy is to try and treat every watch to the same. So even though I love it, I was trying not to hold back.
This is a very beautiful classic design, there is questioning it. And while we're already at nitpicking: I've seen nicer caseback designs and at this price point they should give you a plastic tool to push the date adjusting button. Personally I wouldn't spend this much money on a watch like this, especially as there are a few homages out there that do the same thing for significantly less money. I very much enjoyed the review with once again brilliant macro footage! Cheers Shane
@@RelativeTime They're really nice. I'm working on a video today so hopefully it's posted tonight. Wasn't sure how I felt about the faux patina at first but its pretty subtle. Works with the watches I think.
@@TimeToGoTravelAndTimepieces That was one thing I wasn't sure of. That and on the white dial panda it looks like they got rid of the black tachymeter. Are they still pretty thick?
Great review. I like the look of chronographs, but I also like solid WR. I've got a SNA413 that has had the hardlex scratched to bits, and a Citizen Endeavour that's WR failed me after many sun and sand holidays. If I were to get another chrono, I would go for an out-and-out retro-racer style and forget about going anywhere near water, and it is common internet lore that the Sea-Gull ST19 is luck of the draw as to if you get a solid movement, so for an auto...that pointed my eyes straight at this Hamilton. Your review highlights every disappointment I thought I might have...so I have no idea where my grail is when you get past spending a few hundred. But I do know Daytona and Speedmaster do nothing for me...the Navitimer is getting there, but I know I would still be disappointed
Despite it's flaws I still love it, and no plans to sell it. Now one the other chronos I was looking at was the Tag Monaco. Lot of cool history there, and not much else out there with the square design. Some day I might look into one as well, or maybe a vintage one.
@@RelativeTime I am very happy for you, it is a handsome watch. And good shout to the Tag...but now the question is, since they look so different why can't you have both?
It's from a random company I found online. Called Babu Handmade Leather babuhandmadeleather.com/product/dark-red-vegetable-tanned-leather-watch-band-sw065/ I've bought a couple of their straps and they are pretty nice. Buckles are just ok, but the leather is good.
I really like that watch, was going to purchase it...but after trying it on I changed my mind. It is to big for my 6.33" wrist, that was a disappointing day.
In some of the super-closeup shots (at around 6:07, 7:05 and a few other moments,) it looks like the lume was kind of sloppily painted onto the 4 o'clock indicator. Is that evident at all to the naked eye, or just something that shows up under magnification?
Good eye, I never noticed it before. Checked some other angles, and yah looks like there might be something there. I'll have to look closer with the macro lens later. But yah... not noticeable in person at all. Macro brings out a lot more then you hope for at times.
It's not too bad, but definitely noticeable. When I heard they released a mechanical version, I assumed it was to make a thinner one. Yet the new Mechanical's are still over 14mm tall. No idea why.
Always great to get a grail that you are absolutely happy with. I'd definitely feel okay taking the Hammy swimming or even diving but you know my stance on 30m WR watches and swimming too 😁 And at a 2k rrp - it's definitely a luxury piece - with a modified 7753 and Swatch support you can rest assured you have great servicing options in-house with Swatch group or from any reputable watchmaker. Looking at Swiss "macro"brands will give you a good comparison for micro or Chinese factory brands too I think. Additionally the point about homages is really good - I still remember getting a Borealis Seahawk to scratch my Pelagos itch...and ultimately decided to get the Tudor in the end - a win for both Borealis and Tudor 😊 Well wear!
Same thing happened with a Longines Conquest Homage. Got one a long time ago, and there was just something about it. So not too long ago I got the Longines VHP GMT. I need to get around to it's review too. Very cool watch, but I don't think many people will every buy it.
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@@RelativeTime On our local Irish watch forums we have people who love quartz and appreciate the tech and development behind it too. And HAQ like the Longines VHP is impressive too (5 seconds per year accuracy right?) - it was interesting when I learnt about the growing of quartz crystals - there's something organic-like about that process. With HAQ/VHP quartz like the accutron or Citizen/Seiko offerings there's a different world of watchmaking to appreciate and experience too. Sure - I love my Speedy - but you can't go wrong with a nice G-Shock (or Pro-trek in my case).
![[UA] Team Vitality проти NAVI | IEM Cologne 2024](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/wttO1zVRTC0/mqdefault.jpg)
I want to thank everyone who has joined me on this Horological Journey! As this is a milestone I want to share.
