Agree with everything you've said, except that the hour hand partially obscuring the military time numbers is a total non-issue for me. I have a Hamilton that was a Christmas gift from my grandmother to my grandfather in 1947. It's stunningly beautiful in it's austere simplicity, and has always worked flawlessly. I also have expensive dress watches which I love, but rarely wear, especially these days in quarantine. For years I've kept a weather eye out for a mechanical, automatic field watch that I could wear on a daily basis, something practical and good-looking, but not so dressy as to be inappropriate. As soon as I saw this Hamilton, I knew that it was the one. I love the execution of this design, because of its versatility and the fact that it's a high-quality , reliable, easy-to-wear (i.e, thin) Swiss timepiece from a company I know well. And of equal importance, it's simply stunning. I love the red arrowhead on the second hand; it absolutely makes the watch face. Also love the display back, though I do wish it had a bit of decorative work showing. However, at this price, which I consider to be very, very reasonable, it's a wish rather than a criticism. Mine is arriving today, and I feel like a kid on Christmas morning!
Lol, everyone else on RU-vid complains about the clarity of the Crystal due to the lack of non reflective coating applied, and this guy says that is super clear! Also lasers to regulate? Hahaha maybe you saw the review where they say that sharks with lasers on their heads regulated this movement... what a joker.
I'm new to your channel but so far I must say I really like your style and the way you present your perspectives. I think if you keep it up you will be leading the watch reviews on RU-vid well done!
darrell, That is so kind of you to say. Thank you so much. I will do my best to keep up the high-quality content in the future, and even improve upon it. Thanks again. -Jon Rihtar
This is probably the best video review of this watch I have seen, the details shown are amazing. I've been debating for months whether to sell my sarb033 and buy this (can't afford two watches of that price range and don't even want to - just want one perfect watch). I love the sarb, especially as mine turned out to run at -1 second a day but I also love the look of the Hamilton - there's just more to look at on the dial and I'm more of a field watch type of guy. On the other hand, I'd prefer the older high beat 2824 and I want to be able to have it regulated without sending it away - might be too late for that. Thank you for the review, it will help a lot with my decision.
Hey repo4, Thank you for watching and for the kind words. I can completely relate and I go through these same battles myself on deciding the watches to purchase. Let me know if you have any additional questions in case I assist your decision. I wish you the best of luck. -Jon Rihtar
repo4 - I once had the Hamilton khaki 38mm. The size is what I liked but the oversized stem dug into my hand. I replaced it with the Hamilton quartz chronograph which is 40mm but a shallow stem and it’s more comfortable.
This is a a watch that you can appreciate the more you look at it. The syringe hands, crisp numerals, outer groove track. Only issue I had was the large stem jabbing into my hand. Regretfully had to return it but found the Hamilton quartz field chronograph 40mm on eBay that had a lower stem and it’s comfortable. Wish the field khaki had a lower stem. Would have kept that one.
themightysquid, This is a watch I always look back on fondly. It is so sharp and extremely versatile. I did not have comfort issues with this watch personally, but I can definitely see how the crown could be an issue for some people. But the Hamilton Khaki Field Automatic really is a tremendous value for the number of high-quality features applied to this timepiece. Thanks for the comment! -Jon Rihtar
WATCHSPEC - so true. I still admire this watch and wish I could have switched out the stem. I wear my watches low and slightly loose so it just irritated my hand. The Hamilton chrono has the same dial just with 3 chrono complications and a white, not red arrow tip on the second hand. That touch of red would have been nice.
The Hamilton khaki field automatic is a great watch in every way and looks beautiful 🤩 and classic, I’m happy 😊 to wear mine any where, the seiko doesn’t come close in looks and style in my opinion
I enjoy this watch and it alternates with my G-Shock for my everyday wear. I love my Sarb033 and Alpinist but since they are discontinued I wear them on special occasions.
I've had the alpinist but I still have my Hamilton 38mm khaki running at .4- deviation after 1 year and I'm beating it up, daily wear. Hope it keeps it up. Crystal like new, scratched bezel but bracelet and watch still looks great considering the abuse.
