Baselworld 2017: Hamilton Intra-Matic 68 Auto Chrono

When Hamilton in 1968 presented its “Chronograph A” with black subdials on a white dial, and its “Chronograph B” with two white subdials lying against a black background, creating a “reverse panda” face, the chronographs perfectly reflected the type of dial design that was very popular in the 1960s and 1970s. WQe are in the year 2017 now and I predict that the Hamilton Intra-Matic 68 Auto Chrono will today perhaps have more fans than ever before …

Keeping the 1960s-look as it was, this was a key request for the designers when they created the new Intra-Matic 68 Auto Chrono. 

1. The dial in particular stays true to the “reverse” panda face of the timepiece’s origins, and is circled by a white tachymeter scale. Black and white seems to be the overall theme of the watch, with the date on a dark background, a snowy white central chronograph seconds hand and black lacquered counter hands.

2. Vintage-feel pushers were placed on each side of the crown.

3. A domed-shape dial and curved hands are two other details.

4. The black calf leather strap is a cut-edge type, which uses the most traditional strap- production techniques, and is gently perforated for a 1960’s-style sporty touch.   

The polished stainless steel case now houses the automatic “H-31” movement (ETA) with a 60-hour power reserve. Additional parts that have been adapted to present taste include the 42mm case. The latter is bigger than its predecessor. And of course Super-LumiNova coating on the hour and minute hands for higher legibility.