All You Need to Know About the Classy Hamilton Intra-Matic

Almost everybody loves vintage watches. However, with how rare and expensive they can be, not everyone can get their hands on a genuine retro timepiece. In that sense, having a vintage-inspired wristwatch would actually be much easier and more affordable to obtain. It is true that brands that offer these classic-looking models tend to sell them at higher price ranges. However, if your budget is not cut out for these expensive models, fret not, for we still have one excellent option for you to consider. 

If you want to purchase a nice, Swiss-made vintage-inspired watch, but do not have the funds for brands like Longines or Oris, then you should check out Hamilton. This Swiss-American watchmaker is known for its stylish and well-made timepieces, which it sells at very attainable price points. For vintage-inspired wristwatches, in particular, let us have a look at the gorgeous models that make up the Hamilton Intra-Matic series.

Introducing the Hamilton Intra-Matic

The Hamilton Intra-Matic is a line of retro-style watches belonging to the Hamilton American Classic collection. These models draw inspiration from vintage Hamilton watches dating back to the 1960s. Hamilton introduced its first modern Intra-Matic watches at the Baselworld 2012. Available in either a silver-tone or a yellow gold PVD-coated stainless steel case, these timepieces featured monochrome silver dials designed with minimalistic, vintage aesthetics. Although their builds and looks were impressive, the Hamilton Intra-Matic 2012 models are sold at just $845 USD to $945 USD. 

With the possibility of being able to attain retro-looking timepieces without the hassle of actually getting a genuine vintage watch, the Hamilton Intra-Matic quickly drew the attention of countless enthusiasts and collectors. Since then, the selection has only continued to grow in size and popularity. Today, the Hamilton Intra-Matic consists of multiple attractive models sporting different colourways and the same old-school style. 

Best Hamilton Intra-Matic Watches

As stated, the Hamilton Intra-Matic comprises numerous watches with classic dials in different colour schemes. Each timepiece is made from sturdy stainless steel and is either a standard or chronograph model. Even with the sporty looks of the chronograph variant, both versions of the Hamilton Intra-Matic are excellent dress watch choices. Unsure which model to get? Sit back as we check out some of the best timepieces from the Hamilton Intra-Matic.

1. Hamilton Intra-Matic Auto Chrono Ref. H38416711

The panda dial is arguably one of the most sought-after dial designs in watches. Made famous by Paul Newman’s Rolex Cosmograph Daytona, its charm is unlike any other. Constructing a panda dial is not as simple as playing around with black and white colours, either, hence why some panda dials look better than others. As with any timepiece, it all boils down to the watchmaker’s skill and expertise. For the first watch on this list, let us have a look at the most recognisable modern Intra-Matic timepiece, the panda-dial Hamilton Intra-Matic Ref. H38416711.

Inspired by the 1968 Hamilton Chrono-Matic and Chronograph B, this Hamilton Intra-Matic watch comes in a polished 40mm stainless steel case with slim, pointed lugs, a large crown, and extended pushers. Its front is topped by a flat layer of scratch-resistant sapphire glass, while its rear is covered by a solid steel caseback. To prevent glares and visual distortions, Hamilton has also treated the crystal with an anti-reflective coating. A classic black calf leather strap completes the watch’s exclusive, appealing retro look. Although this model is not designed as a dive watch, it still has a substantial water resistance rating of 100m.

The dial of this Hamilton Intra-Matic watch boasts a vintage white finish and is adorned with thinly applied hour indices, slender pencil watch hands, and an outlined date window at 6 o’clock. At 3 and 9 o’clock, you can find two black sub-dials that nicely contrast against the white background while also completing the dial’s iconic panda look. On the rim of the dial, you can find a handy inner tachymeter scale in black, with white markings. When viewed together with its case, the Hamilton Intra-Matic Auto Chrono is truly a spectacle to behold.

Running this timepiece is the brand’s in-house Hamilton Calibre H-31. This is an automatic chronograph movement based on the ETA/Valjoux 7753. It comes with an extended 60-hour power reserve. 

You can get your hands on the Hamilton Intra-Matic Auto Chrono for around $1,725 USD. This is one of the more expensive models in the Hamilton Intra-Matic series.

2. Hamilton Intra-Matic Auto Chrono Ref. H38416541

It is always convenient to have more choices. Most of the Hamilton Intra-Matic chronograph models are, more or less, structured the same way. But when paired with different colour schemes, each model stands out as unique and beautiful. If you are not into the panda-dial Hamilton Intra-Matic, or you prefer something with a sportier aesthetic, take a look at the Hamilton Intra-Matic Auto Chrono Ref. H38416541.

This handsome model uses a 40mm stainless steel case accompanied by a supple calf leather strap in brown. Hamilton processes the strap of this watch differently compared to other brands, allowing it to retain a more natural look. Like the panda-dial Hamilton Intra-Matic, this watch shows off polished sides, slender lugs, long pushers, and an oversized crown. The dial of this watch is protected by a layer of sapphire crystal treated with an anti-reflective coating, while its rear is sealed shut by a solid steel caseback. It also has a 100m depth rating. However, it should be noted that this watch’s crown is not a screw-down variant, so it is not as secure. 

