On August 19th, Hamilton Watch, a brand that combines traditional American spirit with advanced Swiss movement technology, held a launch event in Hangzhou for its 2011 new collection. The event showcased two retro collections inspired by World War II classics: the Jazz Auto Chrono watches, which reinterprets the U.S. Navy deck watch, and the Khaki Field Auto Chrono, which is based on the British Royal Air Force watch. Both collections feature the new in-house H21/H31 automatic chronograph movements with a 60-hour power reserve. Accompanied by Hong Kong singer Andy Hui, Hamilton took guests on a journey through time from the landmark high-end watch store Shengshi Timepiece Hangzhou branch to the luxurious Huanglong Hotel, inviting numerous media and VIPs to witness the rebirth of classic watches.
The in-house movement revives the glory of old times. Charlie Chaplin's classic film "Modern Times" depicted the struggles of industrialization, resonating with Hamilton's brand philosophy that blends tradition and modernity. At the Hangzhou event, Chaplin's "appearance" initiated the Hamilton time portal with a classic jazz dance, leading guests through the brand's century-long development via a video presentation. Brand Vice President Ms. Song Jianhui delivered a speech, while special guest Andy Hui collaborated with professional models to showcase Hamilton's passion for innovation. During the climax, Andy Hui and Ms. Song illuminated the new Hamilton image advertisement, showcasing the brilliance of the new Hamilton watches powered by in-house movements, signaling the beginning of the "new core era."
In 2011, Hamilton ignited a retro trend themed around the "Modern Era," revisiting the brand's history marked by countless "firsts." Modern design and cutting-edge technology awaken the charm of the past, presenting new extensions of milestone works. Among these, the in-house movements H21 and H31 stand out as shining stars.
Based on the classic 7750 and 7753 movements, the new Hamilton in-house H21/H31 movements embody the crossover beauty of historical brilliance and technological fashion. The extended mainspring increases power reserve to 60 hours, recalling the early 20th century when Hamilton was renowned for its reliable movements. A unique reverse hairspring design enhances timekeeping stability, reflecting the brand's commitment to precision and modern craftsmanship. The personalized H-shaped bridge adds a touch of luxury and individual style. Powered by this core, the 2011 Hamilton collection displays precise timing with effortless elegance.
The Hangzhou event sparked a wave of watch fashion across the city, extending to the iconic Shengshi Timepiece Hangzhou branch. Display boards marking milestone years in Hamilton's history captured the attention of guests. The new Jazz Auto Chrono and Khaki Field Auto Chrono collections attracted many visitors with their distinct designs and exquisite craftsmanship. Andy Hui and Ms. Song Jianhui unveiled the mystery of the in-house movements and new watches in a specially designed Hamilton box. Andy also presented personally signed boxes to VIP customers, continuing the legacy of the classic brand.
Hamilton introduced two retro collections in Hangzhou, each telling a story. The Jazz Auto Chrono series embodies the declaration "Without liberty, life is a misery," celebrating freedom. Featuring blue steel hands, a black crocodile-patterned strap, and a dial reminiscent of old maritime logs, it captures the spirit of the free-sailing era. Equipped with the H21 in-house movement and a 100-meter water resistance, it meets the needs of modern adventurers. Available in vintage parchment gray or modern pure black, the limited edition of 1892 pieces commemorates the birth year of Hamilton watches, symbolizing prestige and exclusivity. The fusion of past and future, personality and taste, reinterprets the precision of wartime Hamilton timepieces and encapsulates the brand's pursuit of freedom.
The Khaki Field Auto Chrono series, inspired by WWII British Royal Air Force watches, inherits the durability and robustness of military watches. It features classic aviation elements like coin edges, anti-magnetic soft iron, and snake-eye hands combined with the H31 in-house automatic movement, showcasing the regal demeanor of the WWII era. Additionally, the Conservation International Automatic Chrono watch, presented by Hamilton in collaboration with Harrison Ford and Conservation International, highlights environmental awareness with signatures and eco-icons on the back cover.
The event included media check-ins, guest photo sessions for raffles, performances, dinner menus, speeches, jazz dances, and more. Two lucky winners were required to drink an entire glass of red wine before receiving their Hamilton watch prizes.
The event concluded with various photos of the important watches, signifying the end of the article. Thank you!