Unveiling a vibrant and colourful reinterpretation of its maxi-sized Chrono-Matic 50. Drawing inspiration from the complex 1970s Chrono-Matic GMT Count-Down, this limited edition marvel celebrates Hamilton’s storied heritage with a contemporary twist. With only 150 pieces available globally, Hamilton fans and collectors alike are in for a true treat.
The history of Hamilton is as dynamic as its designs. In 1966, Hamilton acquired the Swiss manufacture Buren and soon after closed its American operations. During the Buren years, Hamilton played a key role in Project 99 – a collaborative effort with Heuer, Breitling, and movement specialist Dubois-Depraz – to develop an automatic chronograph movement. While Zenith clinched the race in January 1969 with its El Primero calibre, Hamilton and its partners proudly launched the Chrono-Matic/Calibre 11 in March of the same year. Notably, the Chrono-Matic calibre featured an unconventional pusher layout: the pushers were placed on the left side of the case, opposite the crown.
The Chrono-Matic GMT Count-Down – also known as the Chrono-Matic E – built on this legacy by combining a chronograph with a GMT function. Although the new Chrono-Matic 50 has done away with the GMT complication, it preserves the innovative count-down feature and the unmistakable spirit of the 1970s sports watch, much like the celebrated black non-limited edition of 2019.
True to its heritage, the Chrono-Matic 50 retains the helmet-shaped case that has become its signature. This robust piece of hardware boasts a stainless steel case with a 48.5 mm diameter, a length of 51.1 mm, and an impressive thickness of 16.05 mm. The design is as groovy as it is functional: the helmet-shaped case not only provides striking aesthetics but also shields the pushers and crowns from accidental knocks. The closed caseback further guarantees a 100 m water resistance.
Every detail of the case is meticulously crafted. The radially brushed finish and recessed areas perfectly accommodate the distinctive orange pushers (flanking the crown on the right) and the black pusher with the crown on the left. Modernisation sees the H-31 chronograph movement repositioning the crown and pushers to the right side, while the remaining black pusher on the left now serves as a quick date corrector. An additional crown is dedicated to the countdown bezel.
The Chrono-Matic 50 dazzles with an eye-popping 1970s colour scheme. Its reverse panda dial features a blue background enriched by lively orange accents and white sub-dials. A blue tachymeter scale graces the sloping flange, leading to a blue and white rotating countdown bezel – elegantly activated by the crown on the left. A lighter blue precision minutes/seconds track flows into a darker blue dial, where two sub-dials display the small seconds at 9 o’clock and the 30-minute elapsed times at 3 o’clock.
Polished hour markers, along with the hour and minute hands, are filled with luminescent material, ensuring high visibility in low light. The central seconds hand – rendered in a vibrant orange to match the sub-dials and countdown numerals – completes the dynamic display. A round date window at 6 o’clock provides an additional practical function.
Powering this exceptional timepiece is the automatic calibre H-31, which draws on the reliable architecture of the Valjoux 7753. With an extended power reserve of 60 hours, the Chrono-Matic 50 delivers both performance and reliability, making it a worthy companion for enthusiasts and professionals alike.
Complementing the striking dial is a blue rally-style leather strap. Designed with perforations that reveal a hidden orange lining, the strap not only ties the look together but also offers exceptional comfort and style. This harmonious blend of design and function makes the limited edition Chrono-Matic 50 a must-have for Hamilton aficionados.
With its bold design, innovative features, and a nod to Hamilton’s illustrious past, the limited edition Chrono-Matic 50 is more than just a watch – it’s a statement. Secure your piece of horological history today and join the elite group of collectors who appreciate the perfect blend of tradition and modernity.