Men’s 1950 Hamilton-Illinois Automatic Dress Watch

In 1928, Hamilton Watch Company of Lancaster, Pa., purchased the Illinois Watch Company for over $5 million.

After the purchase, Hamilton continued to operate the Illinois Watch Company factory under the Illinois name, shifting the focus from pocket watches to wrist watches. While somewhat late in recognizing the trend toward wristwatches hastened by the demands of WWI, Hamilton quickly recognized its miscalculation of a "pocket watch only" line and fully embraced the new and seemingly insatiable consumer demand for wristlets or “strap” watches. Hamilton allowed Illinois to function autonomously until WWII.

Postwar, Hamilton partnered with its sister company Illinois to produce a line of beefy, resilient wristwatches under the Hamilton-Illinois name. They were handsome pieces fitted with Swiss automatic movements, some with winding indicators.

We’re pleased to offer such an example of the union of the Hamilton and Illinois Watch Companies. This uncommon model is startlingly original, from its "Hamilton" marked dial to its solid stainless steel screw-back case in extraordinary polish. Fitted with an “Illinois” marked automatic movement and featuring an uncommon wind-indicator, it is a mesmeric statement piece, exuding all the masculine energy one would expect to find during the era.

Measuring a full 38mm by 33mm in diameter, this example is a perfect Town-and-Country piece; something guaranteed to bring admiring glances and earnest compliments. We've taken the liberty of cleaning, oiling and calibrating the watch so that it keeps time as intended. Also, we’ve fitted the piece with an equally handsome black shark strap and matching buckle.

Offered in a period blue velvet and white satin clamshell presentation case, this work of wrist art is that statement piece you’ve been seeking.