Buying Your First Swiss Watch? - Why Hamilton Is The Best Under $500 + Unboxing The Ultimate Khaki
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- Опубліковано 14 вер 2022
- Whether you're looking to buy your first high quality, Swiss-made watch, or searching for something unique, historically or horologically important, or simply in the market for something cool, new or vintage to add to your existing collection, Hamilton tops the list for watches under $500. So what do they offer compared to the many heavyweight Swiss brands in this price range? In today's video I share my top picks from Hamilton's new collections, including the Khaki Mechanical 38 Manual Wind, the Khaki Automatic, and the Khaki King, and why I believe these are the perfect affordable, Swiss made, everyday, do-it-all watches. I discuss the rich, illustrious history of Hamilton, their many horological innovations and vast array of designs, and sweet spots in the vintage market. I also share an unboxing of a rare vintage watch I managed to score for a bargain (just under $300) to highlight the kind of lost gems you can still find in 2022, and why it's one of the ultimate field watches out there-and an absolute strap monster. Join me for a Hamilton extravaganza and personal love letter to a brand that's very close to my heart.
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#unboxing #watches #strapmonster #hamilton - Навчання та стиль
Man I love Hamilton, in fact, my family owns a mirror which was made out of a window pane from the old Hamilton factory in Lancaster! And now, attending college in Lancaster, even though the factory no longer stands, it is really cool to be in a town with such American watch history. (And of course, there is a watch shop right down the road which sells Hamilton watches… and omega :))
As a guy who has spent close to thirty years as a logistics guy for the DOD (23+ years Air Force and 6+ years with DLA), LOVE seeing the national stock number on the back of that gorgeous watch!
Think I’ll ask my unit to order one for me!
Nailed it. The Hamilton Khaki was my first Swiss made watch and if I didn’t have the watch bug, it would have been easy to stop there. Great recommendation and great new addition to your collection.
Hamilton is easily my favorite and most sentimental watch brand. I remember as a fresh into the world, 19 year old, seeing a Hamilton Ventura at a mall jewelry store and it catching my eye. It was the first time a watch really caught my attention. It was the first time I had that pining for one and it sparked a lifelong interest in watches and horology. My biggest passion is for film, so I have always appreciated Hamilton's cinematic ties. Aside from that, they seem to have found the perfect balance of heritage, quality and timeless style, without being gaudy, unobtainable expensive, over-indulgent or pretentious. My first automatic, which is still my most worn watch, is my Hamilton Khaki Field Automatic, (on a black and gray NATO, of course), which is an absolutely perfect time piece. Presently, I am setting aside some money to buy an Intra-Matic as my first chronograph.
The Intra-Matic is absolute class. So glad there are Gentry out there who adore cinema as much as me.
Thank you for the comment and support, onwards and upwards my friend!
Best regards,
TGV
I’m 20 here, and I was finally able to save up and get my first watch…The Khaki Field Auto! Haha. Got it last month. Currently on the bracelet but in 2 weeks I’ll get a khaki nato and a gray one 😁
In my bumpy journey 'hunting' for a vintage Hamilton Khaki mil-spec GG-W-113, and after a few bad experiences,
I was able to find a Benrus GG-W-113 from 1967 which is the military-Vietnam-war version of the Steve McQueen Bullitt wristwatch. 😎
... and for just a bit more than 500 €.
Speaking of Hamilton, well I was also lucky to put the hand on a vintage Lancaster Hamilton Automatic Chronograph, Ref. 9304.
Those are two of my best watch experiences. Beautiful pieces... and their values continue to increase.
Looking back what a journey... with a happy ending.
Hamilton was my first Swiss watch and fell into it without any real knowledge of their history. This was 3 years ago. I now own four Hammies and love each and every one of them. Such value and variable style with tremendous history(which I am now aware of). Truly a great stepping stone into horological market.
I just added the new version of the Pulsar to my collection. What a fun watch! I find myself needlessly checking the time because pushing that button so cool. Also love my Mil-spec Khaki which reminds me of my late ‘80s Army service. Another great review TGV!
