By Jovan Krstevski
I like Hamilton watches mainly for their price to quality ratio. Hamilton is now under the umbrella of the Swatch Group from being an American brand. The brand’s history is very interesting particularly the release of the 1968 Hamilton Chronograph B alongside the Hamilton Chronograph A which now serves as the inspiration for the new Hamilton Intra-Matic 68, vintage with a contemporary twist chronograph.
Looking at the main design, I can’t help but notice that Hamilton took good care preserving the elements of many 1960s and 1970s chronographs particularly the 1968 Chronograph B and the automatic movement with date of the Chrono-Matic versions. We see the same 42mm stainless steel case design which is very clean and sharply polished with the typical narrow bezel and classic pump pushers to boot. The pointy lugs are also vintage which for me are rather nice and cool. Throw in a sapphire crystal on the watch face with a screwed down crown and we have a 100m water resistant chronograph, lovely.
As for the dial of the new Hamilton Intra-Matic 68, the “reversed panda” layout stands out. This is a tribute to vintage chronographs although one notable change is the addition of a white tachymeter scale inside the periphery. If you happen to be familiar with some vintage Hamilton chronographs, the date is usually integrated at the 6 o’clock, this is perhaps to satisfy tradition but to me it is a pleasant design choice. Adding value is the curved design of the dial and hands which is typical of high end watches. The automotive appeal is undeniably strong specially with the chronographs at 9 and 3 o’clock. The white on black styling is superb on the new Hamilton Intra-Matic 68, I like it.
The Hamilton Intra-Matic 68 Chronograph is powered by the automatic Hamilton automatic H–31 calibre sporting 60 hours of power reserve. Being based on the Valjoux 7753 (with the 3–6–9 or 3–9 layout that normally comes with 48 hours), the movement is greatly improved with the addition of enhanced spiral for better chronometric results. This reliable movement superbly runs the bi-register chronograph with date, hours, minutes, and small second with ease.
Moreover, the Hamilton Intra-Matic 68 Chronograph comes with a vintage perforated leather strap. This reminds me of a classic automobile’s air intake grille which is great. Function-wise, I hope it adds comfort since breathability of any strap is always welcome plus what’s the use of being perforated if not for this, well this is just my two cents.
Being a limited edition with 1,968 pieces to be exact, the Hamilton Intra-Matic 68 Chronograph is a must have. Plus the reasonable price of Euro 1,995 is very appealing so I suggest you be on the lookout. It’s good to be reminded that this watch is based on the the 1968 Hamilton Chronograph B and the Hamilton Chronograph A which are well sought by very discerning vintage collectors. For more info, please visit hamiltonwatch.com