I have a Glycine Combat 6 (43mm) - GL0111 that changes the date in a similar way. It just snaps around one and a half minutes past midnight ... It's amazing
The red tip on the second hand Drew me to this watch too. Also it looks like the timex expedition I always wanted as a kid. The lume blows though on this watch. My only gripe.
Hi John, I'm with you - that red accent on the second hand is so small but adds so much to this watch. I just love that look. Thanks for watching, -Jon Rihtar
this is a great example for a watch where you dont have to spend a ton of money to have a nice allrounder. I just spent a lot more on a Tudor and honestly, it doesnt offer much more value than this watch.
Great review... The only thing missing I find is the wrist shot in day light (outdoors). It gives the clear view on reflections, as this Hamilton doesn't have anti reflective coating, I just wanted to see how it comes out to be outdoors. Otherwise great review. Also, I would like a comparison video of this with Seiko SARX035.
Good vid, ordered one. Watch collection complete! My collection consists of Longines Hydroconquest auto chrono Longines Hydroconquest auto divers Seiko solar field watch Maurice Lacroix chrono quartz Casio heavy duty W218H And when it arrives Hamilton Khaki auto 38mm
Wow, that's a nice collection! But is a watch collection ever going to be complete for us watch enthusiasts? Haha. Congrats on the new watch! Thanks for watching. -Jon Rihtar
I read somewhere that the H10 is actually a c07.611. Same specifications only with a traditional jeweled pallet in place of the c07.111's synthetic/plastic escapement.
That's what I heard too. However there are few sources. I found this tread though which makes a compelling argument in regards to the different jewel counts of the H 10 vs other c07.111 users like Tissot with their Powermatic 80. forums.watchuseek.com/f357/h-10-movement-details-4636991.html#/topics/4636991
Hi Adjunkt Thomas & John Smith, Thanks for the discussion. It is true that the H-10 in this Khaki Field Auto is based off of the C07.611 (which is based off the 2824-2). The C07.111 (also based off the 2824-2) is used in Hamilton's H-10-S and H-30 movements, which are used in just a limited number of models as far as I understand. In terms of the exact differences as it relates to component materials, there has been a lot of discussion on this with a lot of speculation - I'm not sure if any of the claims are actually proven one way or the other. I hope this helps. Thanks for watching. -Jon Rihtar
I feel as though comparing the Alpinist to the Khaki Field is apples and oranges. Mainly due to the fact that the Alpinist is offered in just one niche dial color...green. Then, you have a dual crown as to work that internal compass ring. Size, sure they’re the same, but again, IMHO, apples to oranges. I think a better comparison would be the Khaki Field & SARB033/035.
Screw downs are cool if you are going to be using it in deeper waters but they are a slight hassle otherwise. My Alpinist is still 200m despite only one of the crowns being screw down... Seems like that means the screw down isn’t mandatory but just to appease watch buyers.
Great review, it was really helpful. I've had mine for about 6 months now. I have the model with the brown leather wristband. I'm really happy this watch. My wrist is a bit small so it fits perfect. I wear it as my everyday watch. I also have the Hamilton intra matic 38mm that wear for more dressy look and for special occasions. That watch for me is perfection in all levels. Keep up the good work👍
a thorough review of a great watch jon and nice break down of the h10. it's a very solid movement. when it comes to field watches it has to be a hamilton. their military provenance is enough alone. i have the white khaki field and it's a cracking watch. lastly, come on folks let all your watch friends etc know about this channel, it's full of well researched and objective content and is deserving of way more subs :)
Great down-to-Earth video review bro. I appreciate your "everyman" approach and the detail you put into this. I will probably purchase one of these after watching your review. Thanks.
Looks great with your style mate, smart yet can be dressed down with a flannel shirt or T. I would prefer the champagne dial, but rare and significantly more expensive.
