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In the mid-20th century, no watchmaker captured the American spirit quite like Hamilton. Based in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, they were the standard-bearer for domestic horology, producing movements that rivaled the best from Switzerland in terms of finish and accuracy. The “Cedric” model is a quintessential example of this golden era, offering a refined, rectangular “tank” silhouette that exudes the elegance of post-war America. It represents a time when a watch was not just a tool but a piece of jewelry, often gifted to mark significant milestones in a person’s life and career.
The engine powering this timepiece is the Hamilton Caliber 982, a 19-jewel manual wind movement that is widely respected by collectors for its durability and beautiful damaskeening decoration. Unlike mass-market movements, the 982 was a high-grade caliber often reserved for Hamilton’s better gold-filled and solid gold models. The case design of the Cedric is subtle yet distinct, featuring flexible, stepped lugs that add a bit of architectural flair to the standard rectangular form, stamped clearly with the model name inside the caseback.
This specific example is a fascinating piece of industrial history. The caseback is hand-engraved with “A. Yarroll, Fieldcrest Mills, ’25’,” indicating it was likely awarded for a quarter-century of service at the famous American textile manufacturer. The dial features applied 18K gold numerals which remain bright and legible, but the surface itself has developed a heavy, uniform spotting or “stardust” patina that testifies to its age and journey. The 14K gold-filled case shows wear consistent with a lifetime of use, yet retains its structural integrity and warm glow.
We find the heavy patina on this dial to be charming rather than detracting, as it speaks to the honesty of the watch. It is paired with a black leather strap that mimics the exotic skins popular in the period, complete with a gold-tone buckle that matches the case. For the collector who values American history and the story behind the object, this Hamilton Cedric is a wonderful, wearable artifact.