I just got the 36mm Pilot Pioneer Mechanical. The W10 reissue. What a beautiful watch. Very happy with it.
TGV, this video caught me wearing my Khaki F Mechanical. Which I bought on account of seeing your review of it with that awesome pacific theatre intro blasting Starship Troopers soundtrack.
Many people associate you with Seiko but for me this is channel is as much a home to Hamilton ❤️.
Never change!
New to Watc h collecting . 14 watches the first year. Then I discovered t this channel. I watch you morre than .most channels. Just ordered my first Tissot, and a better seiko 5 . Love the reviews...I've learned a lot the last few months. Tha k you for helping me make better choices .
Keep them coming.
All the best...
Yes, I think that Hamilton is a brand that generates enthusiasm no matter how “upscale” a watch collector gets. I have the Dillinger pocket watch in the same case you showed plus to LL Bean variants of the field watch and the 7750 based chronograph. And a modern Pan Europ chronograph. Keep up the good work.
Totally agree. I love my Khaki King champagne dial. It's fantastic on so many different straps. I even bought the bracelet for it separately which is nice but usually wear it on leather.
thanks TGV always enjoy your research and knowledge
Thanks TGV, always fun - still the best watch channel out there!
I don't know why but when I first started collecting watches I gravitated towards Hamilton Watches. I knew they were at one time an American co. and I loved all the different watches. I ended up owning five Hamiltons. I gave one to each of my sons and one to my wife. My favorite is the Khaki field mechanical. It is so cool to manually wind it and it keeps great time. It's a company with such great heritage. The Swatch Group is a good fit for Hamilton. Thanks for another great video. Don't turn your back on Hugo.
Another great video TGV, I just recently bought my first Hamilton on a trip to Switzerland, I chose the limited edition Chrono Matic 50, my first automatic mechanical chronograph. I certainly wouldn’t hesitate to purchase another example from this great brand. Cheers.
I remember that when the film Pearl Harbour came out in 2001 there was a big campaign for the Hamilton khaki as both Affleck and Hartlett wore it in the film.
TGV your research, editing and communication skills are brilliant! I always learn so much from your work!
Great history lesson TGV and photography. The new offered collection is great. Thank you. 🥃🥃🥃
Well done, TGV. My everyday watch is a Hamilton Khaki Field King Quartz... incredibly accurate and unpretentious. Got it a little over two years ago for less than $250.
Absolutely LOVE my 42mm auto. It's my only Swiss made watch, but I'm damn proud of it!
Couldn't agree more with your comments for this iconic brand. Still have my Hamilton Khaki (black titanium) in my collection ... great video!
My favorite watch k own is my Hamilton khaki field mechanical. I bought it my grandpa said he had one almost identical to yours in Vietnam so it has that sentimental value too. Great video as always TGV thanks again.
Awesome video, great history. Thanks TGV
Had to think about this for a bit, but TGV, I believe you nailed it.
My father received a Ventura he had ruminated on forever for his 30th anniversary, I hope to pick up an Intra-Matic when our 1st child is born, our family loves Hamilton.
4 months ago a bought my 42mm Kakhi field Auto and I'm loving every tick of it.
hello again from Macau, history rich video once again, and reading the comment section it looks like you've hit close to the heart for this one. As pure as it gets in a world of growing watch snoberies and investment pieces.
Hamilton khaki king definitely on my radar, nice understated winner. Great video sir, thank you
My Khaki Mech is by far my favorite watch in my collection. A true icon!
Absolutely Not going too far matching the outfit with the time piece, I do it all the time and to be honest IDC what other people think. I love your channel and I hardly ever comment but I think you are an asset to youtube. Thank you for your dedication and keeping us up to date on the watch world. I recently watch one of your videos on ten things not to do to a watch and I really appreciate it I have a bad habit of winding my watches while they are on my wrist but will not do that anymore after watching your video it was an Eye opener. God bless.
As a glasses wearer for 30 years, I have long used old glasses cases for watch storage, the cleaning cloths come in handy too! Love the history you cover in your videos, keep up the good work!
I do this too!