Although I have a few notes:
1. Recently Hamilton released a new mechanical version of their Intra-Matic chronographs. The Intra-Matic Chronograph H Even if those were available when I bought this, I would have still gone with the automatic version. There are a few differences with the white panda of the mechanical. Mostly they got rid of the black Tachymeter, and they used an old-radium-colored lume instead of the white. I much prefer the look of this one.
That and even though it's mechanical, I don't think it's almost as thick as the automatic.
2. For whatever reason my camera decided to act up when filming the intro and outro. Half of my footage I'm out of focus, so I used what I could, and covered the rest up with B-roll. Not a huge deal, but always a little frustrating.
Regardless, I love this watch. Enjoy!
Hello, I recently picked up a timex Q blue red white dial. I was wondering if you wanted to review it. I haven’t opened it so you could unbox it. Lmk thanks 😊 also 50% on tillys website, I think the auto m78 is selling for 150$ in that site.
M79*
I LOVE the mechanical version and just got it myself! To each their own, I'm glad you got a grail of yours!
I only got about 7 minutes in and I'm starting to wonder if your "grail" watch is one you really didn't like, but thought you had to have. The date window, by the way, is not a simple cutout. It's beveled and framed with an outline. Could be that maybe you're offering all these nit picky critiques to try not to gush, I guess, or to thwart some negative comments about your choice, but either way it looks like you're making every effort to avoid enjoying it. Folks, always try on a watch you ]think[ is your "grail". Some watches, like heroes, are disappointing in-person.
That is very true at times. Although for me, despite how it sounds at times I do love this one.
Part of my "review philosophy" is that no watch is ever perfect, but that's ok. It's fine to enjoy and love imperfect things. So, I see my role as to point out everything, good and bad. That way people know what to expect and won't be surprised by anything if they ever get one.
That and I try and do my best to treat every watch the same when I review it. Regardless of if I bought it, borrowed it, or was given to the channel. So even though it's one of my "Grails", if I think I would mention it there, I should mention it here.
Just purchased this watch today with an amazing discount of 50%, as the movement is worth more than thousand bucks it was a brilliant deal. I absolutely love this watch! Thanks for the video!
Thats a great price. Glad you enjoyed the video, and hope you love the watch as much as I do.
@@RelativeTime honeymoon period but I think I love this watch, just like my seamaster chrono this is an amazing watch. I just uploaded a teaser: ua-cam.com/video/4PWNqlz6tOY/v-deo.html Of course I am a beginner here :)
Congrats. I had and really adored the blue reverse panda version. The crown on this feels so solid with pretty good tactile feel. One of the most as accurate watches out of the box I've owned. I can see this being a re-buy down the line.
4 things I wish were different.
1) It's not a super big deal, but, I would have appreciated if they found a way to be able to change the date via the crown versus using a tool to push the little button by the 10 to set it
2) I wish the dial would have had "Intra-matic" or "Chrono-matic" like they used to write on the dial instead of plain old "automatic". I mean they did it for the recent non-chronograph version.
3) I do believe the lugs could be a little shorter. Proportionately, I think the vintage models had shorter lugs in comparison.
4) Yes, the line could be better. Hey, if you're going to have some, make it bright and long lasting enough. Hamilton has had a long history of lack luster lime. However, supposedly, more r event models have better lune than before. And, although this is a racing chronograph style, I can't imagine why having good lume for driving at night wouldn't be useful. If anything, u want to be able to read the watch quickly at a glance while driving and having better lune can only help.
Otherwise, a superb watch for a decent price.. even better if discounted or grey market. I'd easily take one of these over the new manual wind which disappointed by being more expensive and not even really any thinner. Plus, I prefer the contrast tachy on the autos and actually like the date at 6 which the new manual wind ones do not have.
I also believe a grail watch doesn't have to necessarily be expensive and/or hard to get. I think the strong desire to own a watch you really really love can be grail status enough, imho.
Thank you good setting the record straight on the idea of a Grail watch, everyone's taste is not the same and that's fine.
Congrats on the watch - it’s a great watch!
If you don’t want to use the included plastic “H” tool to advance the date, try a toothpick - they also work.
