Hamilton – Tank Sertie 14kt. Gold Special Order 1940`s Watch – Diamond Soirée Dial – Cal. 980

This vintage Hamilton hooded-lugs diamond-dial tank wristwatch is part of a specific and collectible segment of American horology during the mid-20th century, when Hamilton Watch Company operated as a true U.S.-based manufacture. Renowned for producing in-house movements and manufacturing timepieces for both civilian and military markets, Hamilton was among the foremost American watchmakers of the era. This tank-shaped case and diamond-set dial is part of a subset of models produced as custom orders through retail jewellers, often aimed at a more exclusive clientele. These watches were not typically cased by Hamilton itself, a detail reflected in the unsigned 14kt solid gold case. The case, measures 21.2mm in width (excluding crown) and 41.5mm in length including the hooded lugs, is well-constructed and has a tight-fitting snap-on back, aligned by twin locating pins at the 12 o’clock side.

It holds the movement securely with a precise internal fit. The plaxy glass is in an excellent condition. The silvered dial is set with old-cut natural diamonds in a handmade Art Deco-style white gold layout. The numerals at 12, 3, and 9 are sculpted in white gold and individually set with diamonds, while the remaining hour markers are round diamond settings. The subsidiary seconds dial at 6 o’clock is well-proportioned and crisply printed. The dial is in a good condition, it shows only some light traces of time. Powering the watch is the Hamilton Caliber 980, a hand-wound movement developed in-house in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Introduced in the 1930s, the 980 was a quality caliber used in Hamilton’s fine dress watches, and it has remained in production till 1951.

Based on the movement serial number, this watch can be dated to the mid 1940`s The watch is fitted with a new lizard strap and has been fully serviced in-house. It is delivered in good working condition, with a six-month mechanical guarantee and certificate of originality. Worldwide shipping is available. Inquiries are welcome.