The dial of this watch showcases a matte blue surface decorated with applied silver hour indices and long, luminous pencil hands, along with a date aperture outlined in white at 6 o’clock. It also has two sub-dials in white: one for the 30-minute counter and another for the 60-minute counter. Surrounded by an inner tachymeter scale in white with black indicators, this watch face exudes a sporty yet classic vibe. Ticking inside this watch is the Hamilton Calibre H-31, complete with its twenty-seven jewels and 60-hour power reserve.

This timepiece sells at an estimated price of $1,590 USD.

3. Hamilton Intra-Matic Auto Ref. H38455751

So far, we have only gone through some of the more popular and, consequently, more expensive variants of the Hamilton Intra-Matic. Though they are extremely lovely pieces, their price tags are not exactly accessible for everyone. As such, for those on a budget, the aforementioned two models may not be the ideal timepieces.

As we mentioned at the start of this article, Hamilton first started this modern series with models that sold for between $845 USD to $945 USD. Thankfully, Hamilton still produces these cheaper Intra-Matic options, giving an opportunity to those who do not want to spend too much on a classic wristwatch. If you want a charming vintage-style watch that will not put much of a dent in your savings, have a go at the Hamilton Intra-Matic Auto Ref. H38455751. 

This Hamilton Intra-Matic Auto piece utilises a perfectly round, slender 38mm stainless steel case, with polished sides, pointed lugs, and an unguarded mid-sized crown at 6 o’clock. The lack of the bezel benefits this timepiece, as it places the emphasis squarely on the large dial, allowing wearers to view it in its entirety. Fitted on the rear is a transparent caseback, through which wearers can admire the watch’s movement as it works. This Intra-Matic timepiece is water-resistant up to depths of 50m and comes with a sturdy goat leather strap in black.

Compared to the Hamilton Intra-Matic Auto Chrono models, the dial of this watch is much more elegant. It does not have the busyness of a chronograph dial, but instead shows off a sleek, uncluttered surface that is much more refined and classy. This watch displays a metallic silver dial with simple black stick indices and hands, along with a date complication, outlined in black, at 6 o’clock. Beating underneath this lustrous dial is an automatic ETA 2892-A2 movement. This movement is the base model for other calibres such as the Tag Heuer Calibre 7 and the Hublot Calibre HUB1143. Held together by 21 jewels, it has a solid 42-hour power reserve. 

As one of the more affordable Hamilton Intra-Matic watches, you can purchase this watch for approximately $740 USD.

4. Hamilton Intra-Matic Auto Ref. H38425120

As is common in fashion, deciding on what watch to buy will always come down to the wearer’s tastes. Some enjoy sporty-looking timepieces, while others prefer elegant dress watches. However, with the Hamilton Intra-Matic Auto Ref. H38425120, you can get the best of both worlds. Ideally, this is a wristwatch for those who like the Intra-Matic Auto Chrono’s more rugged dial design, but without its chronograph sub-dials, pushers, and extravagant price.

This version of the Hamilton Intra-Matic is housed in a 40mm stainless steel case, paired with a matching stainless steel mesh bracelet. The crown on the right side of the case is larger than the ones seen on other Intra-Matic Auto watches, but it is not as thick as the Intra-Matic Auto Chrono’s crown. On the underside of the watch, you can find a solid steel rear case engraved with multiple “H’s”, as part of the brand’s trademark. This timepiece also has a depth rating of 50m. This is enough to withstand some showers and downpours, but not quite adequate for water activities like swimming.

Like the Hamilton Intra-Matic Auto Chrono, this watch’s dial has a differently-coloured inner bezel, this time in black. Instead of bearing a tachymeter scale, however, this bezel has Arabic numerals in intervals of five, serving as indicators for the minute track. The dial itself shows off a soft white hue and comprises applied baton hour markers, silver pencil watch hands coated in lume, and a date display at 6 o’clock. Driving this watch is the Hamilton Calibre H-10, an automatic movement that is quite similar to Tissot‘s Powermatic 80 movement. The Hamilton Calibre H-10 beats at 21,600 vibrations per hour and comes with an impressive 80-hour power supply.

You can get this retro-styled timepiece from Hamilton for $850 USD.

5. Hamilton Intra-Matic Auto Chrono Ref. H38436830

Standing out with a watch is harder than a lot of brands want you to think. The truth is that people will not often pay attention to what you are wearing on your wrist. So, if you really want others to notice the timekeeper you are wearing, you are going to need something with a truly bold look. And of course, the Hamilton Intra-Matic collection has something that can do just that. For a vintage-looking timepiece that is sure to attract attention, look no further than the Hamilton Intra-Matic Auto Chrono Ref. H38436830.

This extraordinary Hamilton timepiece comes in a 40mm stainless steel case, which has been entirely coated in a layer of yellow gold PVD. This is coupled with a brilliant yellow-gold calf leather strap. The surface of this case flaunts a polished finish that extends to its crown, pushers, and caseback. Its front is also sheltered by a layer of sapphire crystal, which is contained within the case’s fixed yellow gold bezel. With its screwed-in crown and caseback, this watch is water-resistant up to depths of 100 metres. In addition, it has a standard lug width of 20mm, making it easy to find an after-market strap in case you are not fond of its yellow gold band. 