And I agree with you 100% about homage watches - they are great to try before buying a much more expensive version of something similar in looks/style. I have done this before also with success.
I love Hamilton in general, and an automatic chronograph is great to see! I will be saving for a long time, but this has become my new grail... Great review as always Shane!!!
Thanks! There is also the newer mechanical version they just came out with. Although for some reason it's not much thinner, and slightly different dial design.
I’ve been collecting watches for 35 years and own Rolex, Breguet, and Omega among others. I bought myself this watch and couldn’t be happier. It’s a quality watch and Hamilton is considered luxury, just entry level luxury and it’s their best made watch. The movement is based on a Valjoux and that is a tall chrono movement, it is typical and some way more expensive Chronos are just as tall. I also like the date change button better than going through the stem, it’s easier on your fingers and you’re less likely to make a mistake and Hamilton includes a handy tool to do this. It’s a great watch no matter how you cut it.
That Hammy is sweet! Congrats!
It sure is!
As someone new to watches I don’t understand the communities focus on “value”. Buy what you want regardless of the price, assuming you can easily afford it. I have other hobbies where the community focuses on “value” and it can ruin the fun of it. If you want to sell because you don’t like the item and you lose some money then so be it.
I think nothing suits this watch better than the tan leather strap. Only tan leather has that natural appearance that goes along with every single watch, whatever the model, whatever the color.
Red rally strap was my favorite! Thanks for showing us a few strap options.
Excellent review. Mine arrives Monday (early Christmas present from myself) and getting it full kit on the grey market at $1450 (trusted and proven source), so I’m very excited to add this to the collection.
@@sahtemehdiavcstarkd8712 yep! Love it
Being rated to 100m, you are certainly safe to swim with that watch. Water resistance isn't dictated solely by the presence of a screw down crown or not. Internal gaskets are key to water resistance, the addition of a screw down crown is a nice-to-have though. Given that Hamilton's own field watches are only rated to 50m and more chronographs (I'm looking at you, Breitling) are only rated to 30m, the fact the Intra-Matic has 100m is a major plus.
This is a gorgeous watch. Dial is comparable to a Breitling premiere chrono or the new Tudor BB chrono which costs more than double than the Hamilton and over 8k for the Breitling. For around 2k, Hamilton is a great choice.
First of all, congrats on getting your grail timepiece. I also agree with your definition. For example, my two grails are the Panerai 609 and the Seiko Giugiaro with a blue dial. Most of the pieces in my collection are priced in the middle of my two grail extremes so obviously, price is not the issue. It is about finding the piece of your heart's desire. I have been saving for the Pam 609 so it is only a matter of time before I make the buy. With regard to the Giugiaro, it is only a $400 dollar watch that was released for the Japanese market. One ray of hope, I do speak Japanese, on with my quest. 😉
Congrats on your first Grail Piece! I love this watch, but as I am a lover of all things vintage, the hand winding version they just released is more my speed.
I’m surprised you went for the Hamilton instead of the Red Star Panda. I see you did get a Merkur / Pierre Paulin! I guess it's time for a comparison video! Thanks
That is a beautiful watch. I have a Longines that uses the 7753. I keep a toothpick tucked into the pillow of its watch box for date changes. And yes, the rotor can be quite loud.
That's a good tip with the toothpick. There was a little plastic tool included with the watch, but I always forget where I put it.
A fantastic watch. I have watches costing 4x the price of the Hamilton but this one is absolutely bang for buck perfect.
Don't agree with some of your negatives though. It's not a tailor made watch for your wrist so either get bigger wrists or a smaller watch. The hight is what it is at this price point but the domed back allowes the watch to sit into the wrist so dosent wear to tall on the wrist. I've not experienced any rotor wobble or top heaviness at all, but I have mine on the bracelet if that makes any difference.
Thanks Shane. $2190 VS my $270 Dan Henry 1962, blue dial/date that makes me happy 😊 every time I wear and look at it.
Not sure I understand this comment, are you saying your Dan Henry is better because it is cheaper?
@@Andrew.W75 Hahaaa, No, that's not what I said. I meant for my use is doing the same job and is affordable. How many of us are diving, running etc because we bought the watch? maybe 1%.
@@FortuneCookieMeditation Arh ok, yes no one uses watches for their Intended purpose anymore. That's Why I like vintage, made back in the day when you needed a watch!