Hey Sebastian, Well you know where I stand, but I also totally get how the Alpinist won't work for everybody. Also, this Khaki Field Auto is simply stunning to look at. Simple and classic - and the fine detail is well executed for sure. Thanks for the comment. -Jon Rihtar
WATCHSPEC yes good review also both watches suit you a lot whats your wrist size. On a brown strap i might prefer the alpanist but i also like monochrome face on a bracelet like a black and white face. The red arrow on the second hand gives it a bit of pop. Whats your wrist size if i may ask as these fit you nicely and im torn between khaki field in your review and the khaki king. Whats your thoughts on that? I think the king is 40 mm
Hey Sebastian, Thanks for the kind words. My wrist measures at 7". You can see more wrist-shots in my written article at www.watchspec.com/hamilton-khaki-field-automatic/. The Khaki Field and Khaki King have a different feels. The Field Auto has the 38mm diameter, the red arrow, 100m water resistance - lending itself toward a bit of a sportier feel. The King on the other hand has a 40mm diameter as you said, the full-day compilcation, only 50m water resistance - this being more on the classier side. If I had to guess, i would say the Khaki King is the more popular model, and the size is perfect at 40mm. However, my vote goes for the Khaki Field with it's sporty feel, that is still has classy elements based on the quality details included. Even smaller at 38mm, the larger crown makes it wear like a 40mm. What is your wrist size? Thanks for the question. Let me know if I can help you any further. -Jon Rihtar
WATCHSPEC thank you for your informative reply. I am small around the wrist around 6.5 or 6 and 3/4s. I have only started to look into watches recently and have looked at many many reviews. Yes after your review and seeing this watch on your wrist im leaning towards the field. The khaki king is nice too i actually thought it was the more casual looker but as i said im not a watch expert so its good to know. I do like the day printed on the face of the khaki king and the shape of its case with the crown protector. Ive actually seen a version of the khaki field with the date printed on it too and lines marking the 24 hr dial but i think it doesnt look quite as good as the one in your review. I think in the end ill try both watches on and chose the one that looks better on my wrist. Thanks for your review.
*NOV-26 PRICE DROP ALERT* Hey everybody, I wanted to let you know that the price of this watch just temporarily dropped on Amazon by a couple hundred dollars! Usually these price drops only last for a few hours so if you are considering this watch, now would be a good time to act. Check out the deal here: amzn.to/2LgfV9O If you missed this deal, no need to worry. If you sign up for the newsletter at WATCHSPEC.COM, I will send an email if the price drops again anytime in the future. Cheers, -Jon Rihtar
Great review. I love my alpinist but that's a really cool everyday watch. But I'm not sure if it's so durable. Heard much bad about the water resistance by only shower or hand washing.
Hi Florian, The Alpinist/Khaki Field choice is a tough one. I really love them both. They're similar in many ways on paper, but do still have some performance differences as you mentioned. The Khaki Field is plenty durable, even though the water resistance isn't as great as the Alpinist. But I don't shower with my watches as a rule so it is never submerged and therefore never an issue. My vote still goes to the Alpinist - my favorite watch in my collection. Thanks for watching. -Jon Rihtar
American backbone. No one is able to make such a watch in America these days. America invented the alternative facts. That's what America is known in the world...not for making watches. Keep on dreaming
I'm so, sooo torn between this and the Seiko Alpinist...price is around the same, if I factor in the OEM bracelet for the Alpinist (Khaki 490€ at the AD, Alpinist 375€ with the stock leather strap which I would change). Both of them would be a great addition to my small collection (SARB035 and SKX009) as an all rounder watch.
Hey Ouroboros, That's a tough one. Either will be great watches and are almost identical in terms of quality features. You will have to consider your personal preferences, such as the style you're looking for, if the Khaki's crown would be a comfort issue for you, and if you want to diversify your collection to own something other than Seiko. As mentioned in this Hamilton Khaki Field Auto review, I do still give the edge to the Alpinist based on style and comfort, but this is my personal preference. The Khaki does have a better power reserve (80hr vs 50hr), but the Alpinist can be easily regulated where the Khaki would need to be sent in to Hamilton. I love my Alpinist and it is still my favorite watch in my collection. I hope this helps. Let me know if you have any further specific questions. -Jon Rihtar
@@watchspec I ended up ordering the Alpinist, had to listen to my heart...it's been a dream of mine for years! Now let's find a suitable bracelet that doesn't cost half as much as the watch!
