Hamilton Khaki Navy BeLOWZERO: Tenet’s Favourite Understated Diver
Fans and patrons of the Hamilton brand are surely familiar with how many of its watches, particularly from the Khaki Navy collection, have been featured in iconic films. Indeed, Hamilton has frequently been in the limelight of the silver screen, with many fans proclaiming it the favourite watch brand of filmmakers. Popular examples of Hamilton watches in movies include the Hamilton Khaki Aviation Pilot Day-Date Watch and the Hamilton Khaki Field Murph Auto, both of which showed up in the critically-acclaimed film Interstellar, and the limited-edition Hamilton Ventura Skeleton Auto, which appeared on Tony Stark’s wrist in Spiderman: Homecoming.
Another iconic Hamilton movie watch is the Hamilton Khaki Navy BeLOWZERO. This watch was famously toted by Matt Damon’s character in The Martian (2015). One fascinating thing about the Khaki Navy BeLOWZERO is that it has the distinction of being the only Hamilton watch to appear in two different Oscar-winning films. After Hamilton collaborated with Christopher Nolan in the 2014 film Interstellar, the writer-director approached Hamilton to develop a new, unique, and versatile watch for him. This led to the creation of a new, iconic model of the Hamilton Khaki Navy BeLOWZERO, which famously featured in Nolan’s latest hit, Tenet (2020).
Given the stealthy, distinctive style of the Hamilton Khaki Navy BeLOWZERO, it is no surprise why both models of this watch quickly became favourites, both on-screen and off-screen. For the purpose of this article, we will be taking an in-depth look at the Tenet Hamilton Khaki Navy BeLOWZERO, which is the more recent of the two models. We will also briefly go through the similarities and differences between both BeLOWZERO timekeepers. So, without further ado, let us take a closer look at the Tenet watch and everything it has to offer.
First Impressions
Boasting a striking all-black colourway, the Hamilton Khaki Navy BeLOWZERO is an instant stunner. From its black PVD-coated case and black rubber strap down to its sleek black dial, the Hamilton Tenet watch simply exudes ruggedness in every way.
Designed to withstand all sorts of outdoor conditions, this robust watch is an ideal timekeeper for those who enjoy outdoorsy adventures. Its combination of a high-grade performance with an understated yet distinctive style makes it no surprise why this Hamilton Tenet watch is considered a signature piece. Whether you are looking for a reliable outdoor watch, or if you are a Tenet fan looking to get your hands on some exclusive merchandise, the Hamilton Khaki Navy BeLOWZERO should definitely be on your radar.
Anatomy of the Hamilton Khaki Navy BeLOWZERO
Case, Bezel, Caseback, and Crown
Right off the bat, the most eye-catching thing about the Hamilton Khaki Navy BeLOWZERO is its sleek all-black colourway. This watch is presented in a 46mm case made out of titanium. Its relatively big 46mm diameter makes this watch best suited for those with average-to-larger-sized wrists. In addition, this robust case also has four protruding ledges that each bear a single, thick black screw. These ledges make the Hamilton Khaki Navy BeLOWZERO look larger than it actually is, adding to the watch’s masculine, rugged aesthetic.
That being said, the Hamilton Khaki Navy BeLOWZERO’s use of titanium actually gives it a fairly lightweight build, especially since titanium is nearly 50% lighter than stainless steel. As such, the Hamilton Khaki Navy BeLOWZERO is fairly easy to tote around all day, in spite of its size. In addition, the case has also been coated in a layer of physical vapour deposition (PVD), which gives it its sleek black tone while also reinforcing its resistance to scratches.
Fixed on top of the case is a stout unidirectional rotating bezel, also made out of black PVD-coated titanium. In keeping with the Hamilton Khaki Navy BeLOWZERO’s understated style, this elapsed time scale bezel bears small dot markers in five-minute intervals and subtle black minute indices for the first 15 minutes. This bezel also has sharp teeth edges, which provide wearers with a better grip so they can turn the bezel more easily.
Flipping the Hamilton Khaki Navy BeLOWZERO around, the back of this watch is sealed shut with a solid titanium caseback, also covered in black PVD. This caseback bears a pattern of stark horizontal lines, along with a detailed engraving of a diving bell. You can also find some of the watch’s details imprinted on the caseback.