@@Andrew.W75 Me too, anything old days was much better and meaningful than all new trendy stuff today.
Nice indulgence Shane! Enjoy your new watch and wear it in good health. Congratulations for being very consistent for the last three years. You deserve a snappy mechanical chronograph
Thank you, and thanks for watching. My watch budget has always been tied to the channel, so it's growth has helped me get here.
It's a beautiful watch. I would take this over one of the new Tudor panda's any day. I'm jealous for the moment. It's on my list! Excellent review and appreciate the effort going in to making it.👍
Thanks!
Why? Just the price? Don’t get me wrong, I love these Hamiltons and I’m thinking pretty hard about picking up the new manual wind version, but the Tudor Chrono really is miles apart from this in terms of quality
@@stuartcole4845 The Tudor is on a whole other level. The Tudor is comparable to the Breitling and Zenith Chronos. It’s probably as good as a Daytona. Vertical clutch column wheel movements. I’ve been looking to buy a Chronograph and I can’t find the Tudor at retail. The Hamilton is fine and good for the money. The buzzing by the Valjoux would probably start annoying me.
@@rickjason215 I love the new Tudor Chronos but having that snowflake hand is really disappointing from a design perspective given the degree to which it can obscure the sundials. And yes, they are in heavy demand in most parts of the world so you might end up on a wait list.
On the contrary, it is a luxury level timepiece, just not as expensive as some of the other brands.
Getting mine in a few months.
Will be wearing it in Vegas for the F1 race in November.
Thank you for sharing
Love the shots with different straps. Great review and great video!
It's a great looking watch! I've seen other UA-camrs review it, I personally prefer it with the mesh strap.
Congrats! It’s a beautiful watch. I’m considering the green/cream variant. It’s nice to see you breaking away from Chinese specials and micros into something further up the ladder, if only temporarily. If I’m being honest, I have trouble getting excited about the latest Phobos or Spinnaker. This, on the other hand, is worth a close look. Your photography does not disappoint. Wear it in good health.
Congratulations! A beautiful piece!
I was just looking at the green version of this!
Its not only a grail, its also a beauty. Your Choice of Color is also my preference. But I like more the metalstrap. Congrats.
The watch looks aweseom... but man, those straps are eye-candy.
Thanks! Was fun picking them out.
Thanks. You did help me deciding on getting it. Great video and love the dark red leather band too.
Nice Watch. I've been collecting vintage Hamiltons for about 20 years or so. Started with a 1916 992B pocket watch...then a 30's Merrit, and a few 50's models. Went through the Khaki phase, but they didn't really do much for me except, help drain my wallet. I really like the intra-metic, and you chose the RIGHT color combo of the Panda... I myself am hoping to someday pick up a Pan Euro.....That watch really speaks to me....
Congrats!!! It is a very handsome piece. Great review , a very comprehensive overview for potential buyers or curious hobbiest's.
This is one of my grails. Beautiful watch. Thanks for the honest review.
Nice review and love how you threw in all the straps. I have the Panda and so far really like it. Plan on getting camel color strap.
How are you still enjoying this one? I just picked up the sage green color on the bracelet and very excited. I’ve been wanting a true chrono for sometime. Also I’d def consider this watch luxury 2k is a lot of money and more than most can afford. I got mine for 1600
That's a beautiful watch. A worthy grail, 100%. Had a Hamilton Khaki X Wind automatic chronograph, fantastic watch, loved it - sold it to get one of my grails (Aquis) & I do miss it.
Congratulations 👍🏻👍🏻
I was looking at the X wind online the other day. Very cool looking. Congrats on the Aquis!
Of the available colorways, I like the panda, too. The different shades of white on the dial is a very nice touch. Overall, it appears to be a great watch .
I think this is a very nice chrono, probably the best choice in this price range. I love how it looks with the bordeaux rally strap!
Congrats, Shane! I'm not into chronographs, however, this one looks great. Love the review as well.
Thanks for this detailed and fair review. This is really on the top spot for my next watch. I just haven't figured out which color to pick. Given my small collection I tend to take the blue version. But sage green and classic Panda are also very nice. As I don't mind buying second hand, I can wait and see until I know whether an offer is a bargain or not.
