Hamilton occupies a fascinating and, in our opinion, hugely important space in the watch world. It’s a brand with a soul forged in Lancaster, Pennsylvania—a true giant of American industrial watchmaking, but with the beating heart of a modern, sophisticated Swiss manufacturer. What we have here in the Spirit of Liberty is a perfect embodiment of that powerful duality: a watch that is both historically thoughtful and technically brilliant.
The “Spirit of Liberty” collection is a direct nod to the deepest layers of the brand’s heritage, paying homage to Andrew Hamilton, a famed 18th-century lawyer and champion of free speech for whom the original watch company was named. This isn’t just a cool name; it’s a connection to foundational American ideals, giving the watch a narrative weight that far exceeds its price point. But this is no mere history lesson. Inside this watch beats Hamilton’s powerhouse H-10 automatic caliber, a thoroughly modern movement boasting a fantastic 80-hour power reserve. That’s enough autonomy to take it off Friday and find it still ticking on Monday morning—a truly premium feature.
This particular example is a stunning showcase of contemporary watch design. The 42mm stainless steel case is confident and beautifully finished, flowing seamlessly into an intricate multi-link bracelet. But the dial is the real star. It’s a deep, rich black with a subtle sunburst texture that gives it incredible life as it plays with the light. The applied, faceted indices are crisp and legible, but it’s the stylized leaf-style handset that gives the watch its truly unique and elegant character. Add in the perfectly symmetrical date window at 6 o’clock, and you have a masterclass in balanced, thoughtful design.
As a pre-owned piece, this watch presents in fantastic condition, showing only the lightest signs of careful wear. It’s a superb opportunity to acquire a truly excellent modern timepiece at a significant value. The sapphire crystal is flawless, and the case and bracelet retain their sharp factory finishing.