Finally, on the right side of the watch is a sizeable crown. This screwed-down crown is carefully protected by thick crown guards and is engraved with the brand’s signature ‘H’ logo. Like the rest of the watch, the crown and crown guards all come in a stealthy black tone.
Dial
As mentioned, the Hamilton Khaki Navy BeLOWZERO comes in a cool all-black aesthetic, and that includes its striking black watch face. As befitting a dive watch, this black dial comes in a very simple and straightforward layout that prioritises legibility. It comprises pronounced grey-tone Arabic numeral markers, grey sword hands that sweep across the dial, and a single black seconds hand with a vivid blue arrowheaded tip. This singular blue accent gives the watch face more of an edge by adding a pop of vibrancy to it, while also serving as a tribute to a key colour in the Tenet movie.
In order to optimise visibility, the hands and indices of this watch are all filled with grey Super-LumiNova, which ensures readability even in poor lighting conditions. These elements will light up bright green when in the dark, so you can still easily read this watch’s face.
In addition, the Hamilton Khaki Navy BeLOWZERO’s dial is protected by a layer of scratch-resistant sapphire crystal. This crystal has been treated with anti-reflective coatings, providing wearers with a clear view of the dial that is not hindered by any light glares.
Movement
Driving this blacked-out watch is a powerful in-house H-10 Calibre. Based on the ETA C07.111, this is an automatic movement that beats at a frequency of 21,600 vibrations per hour (3Hz). Held together by 25 jewels, this movement boasts an outstanding 80-hour power supply.
Strap
Finishing off the Hamilton Khaki Navy BeLOWZERO’s dark exterior is a comfortable black rubber strap, which blends in perfectly with the case and the dial. The brand’s name is carefully engraved on the flat surface near the bottom lugs of the watch, marking this as a uniquely Hamilton timepiece. Measuring a standard 22m in width, this strap is also equipped with an H-buckle which keeps the watch securely fastened to your wrist.
Water Resistance
In order to optimise its resistance to underwater pressures, the Hamilton Khaki Navy BeLOWZERO also comes with a helium escape valve, which can be seen on the left side of the case. This helium escape valve safely releases helium particles from the case, relieving the internal pressure that builds up inside the watch and ensuring that it does not damage the watch’s inner mechanisms. This affords the watch greater durability, allowing it to withstand stronger and deeper water pressures.
Thanks to this, the Hamilton Khaki Navy BeLOWZERO has an outstanding depth rating of 1000 metres, so it can traverse the deepest ocean waters.
Price
The 2020 Hamilton Khaki Navy BeLOWZERO, which was utilised in Tenet, is a limited edition model with only 888 pieces available. With its exclusive status, striking design, and top-notch dive features, the Khaki Navy BeLOWZERO’s price tag of $2,095 USD makes it a real steal. You will surely get your money’s worth with this timepiece.
Hamilton Khaki Navy BeLOWZERO: The Martian Vs Tenet
As mentioned before, there are two different models of the Hamilton Khaki Navy BeLOWZERO which have been featured in films. Firstly, the standard version, which appeared in Matt Damon’s The Martian, and a limited edition model which was specially created for Christopher Nolan’s latest film, Tenet. Both these models are actually quite similar: they both have almost identical all-black styles and are equipped with helium escape valves that give them impressive depth ratings of 1000m.
The only two visible contrasts between the two different versions of the Khaki Navy BeLOWZERO is that, firstly, the Tenet watch has a seconds hand with a blue tip, while the model that appears in The Martian showcases a black-tipped seconds hand, in keeping with the rest of the watch. Furthermore, The Martian‘s Khaki Navy BeLOWZERO model also comes with a rectangular date window, outlined in black, at 3 o’clock. Tenet’s Khaki Navy BeLOWZERO, on the other hand, does away with the date complication entirely.
Alternatives to the Hamilton Khaki Navy BeLOWZERO
1. Oris ProDiver Ref. 01 748 7748 7154-07 4 26 74TEB
One excellent alternative to the Hamilton Khaki Navy BeLOWZERO is the powerful Oris ProDiver Ref. 01 748 7748 7154-07 4 26 74TEB. Like the Hamilton Khaki Navy BeLOWZERO, this watch is presented in a titanium case, albeit in a silver tone instead. Measuring 49mm in diameter, this titanium case is paired with chunky lugs, a black elapsed time scale bezel made of ceramic, and a comfortable black rubber strap. A thick layer of ridged rubber is also used to surround the bezel, bolstering its resistance to scratches and impacts and rendering it easier to grip and turn.