Congratulations 🎉 on the Hamelton , I bought the Hamelton Khaki field a few weeks ago very pleased ⌚
A grail watch is one you are dreaming and pushing to own. Your grail is a new Hammy; I just bought mine, a Patek Philippe tank from 1945, complete with a gift engraving “Charley From Esther - Christmas 1945”. The main difference is a matter of taste, really. You can wear yours; I’m a custodian of an artwork- I owe that to Charley and Esther.
I enjoy owning my artwork, you enjoy owning your toy. Since we both enjoy it, we both win, right?
Exactly. That's an amazing piece. I've been wanting to get some vintage pieces, but always been worried about who to trust when buying. Congrats as well!
I love that watch, but the thickness keeps me away. I prefer the blue dial myself, but that panda dial is the also stunning.
Congrats, beautiful watch. Love the old timey Hamilton logo.
My grail watch is either a Stowa hand winding or a Seiko SPB217. Naturally I like Grand Seiko. Personally I'm not big on chronos. The one I own is a Oakley Judge, with a copper colored dial. It is a quartz.
Great choice and congrats on a truly wonderful time piece
I also have and love this watch. The thickness is less on an issue then you would think because of the shape of the case back, it sinks into the wrist making it appear more like a 10 - 12mm watch. The rotor is loud but I like that in a watch, adds a bit more personality/character. The only issue I have with this and all Hamilton watches I’ve owned is that the straps bring me out in a rash! No other brand has done this, anyone else had this problem?
Either way great review and I’m definitely getting that red strap!
replace it
Nice watch and review. Yes, the Red Rally strap looks great!
Hamilton makes great watches, and yours looks wonderful! A great purchase.
Comparing watch prices in todays world I think this watch has what is needed . So, ask for more and more features in this price range isn't going to happen.
If you really want more and more spend 5,000 and you may get them but after all is said and done you may not be any more happier.
Great looking watch Shane. Congratulations on obtaining your first grail watch. It's a little out of my price range though. I do have a similar looking Sugess '1963' ST1901 which scratches that itch though. Plus its a 38mm too, which I like. I'm with you on preferring chronographs with two sub dials over the three.
Thanks. I think I remember that video. I'll have to check it out again. Hard to go wrong with a Panda.
@@RelativeTime That's very true.
Lovely watch... congratulations on a grail! Hamilton is a beautiful and classy brand, they know how to nail it. I'd like it overall smaller and not as tall, probably my biggest negative. Yes, a few things that could be improved, but absolutely a win!
Congrats brother what a beauty!
Some of this review is a bit confusing. If you’re complaining about the height on this watch, a exhibition case back will probably add another 1-1.5mm to the thickness AND raise the watch further off the wrist (2 of your other complaints).
Also, mesh bracelets simply don’t come with endlinks (it would look pretty stupid in my opinion). Given the relatively small price difference between the mesh and the leather, not going with the mesh is a mistake in my opinion. The mesh bracelet on these with the deployant system is one of the best I’ve seen. You can buy leather straps anywhere, but you won’t buy a third party mesh this good without spending a lot of money.
My golden rule of watch collecting is that if the watch can come with a bracelet, that’s what I buy. It broadens the resell market and if you do decide you want the OEM bracelet later, they always charge a steep premium.
I agree on all points and I’ve been a big fan of this watch since it was first re-introduced...I agree that the hour and minute hand or just a bit too short...What do you think about having the red arrow tip secondhand from the khaki king automatic? Or even putting a little red tip on the chrono hands as well...dunno...But I can’t help thinking just a dab of color would add to the watch...Thanks for the great review Shane!
Spectacular watch! Well done.
Thank you for your review I really enjoyed it . Being I also have this Intra matic I really think you nail it . Although I have sent mine back to swatch twice . The rota was really loud & clunky , the second time the date kept jamming . & the watch was gainging 5 minutes a week which is way above Hamiltons , 10 - 15 seconds daily . I love the the watch though as it has a lot of character . Especially the dial , the cream face panda give it even more of a retro look . It is quite bulky & 49 lug - lug does lop over to one side a bit on my 7 inch wrist . So a 48 would be better like you said . Thanks again
Sorry to hear about your watch ... One thing to note though, a loud/clunky rotor is absolutely normal and expected on any movement that is derived from a 775x. The H31 is just a 7753 at the end of the day. This "clunkiness" you're feeling is also referred to as "rotor wobble". They won't be able to take that away. If I'm not mistaken, it's because the movement only has uni-directional winding.