Excelent recommendation, love your videos, a fan from México here, i have so much respect for hamilton, love my khaki aviation.
Love, ive just bought one for work, well impressed
Totally agree with you on Hamilton at this price! I love my brown dial, green strap version and I got it on Jomashop for only $375!!
One of my clients last week was wearing a Hamilton. I complimented him on it. He had it over 25yrs, wore it just about every day, the thing looked gorgeous.
I have several Hamiltons and I am a big fan of them. There are still quite a few I'd be happy to add to my collection.
My 42mm Khaki auto has really gone to the ends of the earth with me and is still doing well. My Ironman went to war and back but it is now retired and resting nicely. The Khaki is almost as thick as the leather band that holds it together...fabulous
As always the history and reviews of the time pieces is immaculate but I've been thinking about this for awhile, have you ever considered releasing an EP? I seriously sit there and replay the intro quite often as it has such an awesome beat.
Keep up the amazing work
I just saw the listing you where you bought this. Wow! You got such a steam! Congrats!!
Yes, they’re a great brand with a great history and a great range of contemporary watches too! My favorite affordable Swiss watchmaker as well 👍
A brilliant horological review of Hamilton - well done, TGV. And it is always a real pleasure to see Hugo! I want Hamilton to issue a Khaki Field Mechanical version in 36mm, I would buy that in a New York minute. My nomination for best Swiss watch under $500 is the Glycine Combat Sub (I paid $315 for mine last year from Joma). Incredible bang for the buck!
Love my white dial khaki field mechanical. As you like to say, it is an absolute strap monster. Gains less than a second a day and looks great in most situations. It’s a keeper.
Great review of Hamilton watches & Congratulations 🥳 on the new watch to your collection .
Gosh I want a Khaki King still! Really appreciated your review of it Sir!
I'm wearing the Hamilton Viewmatic (H32515555) shown at 10:20 right now! I got it about two years ago and it has served me well. I don't see it featured in much watch content online so this was a welcome surprise!
i got the hamilton day date you recommended on your old video way back and i love it . they make great pieces!
I recently picked up the Khaki King in champagne dial and put it on a dark brown, Horween leather strap. It looks great with anything from a suit to shorts and T-shirt. It’s an incredible watch for barely over $400 new.
Just purchased a Khaki King yesterday. Thank you for the insight on Hamilton's history. I purchased a used one for just over 300 US. Excellent value
👏👏👏👏
Enjoy. Thank you,
Best regards,
TGV
Love the intro with Hugo the message behind it is nice. TGV is independent and his reviews are entertaining there's no one besides him in charge. Been a fan for a while. People who hate on the internet have are just ridiculous.
I have owned a Hamilton Khaki Field 42 auto on the brown leather strap for over a year @ £365 discounted and it's my regular beater watch. Maybe I'm lucky, but it keeps excellent time being rarely more than +1 secs a day overall in a rotation on my wrist, a watch winder or laid static for a day or two crown up. Highly recommend.
I purchased the "Interstellar" a week after your presentation on your channel, sold or exchanged many watches but that one is a keeper, live long and prosper
I am THIS close to getting my first Hamilton. Can't wait. Thanks, TGV.
Do it, you won't be disappointed
Thank you for the good video.I got to know the history of the Hamilton watch.I also have a khaki field watch and I am very satisfied and using it well.It goes well with various watch bands.
Well done, TGV. Hamilton, truly an iconic, and ever respectable brand. Very classy indeed, IMHO. Cheers
Hahaha loved the wall street sketch, my favourite film 😂 I’ve always loved Hamilton and my khaki king .
Great video. Wearing my Khaki automatic 38mm today. 👍
Great video my friend! I do regret selling my Hamilton Khaki. It was a great watch! Cheers!
Appreciate the research TGV!
My nomination for best Swiss watch under $500 is the Tissot PR-100, I love that watch.
Just ordered one!👍
Excellent work TGV! Thank you.. by the way.. Marc is the maker of one of your travel cases.. very best to you!
Frank in Colorado
Came for the Hamilton and stayed for the Mobb Deep!
Well said! Great piece that’s for sure!
Congratulations on the co-branded Khaki field Watch. As a boy, I always wanted the LL Bean version - I didn’t know about the blue dialed Khaki Mate with the anchor. Great watches.
Jugo for president! Your videos are awesome!
Holy Mother of Godd, that Cartier piece looks divine Sire. Impeccable taste.
I've been collecting watches for some time. I really don't research them, i just buy what I like. I bought my first Hamilton. I bought the Intra-Matic Chrono men's H38416160. it's not a $500 watch. But I've waited for this watch for some time. Green face polished band and casing. it's such a beautiful piece. I've never been happy. It's also caught attention when I've worn it out. Everyone seems to love this watch. your opinion on this watch. Either way I am so happy with my Hamilton.
Here in Blighty, if you're willing to go vintage, I think the greatest Swiss bargains are classically-sized 9ct gold dress watches. You can pick them up all day long for £200-300, factor in £120-200 for a service and the total price is still under £500. Rotary and Accurist are probably the most competitively priced as they have solid Swiss movements, often AS, but lack brand prestige because they've gone so far downmarket today.
These watches were often given to employees as long service gifts by companies so supply is abundant. I have and love two which are from the 70s, both with subseconds and such conservative styling they could have been made in the 60s. A Longines with a champagne dial and a J.W. Benson with linen dial (Queen Victoria's jeweler later acquired by Garrards). I also love the personal history of the inscriptions on the back and the nostalgia for an age where people worked for one company and the company valued them, albeit in a paternalistic way.
Hugo continues to massively crack me up every time he makes an appearance. In his voice and attitudes he bears an uncanny resemblance to an awful guy I was as school with. It may come as a surprise to some viewers but Hugo really isn't much of an exaggeration - there are people out there just like him!
I bought 2 Khaki Fields this year. One black dial with pvd case, one beige dial with silver case. My grandfather's watch battery on his casio died, so I gave him the silver case. He'll never run into the same problem and with a military history it wasn't too hard to get him to "rob" me for it lol. Great watches and perfect first buys for Swiss enthusiasts. You won't find a mechanical at a better price for the quality.
I remember when a Hamilton watch caught my eye. I was working late and looking at watches as I took a break for dinner. I was already interested in watches and owned a Seiko 5 that I loved and still do love. I saw the Khaki King though (I think while watching one of your or Marc's videos actually) and it caught my eye immediately. The price tag was painful at the time, especially after I looked up watch service prices, but I thought that once I could get this watch, I'd know I had made it.
Well, a little while ago I got it! It's a stunning watch and it runs great. But more importantly, even though it's easy to get caught up in what I don't have or where I'd like to be, this watch reminds me to look back and enjoy how far I've come too.
Hasn't stopped ticking since I opened the box :)
These vintage Hamiltons are still incredibly undervalued. I picked up a full set, new-old-stock, 9415A for only 120 usd !!!
Couldn't agree more TGV... Have the Khaki King as well as the Hamilton Panda intramatic, love both of them and they keep fantastic time.... Two of my favorite watches.... Love Hamilton...GG
TGV, Just the bits with your lizardly friend are worth the price of admission. Following it up with captivating topics is just icing on the cake
Hugo!!!!! Loved this video TGV.
I bought your 39mm khaki auto that you sold a year it two ago. Still wear it all the time, it's a great watch! Need to add one of the mil spec ones to the collection soon for sure.
My first “real” watch was a Khaki King in 2013. I’ve since bought several vintage ones, and a Ventura for my wife. They are the true workhorses of my collection. Even the vintage ones, including a ‘70s automatic, are reliable.
As always a great video. I can not argue with your choice. I do not own a Hamilton, but as a watch guy i see it as a hole in my rotation. I do own a couple Victorinox and i can't complain, they have served me well.
I am loving wearing my Grandfather’s vintage Hamilton!
I bet its stunning, nothing like a family heirloom like that, and it being a Hamilton!
Pure class. Thank you for sharing that, enjoy!
Best regards,
TGV
Very informative 👍
The mention of the problems with the post office reminded me of a situation from a few months ago. I had ordered a Casio, and it was shipped in an envelope similar to the on yours came in. It was marked as delivered, but never made it off the truck. It showed up the next day, obviously opened, and badly re-sealed. I guess the mail person thought they had a score, but were unpleasantly surprised.
My Hamilton khaki pearl harbour edition is probably my most worn watch. Dress up or down always looks good.
No doubt one of the best option. But I am glad I went the off beaten path. I got my first mechanical watch, and a Swiss made in that, a Serica 4512 WMB. Yes, a microbrand that I supported very early on, bought it during first batch. Was considering Khaki field, but immediately changed my mind once I stumbled upon this unknown watch from an relatively unknown microbrand. Love at first sight. Saving up to buy my first dive watch next, which is going to be Serica 5303 :D
After some time of buying my Khaki mechanical I went on buying remorse…then gradually my interest picked up again then comes this episode which made that at full 100% recharge!
Solid choice for first auto watch. I totally agree that what I hate the most about the field watch is the sand blasted case. If they can offer a version in simple brush case then Id have it in my collection
I was just thinking about picking one of these up, when on youtube to see if you had made a video about it, and discovered that you did today🤣 Sounds like fate to me!
I have the two interstellar models.. I love them both 🙌🏻
An upper class T Rex, who would have thought how funny Hugo could be. Nice one TGV
Watching this episode made me dig in a box and dig out my dive watch given to me when I graduated Marine Corps Combat Dive School in Panama City Beach, FL in 1997. It is a Stocker and Yale P650 mil Spec H3. I was shocked to do some research and find out how rare and still valuable it is. It doesn’t work but needs a new battery.
My first watch ⌚ was a Seiko Speedmaster from the early 80s great video pizan 🤙🇮🇹 my first Swiss watch was a vintage Longines Wittnauer
Had one in titanium for a couple of months. More than 500 notes but I love it.
Great video. I often tell people that my Hamilton Khaki X-Patrol is the watch featured in the worst Die Hard movie in the franchise.
Also, irregardless isn't a word.
I’m gonna be sycophantic also and express my amazement at how professional your presentation has become! And what in the world odd you feed Hugo to get that big! Lol cheers TGV😅
Hamilton is an absolutely killer first Swiss watch. Although over $500, but Khaki Aviation Pilot Day Date Auto (AKA "Cooper") is a brilliant watch and highly accurate, gaining only 61 seconds total in the first 2 months of ownership. A friend picked up the Khaki King as his first mechanical watch, and enjoys it, along with some other watches he's since purchased. My preference would be for the black dial Khaki Field Auto with its versatility/every day wearability, but the hand-wound Khaki Field mechanical is a great low key option as well. My father was gifted a Hamilton for his high school graduation by my grandparents in the '60s, so I am glad to have a Hamilton in the collection now.
As an owner of 3 Hamilton watches, I must say, that I agree with you. I would say Tissot is a close 2nd. What’s your take for 2nd place?
A good friend of mine's Father was presented with a white gold Hamilton upon graduation from the US Navel Academy at Annapolis back in the 1940s still runs and looks brand new.
I love my 38mm khaki field watch. I picked mine up from AAFES for well below $500. I also have a khaki king but that doesn't get a lot of wear b/c my job is still 100% telework. Cheers!
As my local rival soccer team are Hamilton Accies I can’t wear this brand. First world horological problem right there. Great show as always, that Khaki King looks fantastic. 👍
The t-rex really livens up this already fantastic channel
Great Vid TGV. I love it when you talk about Hamiltons! I love my Hamilton Khaki Diver. I got it for $609.00, so outside the $500 range but still, I would not have gotten it had I not been able to get it for $600, instead of $795 retail. I've only had it for about 2 months. I wish it would have come with a rubber strap as well as the SS bracelet. Also, this is perhaps the only watch I will have on my wrist that is 40mm. I really do prefer a 43-44mm case on all my watches. At some point I'd like a Khaki Field on the bund strap. 😂😉
Another amazing production brother and congrats on the new acquisition 👏
Just so happen to be wearing my Khaki Field Mechanical white dial as this popped up in my feed