@@BrakkoJanus That's awesome! Can't wait for your to get it. It really is an amazing watch! You won't regret it. For the strap, I would say go with the strapcode if you don't mind the price. But this watch really deserves to be on a bracelet. Congrats on the purchase! -Jon Rihtar
@@watchspec As an oyster fan myself, I definitely agree. Literally the only thing keeping me from buying the Strapcode is the protruding endlink, which I'm afraid would make it wear bigger than it is on my 6.5" wrist.
Hi David, This really is a great all-around watch that you can wear every day. Superb functionality, quality materials, and a fantastic look. Glad to hear you love it. Thanks for watching, -Jon Rihtar
I am going to get the new Seiko 5 . I tried one on at the AD . Very nice . I do not care if it is not a real dive watch . I do not go diving. 10 bar water resistance is ok for me . The movement is better also .
Just received mine and noticing that the lugs dont sit flush with the bracelet linkage. Lugs protrude a bit pat that first bracelet link is that normal or a misalignment?
Well I be honest it’s a great looking watch but where they modified the movement with lazors was not a smart move on Hamilton’s part because if something did happen to you would need it fixed your local jeweler wouldn’t be able to fix it you have to send it back in to Hamilton just to get it fixed it could be expensive God knows how long it take or when you would ever get your watch back not a fan of that..
Fantastic review.. date change is wonderful from ETA movements, I love since Visodate.. I will get 38mm for myself as well. Your video has very detailed macro views that really helped me with the decision, especially on the usability, really great video. Thanks for sharing.
The Alpinist has Some alignment problems and in comparison to H. fails the „ no nonsense“ test imho by what I mean the compass and even worse its rather loose inner ring construction. An elegant compass watch is somehow too much of too much.
Great video mate, the details you mentioned on the links contouring on your wrist made me make the final choice between leather strap or bracelet. I'm going for the 42mm with bracelet H70515137 which has the 28800 bph AND 80h power reserve.
Did you go ahead with the watch? I understood that H70515137 also has the H10 movement so is 21600bph. I believe Hamilton kept the same ref numbers when swapping from the 2824-2 to the H-10 so there are some inaccuracies to be found in product descriptions online.
I’m happy to report that I own both the Alpinist and Hamilton. Two tremendous watches. There’s just something about my Alpinist that I love so dearly. It’s my favorite watch of my whole collection. Nonetheless, my Hamilton is amazing. It’s a great every day watch that offers sensational readability and comfort. Great review sir!
Would it be possible to tell us what the bracelet model or serial number is? I have the same watch but with a leather strap and would like to get an oem bracelet for it, like yours. Thanks
Hi madmio M, The bracelet reference number from Hamilton is H605.704.103. Your best bet is probably to contact Hamilton directly, but you may be able to find it on ebay or other sites. Good luck! Thanks for watching! -Jon Rihtar
This watch is a classic, I have the leather strap version and will be purchasing the bracelet version soon. I would not bother trying to source a bracelet as the cost will be half the price of the watch.
I have the same watch with a silver dial. It seems a bit dressier, but I wonder how you and other viewers feel about the look compared to the black dial.
Great review. Considering the Khaki King. I prefer the Hamilton look over the Seiko alpinist. I appreciate the beauty of the alpinist but it just doesn't do it for me. The only thing that bothers me about the Hamilton is the lack of anti-reflective coating....just seems so glary.
Hi shredman59, I did not find glare to be a big problem with Hamilton. This Khaki Field Auto is a really attractive watch. The Khaki King you are considering is also attractive, but a slightly different feel than the Field of course. Still a nice choice. Thanks for watching. -Jon Rihtar
Do you have any recommendations for a similar style automatic watch to this Hamilton, the Seiko Presage cocktail time, or even the tissot visodate for a 7.75in, ~19.7cm wrist? Trying to find something other than a diver, thanks in advance!
Hey SYNc, I consider the Seiko Alpinist the most comparable watch to this Hamilton Khaki Field Automatic. You can find the Alpinist written review + video review here: www.watchspec.com/seiko-alpinist/ Both are field watches, both have 38mm diameter, sapphire crystal, quality movements with hacking and hand winding - the Alpinist just gets the edge in my opinion in its style. But you mention the Seiko Cocktail Time and the Tissot Visodate - both dress watches. Is that the style you are most interest in? Also, I see you have a larger wrist. