1970s Hamilton Automatic Super Compressor 600 (Ref. 64040-3)

The Super Compressor case was developed by Ervin Piquerez S.A. (EPSA) in the late 1950s with production lasting into the 1970s. The term "Super Compressor" comes from a Patented design that Ervin Piquerez S.A. (EPSA) created in which the case sealing method actually became more watertight with increased pressure as a result of increasing depth. The design is complex yet simple in that the deeper in-depth that the watch wen the more watertight the watch would become as a result. The increased pressure by design would allow the case-back to press against the O-ring gasket within the mid-case again increasing water resistance. Super compressors leverage two crowns, one in which operates the winding and setting of the watch and one that operates an inner rotating bezel ring which is also a unique design feature specific to super compressors that allowed for greater security of setting the inner timing bezel inside of the watch instead of externally whereas if the bezel was located externally it could be bumped out of position rendering an accurate measurement of elapsed time.

Brands that utilized the super compressor cases included Longines, Hamilton, Universal Genéve, and Enicar. The Super Compressor cases came in two sizes: 42mm, as seen in vintage Longines Skin Divers, and in 36mm, as seen watches like this Hamilton 600. 

The Hamilton Super Compressor 600 is eyecatching and the perfect example of a Super Compressor. The silver/white dial with its contrasting and reflective inner rotating bezel makes the watch eye-catching while on the wrist without drawing too much attention. The mid-century vibe and feel of this watch are very much apparent with the early Hamilton logo that is to us reminiscent of Eames-era design which can also be seen on the case back of the watch.

This Hamilton bridges the gap between sport diver and dress seamlessly and is also functional as the date complication located at the 3 o'clock position and inner rotating bezel will come in handy for keeping track of the date and for timing things such as parking meters and or decompression stops during the ascent of a deep dive!