Congrats Chane with your grail piece. For the money there are a lot of Chronographs to choose from. I have some time to think about before I can buy my first grail. Sinn, Hanhart, Longines...? I've not descided yet.
Congrats on a great piece 👍👍. Love the 🐼 style. I want to get a chronograph at some point but not sure if I want a full mechanical or mechaquartz.
Congrats! I have the blue reverse panda version and it also is my first grail watch.
Congrats as well. Have you kept it on the stock strap?
@@RelativeTime I kept it on it for almost a year. I now have it on a blue Colareb Firenze leather strap. It looks amazing. I will most likely buy another Colareb strap for it and change from time to time.
That watch is on my to buy list. Now you are making me think twice about my rado captain cook in which i bought over this one. Lol.
The Captain Cooks are lookers. Nice watch
Exasperates the issue? Not exacerbate? Brits love Americans, you make us feel so smart.
I'll try to remember that next July when I'm watching the fireworks. 😜
It is a beautiful watch. One that I am going to add to my wish list.
Mechanical chronograph? Heck, yeah!
I prefer the Hamilton intra Matic chrono and the BB chrono to the Daytona.
Black/gold nato was beautiful on your watch.
That was a great combo.
This is next on my list to buy!!!!
Very nice watch I have some Hamilton’s on my list that I want mostly in the khaki aviation
So nice on the tan leather!
Found my grail 2 months ago, up until then I didn’t even know it existed. Got it for $600 Seiko SARW015
Hello Shane, I bought the exact same watch last friday and love it. Personly you are very nitpicking on this one. A lot of things you could know before, suche as set the date, thickness etc etc. I enjoy your strap choiches. Thanks for that.
Some of it I knew before hand, but sometimes it still surprises you in person. Part of my review philosophy is to try and treat every watch to the same. So even though I love it, I was trying not to hold back.
@@RelativeTime Thanks for your reply, shane. 👍👍👍👍
Nice to hear tachometer said the right way
This is a very beautiful classic design, there is questioning it. And while we're already at nitpicking: I've seen nicer caseback designs and at this price point they should give you a plastic tool to push the date adjusting button. Personally I wouldn't spend this much money on a watch like this, especially as there are a few homages out there that do the same thing for significantly less money. I very much enjoyed the review with once again brilliant macro footage! Cheers Shane
Thanks! A little plastics H tool was included, I just keep forgetting where I put it.
“I prefer the simplicity of a bi-subdial design”
*me looking at my four subdial and alarm calibre 2100*
Those are pretty cool looking, but long run I'd prefer more of a cleaner / simpler design.
@RelativeTime indeed I ended up with a nezumi loews as well to sneak peak into the hami intramatic
Lovely piece!!.😀
Congrats! It's a beauty 👌
Thanks! 👍 I noticed on instagram you got to look at some of the mechanical versions. How do you like them?
@@RelativeTime They're really nice. I'm working on a video today so hopefully it's posted tonight. Wasn't sure how I felt about the faux patina at first but its pretty subtle. Works with the watches I think.
@@TimeToGoTravelAndTimepieces That was one thing I wasn't sure of. That and on the white dial panda it looks like they got rid of the black tachymeter.
Are they still pretty thick?
@@RelativeTime They are. 14.9mm.
Nice review of this hamilton watch😉
Hamilton watch lover here.👍
Thanks!
solid review sir!!
Much appreciated!
Grail is grail. I collect a couple of different items and I have my own grails which are not always everyone else's.
Great review. I like the look of chronographs, but I also like solid WR. I've got a SNA413 that has had the hardlex scratched to bits, and a Citizen Endeavour that's WR failed me after many sun and sand holidays. If I were to get another chrono, I would go for an out-and-out retro-racer style and forget about going anywhere near water, and it is common internet lore that the Sea-Gull ST19 is luck of the draw as to if you get a solid movement, so for an auto...that pointed my eyes straight at this Hamilton. Your review highlights every disappointment I thought I might have...so I have no idea where my grail is when you get past spending a few hundred.
But I do know Daytona and Speedmaster do nothing for me...the Navitimer is getting there, but I know I would still be disappointed
Despite it's flaws I still love it, and no plans to sell it.
