Hamilton is a brand I’ve long admired from a distance, but this new trio of watches has finally pulled me in. The collection, called the American Classic Chronograph H, feels like a confident nod to the racing-inspired chronographs of the 1960s and 1970s, and it’s easily my favourite watch release of the year so far.
(Image credit: Hamilton)
The three models share the same 40mm stainless steel case, complete with bold chronograph pushers and an unguarded crown. Each watch features a sapphire crystal over the dial and is powered by Hamilton’s H-51 automatic chronograph movement, which offers a healthy 60-hour power reserve.
All three watches are water-resistant to 100 metres and feature a tachymeter scale around the outer edge of the dial. Used alongside the chronograph, the scale allows the wearer to calculate average speed over a known distance, whether that’s a race car completing a lap or a quarter-mile sprint.
(Image credit: Hamilton)
The motorsport influence continues with the perforated calf leather strap, and the blue-dial version in particular stands out. Its pale tan strap pairs beautifully with the dial, while the orange central seconds hand and sub-dial hands add a burst of colour. The combination clearly references classic Gulf racing liveries, yet it never overwhelms the overall design.
Alongside the blue model, Hamilton also offers the Chronograph H with brown or green dials, each matched with a complementary leather strap. All three versions also come with a steel mesh bracelet, bringing a subtle modern edge to the vintage-inspired look.
It’s a genuinely lovely watch, and one I’m seriously tempted to add to my own collection. The blue dial, especially, looks superb against the orange accents, tan leather strap and mesh bracelet.
Pricing only strengthens the appeal. At £1,980, the American Classic Chronograph H feels like excellent value, particularly when you factor in the two straps and the extended power reserve.
