Hamilton Watches

Hamilton watches are related to a company that was long a leader in watch making history. Originated in Lancaster, PA (USA) in 1892, the Hamilton Watch Company had many firsts among its accomplishments over the years to follow.

Known as the "Railroad Timekeeper of America," this company served up extremely accurate timepieces to the railroad industry that relied on being timely. Their watches were rugged, precision pocket watches respected by all. Hamilton watches kept pace with innovations into the next century. They introduced the first wrist watch in 1917 when World War I soldiers desired to have a smaller and more convenient size timepiece to carry.

In the midst of World War II, Hamilton again came to serve the military need of the US Armed Forces with an accurate chronometer to use for navigation at sea. The company introduced the Elinvar (Elasticity Invariable) hairspring and patented it for use in 1931. This mechanism resisted effects of temperature and was used in all movements from that point forward.

In January of 1957, Hamilton developed the world's first electric wristwatch. Using a tiny battery eliminated the use of a mainspring and allowed watches to function for twenty years on a small amount of current. Technical developments by Hamilton were matched by their dedication to styling. Hamilton watches today are among some of the most collectible timepieces.

The company produced watches in American until 1969. The company was bought out by a Swiss watch conglomerate and is sold under their fashionable Swatch Group.

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