Now one the other chronos I was looking at was the Tag Monaco. Lot of cool history there, and not much else out there with the square design. Some day I might look into one as well, or maybe a vintage one.
@@RelativeTime I am very happy for you, it is a handsome watch. And good shout to the Tag...but now the question is, since they look so different why can't you have both?
my fav Hamilton watch looks brill ...
Thanks!
Would be nice to look how it compares to something like Pierre Paulin Panda
Same thought i really like the watch face. But the thickness turns me off
It's not too bad on the rest, but I do wish it was a little thinner.
Not my jam but congrats on nabbing a personal Grail watch!💪😁
Hi Shane, can you please tell the name of the red strap? Or can you share a link of that strap! It looks fantastic
It's from a random company I found online. Called Babu Handmade Leather
babuhandmadeleather.com/product/dark-red-vegetable-tanned-leather-watch-band-sw065/
I've bought a couple of their straps and they are pretty nice. Buckles are just ok, but the leather is good.
I really like that watch, was going to purchase it...but after trying it on I changed my mind. It is to big for my 6.33" wrist, that was a disappointing day.
A beautiful Panda 🐼 I'm going to call it Chi Chi.
In some of the super-closeup shots (at around 6:07, 7:05 and a few other moments,) it looks like the lume was kind of sloppily painted onto the 4 o'clock indicator. Is that evident at all to the naked eye, or just something that shows up under magnification?
Good eye, I never noticed it before. Checked some other angles, and yah looks like there might be something there. I'll have to look closer with the macro lens later. But yah... not noticeable in person at all. Macro brings out a lot more then you hope for at times.
As long a you can't see it while it's on your wrist (and as long as it's not a functional flaw) then it doesn't really matter.
Hi where did you get the red rally strap from?
No doubt it's a lovely looking watch I just think the thickness is too much for me
It's not too bad, but definitely noticeable. When I heard they released a mechanical version, I assumed it was to make a thinner one. Yet the new Mechanical's are still over 14mm tall. No idea why.
An fantastic Watch ✌✌✌✌
What's the size of the Red Rally Strap that you got please? Is it 20x20mm?
Well it is a 20mm, but don't remember the length
@@RelativeTime thanks for your response
Where you get the beautiful red holed leather strap???
I might have a link in the description. Otherwise it's from a small company called babu hand made leather.
get the LZ 126
The Zeppelin? That's a good looking watch. I've been meaning to look at them for a while. Seems like a good place to start.
@@RelativeTime yes i think its their best chrono model
Have 2 variants, keepers
Always great to get a grail that you are absolutely happy with.
I'd definitely feel okay taking the Hammy swimming or even diving but you know my stance on 30m WR watches and swimming too 😁
And at a 2k rrp - it's definitely a luxury piece - with a modified 7753 and Swatch support you can rest assured you have great servicing options in-house with Swatch group or from any reputable watchmaker.
Looking at Swiss "macro"brands will give you a good comparison for micro or Chinese factory brands too I think. Additionally the point about homages is really good - I still remember getting a Borealis Seahawk to scratch my Pelagos itch...and ultimately decided to get the Tudor in the end - a win for both Borealis and Tudor 😊
Well wear!
Same thing happened with a Longines Conquest Homage. Got one a long time ago, and there was just something about it. So not too long ago I got the Longines VHP GMT. I need to get around to it's review too. Very cool watch, but I don't think many people will every buy it.
@@RelativeTime On our local Irish watch forums we have people who love quartz and appreciate the tech and development behind it too. And HAQ like the Longines VHP is impressive too (5 seconds per year accuracy right?) - it was interesting when I learnt about the growing of quartz crystals - there's something organic-like about that process.
With HAQ/VHP quartz like the accutron or Citizen/Seiko offerings there's a different world of watchmaking to appreciate and experience too.
Sure - I love my Speedy - but you can't go wrong with a nice G-Shock (or Pro-trek in my case).
Certified 7750/SW500 Day/Date junkie. Have a burgundy Broadway on a bracelet. One sec/day is typical Hammy accuracy.
That's a gorgeous looking watch. How's the strap that came with it?
@@RelativeTime, fully articulated center links with a butterfly. The top moves 5-10°, the bottom 90°. Really comfortable.
The valjoux 7750 is known as the wobbler
I can see that... or rather hear that.