The dial of this watch also comes in a lovely black hue, complementing the strap and bezel. It bears a pattern of waves, reminiscent of the ocean, which is very fitting since this is a dive watch. This dial is also furnished with luminous silver hour indices, thick sword hands, a date complication at 3 o’clock, a small seconds sub-dial, and a handy second timezone with a GMT hand. This GMT hand has a vivid yellow arrowheaded tip, which helps add a burst of colour to this otherwise monochrome watch face.
Powering this Oris ProDiver watch is a powerful in-house Calibre 748 movement. Held together by 28 jewels, this automatic movement beats at 28,800 vibrations per hour (4Hz) and has a solid 38-hour power supply. In addition, this dive watch is also equipped with a helium escape valve, which gives it an excellent 1000-metre depth rating, much like the Hamilton Khaki Navy BeLOWZERO.
This Oris dive watch is priced at around $2,639 USD.
2. Omega Seamaster PloProf Ref. 224.30.55.21.01.001
Next up, we have the Omega Seamaster PloProf Ref. 224.30.55.21.01.001, which is a handsome, professional dive watch fitted with top-notch features. This is an exceptionally robust watch, with a bold and unique build that adds to its appeal. This watch is housed in a hefty 55mm stainless steel case and stainless steel mesh bracelet, making it ideal for those with bigger wrists or who enjoy wearing chunky timepieces. It even has an oversized crown and a thick crown guard that completely surrounds the top and bottom of the crown, making it look even bigger than it actually is.
Contrasting against this Omega watch’s all-silver exterior is a black elapsed time scale bezel and a matching black dial. This dial has a very straightforward layout, consisting of luminous rectangular hour indices, broad sword hands, and a compact date aperture between 4 and 5 o’clock. The minute hand is outlined in vibrant orange, which goes well with the orange helium escape valve on the right side of the case. These orange accents serve to give this watch a more quirky, fun edge.
Finally, this Omega Seamaster piece is equipped with the brand’s own Calibre 8500. This self-winding movement is held together by 39 jewels and possesses an extended 60-hour power reserve. With its helium escape valve, it also has an incredible depth rating of 1,200 metres, which is even greater than that of the Hamilton Khaki Navy BeLOWZERO. With this watch, you know you have nothing to fear from the ocean depths.
As a top-tier dive watch, the Omega Seamaster PloProf Ref. 224.30.55.21.01.001 sells at around $7,359 USD.
3. Seiko Prospex Ref. SLA042J1
Last but certainly not least, the Seiko Prospex Ref. SLA042J1 is one of the best diving watches you can find in Seiko’s extensive catalogue. Better known as the Seiko Tuna, this fine diver watch utilises a stout 52.4mm stainless steel case, which is famously shaped like a can of tuna. The case comes in a gorgeous rose gold tone, which stands out incredibly well against the black elapsed time scale bezel, ridged black silicone strap, and the layer of black rubber that completely surrounds the top of the case, keeping it safe from any external damage.
The dial of this Seiko Prospex watch also has a jet-black finish and is adorned with sizeable hour indices in geometric shapes, a small date display at 3 o’clock, and huge arrowhead hands. The hands and indices of this watch are coated in lume, allowing for optimal legibility in the dark.
Underneath this simple watch face, you can find a powerful in-house Calibre 8L35. This automatic movement shows off a 50-hour power supply and a solid accuracy rate of +15/-10 seconds per day. It also possesses a depth rating of 1000 metres, making this watch suitable for all sorts of watersports activities.
If you are looking for another stylish and reliable diving watch, this $3,629 USD Seiko Tuna is certainly a worthy investment.
Final Thoughts
Hamilton has never failed in crafting unique, stylish, and iconic timepieces that draw the eye both on and off-screen. The Hamilton Khaki Navy BeLOWZERO, used in the recent 2020 film Tenet, is only the brand’s latest timekeeper in the limelight. This is a bold and rugged diver that is packed to the brim with impressive features. Indeed, if you are looking for a robust and stylish dive watch that you can count on for all sorts of deepsea adventures, then the Hamilton Khaki Navy BeLOWZERO is a great option.
Photos are credited to Hamilton’s official website unless otherwise stated.
Featured image courtesy of Hamilton’s official website
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