Hamilton
1980s Hamilton Khaki Field Watch (Ref. 921980) "L.L. Bean"
Hamilton was founded in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, in 1882 and initially specialized in producing pocket watches. The brand boasts a long and impressive history of breakthroughs in design and technology, and is probably best known for its military associations and fantastic field watches.
Case in point, this double-signed Khaki model from the '80s, featuring the L.L. Bean name as the larger of the two on the dial. These Hamiltons were offered in the catalogue of the astute yet rugged Maine-based brand as a civilian version of the military spec wristwatch, which they were. The "Khaki" was the branded name for the commercial version of the same watches that saw action in military operations such as Korea and Vietnam. It's a highly legible, eminently usable, no frills piece that exudes military cool, and would be the perfect addition to any collection.
SPECS
| Stock # | HTNKLLB-2 | |
| Brand | Hamilton | |
| Style | Khaki | |
| Model | 921980 | |
| Serial | N/A | |
| Size | Men's | |
| Material | Stainless Steel | |
| Dial | Matte Black "L.L. Bean" | |
| Millimeters | 34 | |
| Strap | OD Green Nylon NATO Strap |
CASE & BRACELET
The unpolished case retains its factory bead-blasted finishing and remains in exceptional condition, showing no major signs of use. The bead-blasted smooth bezel is also in excellent condition and shows only minimal signs of use. The original acrylic crystal does show some wear and scratches, which can likely be polished out, if desired. The case retains its original Hamilton-signed bead-blasted crown. The case back retains all of its original markings. The watch comes supplied on an OD green nylon NATO strap.
DIAL & HANDS
The matte black dial is remarkably well-preserved, showing few signs of age. Both the tritium lume plots and hands have taken on a golden patina and remain in great condition, displaying no degradation under UV light inspection. The co-signed dial features the L.L. Bean logo under 12 o'clock, while the Hamilton name and logo reside lower down, just above 6 o'clock.
ACCESSORIES
None. The watch was recently serviced and is keeping time perfectly, backed by a 1-year warranty on accurate timekeeping.