Hamilton Livingstone 'Art Deco'

Overall Condition: Very good condition overall. Case shows light signs of wear for age. Dial and matching handset show even patina.

The late 19th and early 20th centuries were without question the golden age of American watchmaking. The implementation of mass production and interchangeable parts assured American supremacy. Brands such as Gruen, Elgin, and Hamilton vied against the Swiss to dominate the watch industry — the latter, in particular, was at the top of its game.

Specifically, the development of railroad chronometers gave Hamilton a reputation for accuracy and dependability in an age where these qualities were vital in a watch.
But the brand's production did not rest on railroad chronometers alone: throughout the 1920s and 1930s and the Second World War, the Lancaster, PA-based brand released a dizzying array of designs.

In the 1920s, Hamilton began to deviate from the typical round cases that predominated in the early years of wristwatch production. The company experimented with a variety of shapes, from the square or rectangular “tank” shapes popularized by Cartier to bold asymmetrical designs that subtly foreshadow the Victor, one of the world’s first electric wristwatches.

This particular Hamilton is an excellent representation of that shift. Featuring a 14K gold case with a stepped case characteristic of the 1930s when this watch was made, this piece is outfitted with a classic faceted-index dial, subsidiary second register, and manually-wound Cal. 401 movement within. This Hamilton "Livingstone" is extremely rare in precious metal--- especially in working condition. Plus, it retailed for 70 dollars when it was first produced!

If you love vintage mid-century design, this watch is an incredible tribute to a different era of American watchmaking excellence!