Hamilton unveiled an exciting collection of bold watch designs at BaselWorld 2014 including retro designs with hunter-style metal covers, a racy 1970s rerelease and even a range-topping wristwatch that transforms into a precision aircraft instrument.
The limited edition Khaki Takeoff goes straight to the top of Hamilton’s price range at £2,390 RRP but offers an interesting proposition for any pilot. Included in the Takeoff’s presentation box is a standardised mounting plaque that can be attached to the instrument panel of any aircraft or helicopter. The bullhead chronograph watch head detaches with a twist from its wrist strap and can then be mounted on the plaque, instantly making it a useful mechanical aircraft instrument complete with countdown function. The Takeoff is limited to 1,999 pieces.
Hamilton has also reintroduced the Bagley, a model from 1939 that balances elegance with design substance. Starting from £420 RRP, the Bagley features a small seconds on the multi-layer dial and comes with the option of Ostrich strap or metal bracelet.
The Flatridge is inspired by futurist 1930s designs that, at the time, used metal covers to protect the scratch-prone glass used in watches. The 2014 versions use anti-reflective sapphire crystal to guard against scratches but still adopt Clous de Paris and sunray design stainless steel face covers that for the Gent model reveal the day and date on the dial below and on the Ladies, a cluster of seven diamonds. Both examples are limited to 999 pieces and cost from £995 RRP.
The Pan Europ family gets a 2014 update with a mechanical automatic H-30 movement with 80 hour power reserve and day/date display. Its 1970 stylings are enhanced with either striped textile or leather cut-out straps. The leather strap example will cost £840 RRP.
