Preliminary identification

Hamilton Art Deco Rectangular 'Tank' Style Wristwatch

Photo reference

1 uploaded photo

Overview

This is a classic American-made Hamilton wristwatch featuring a gold-filled rectangular case and a distinctive Art Deco dial with a sub-seconds register.

Story

During the 1930s, the wristwatch was finally overtaking the pocket watch as the standard for the modern gentleman, and Hamilton was the undisputed king of the American market.

Maker / Origin

Founded in 1892, Hamilton became a legend by solving the 'Great Train Wreck' problem with their ultra-accurate railroad watches.

Condition & Value

The dial shows significant 'patina' or spotting, which is expected for an 80-year-old timepiece and proves its age. There is visible wear to the gold-filled edges (brassing) and the crystal appears to have light scratching.

Full Research

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Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.

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Market Analysis

Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.

Value Drivers

▲ Strong maker attribution with credible period details
▲ Better-than-average condition for the category
▲ Broader demand rises when presentation and finish feel intact

Concerns

▼ Decorative-only demand limits the ceiling
▼ Surface wear or missing provenance can compress the range fast
▼ Regional sale lanes often underperform specialist venues

Best Venue

Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.

Comparable Sales

5 comps

Regional auction

· Jun 2024

Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.

$1,280

SOLD

Dealer archive

· Mar 2024

Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.

$1,450

SOLD

Marketplace sale

· Jan 2024

Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.

$980

SOLD

Estate platform

· Oct 2023

Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.

$1,150

SOLD

Auction result

· Aug 2023

Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.

$1,375

SOLD