The dial of this Intra-Matic watch showcases a jet-black surface, which contrasts sharply against its all-gold exterior. It is also topped with yellow gold PVD baton indices, slender dauphine hands, a date window at 6 o’clock, and a gold tachymeter scale on the rim of the dial. Its hour markers and hands are all applied with lume for optimal readability even in the dark. At the centre of the dial, you can find two chronograph sub-dials, tinted in gold, with black numerals and indices.

This watch is run by an automatic Hamilton H-30 calibre, with a beat frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour and a 60-hour power reserve. On the whole, this Hamilton Intra-Matic piece bears an incredible resemblance to the luxurious Rolex Cosmograph Daytona Ref. 116508.

This watch is available for approximately $2,295 USD.

6. Hamilton Intra-Matic Auto Ref. H38455731

Elegant, reliable, and versatile, the Hamilton Intra-Matic Auto Ref. H38455731 is the ideal timekeeper for those who want to acquire sophistication at an affordable price.

This Hamilton Intra-Matic’s watch is presented in a 38mm round stainless steel case featuring polished sides, slim lugs, and an unguarded crown on its right. The back of this timepiece is sealed shut by a see-through caseback that gives wearers a full view of the watch’s movement in all its mechanical glory. Thanks to this caseback and the screwed-down crown, this watch has a depth rating of 50m, preventing raindrops and shower water from getting into the case. To complete its look, Hamilton pairs this Intra-Matic piece with a black goat leather strap. 

This watch is another minimalistic Intra-Matic variant, with a simple and straightforward dial. The dial boasts a sleek black sunray finish and contains silver-tone stick indices and hands, along with a rectangular date aperture at 6 o’clock. While this Hamilton watch has American roots, this type of minimalistic dial design is most akin to the appealing Bauhaus art concept that German brands like Junghans abide by. Powering this watch is an ETA 2892-A2 movement. This calibre possesses 21 jewels and a 42-hour power reserve. 

This classic black dial Hamilton watch sells for around $720 USD.

Why Opt for the Hamilton Intra-Matic?

There is a lot to talk about with the Hamilton Intra-Matic. But the most crucial thing is still what is in it for us? Let us do a quick recap of all the benefits and conveniences the Hamilton Intra-Matic watches provide us with.

1. Unique and Eye-Catching Design

The biggest draw of any Hamilton Intra-Matic is its dial design. All of the Hamilton Intra-Matic watches flaunt dials that are straightforward, refined, and highly legible. The brand also offers its Intra-Matic watches in a variety of pleasant colours beyond what we have listed above, so you can have all the variety you want with the Intra-Matic collection. When looking through different watch brands, you will see that there are not many models designed quite like the Hamilton Intra-Matic. Without a doubt, this selection of watches will have no trouble helping you feel special and one-of-a-kind.

2. Relatively Affordable

Accessibility is always an important factor to consider when buying a watch. Thankfully, the Hamilton Intra-Matic is relatively affordable. The cheapest model in the series, the Intra-Matic Ref. H38455751, costs around $845 USD. On the other hand, the most expensive variant, the Intra-Matic Ref. H38426820, fetches a price of around $2,330 USD. Whether you want an affordable vintage-inspired timepiece or something a bit more extravagant, the Hamilton Intra-Matic has a model for you.

3. Durable and Reliable

All the Hamilton Intra-Matic watches are made from high-quality stainless steel. This material is popularly used by luxury watch brands because of its tensile strength and resistance to corrosion and scratches. Lower-end Hamilton Intra-Matic models are water-resistant up to depths of 50m, allowing them to survive downpours and showers. The more expensive models have solid water resistance ratings of 100m, so you can easily bring them for a swim. Finally, each model comes equipped with reliable movements that can run for more than two days.

4. Authentic Watches with Rich Heritage 

A brand’s authenticity is one of the main forces that drive customers to purchase from them and them only. Why buy from a brand you are not sure about when you can trust one that has remained true to its values since its conception? Hamilton is known by the watch community for its well-crafted timepieces. Bearing the recognition of being “Swiss-made,” you can assure yourself that your Hamilton watch is the real deal. And if you love a good backstory, the Hamilton Intra-Matic has roots dating back to the 1960s, giving it a truly vintage history.

Final Thoughts

The Hamilton Intra-Matic is a beautiful collection of relatively affordable retro-style watches. With pieces that fetch prices ranging from $850 USD to $2,330 USD, the Intra-Matic series has something for everyone, whether you are working with a tight budget or if you have some money to spare. Carrying the reputation of being Swiss-made timepieces also means that wearers cannot go wrong with any model from this series, since its durability and reliability are guaranteed. Rest assured that no matter which Hamilton Intra-Matic timepiece you go for, it will more than meet your expectations. 

Featured Image By: Hamilton Watch

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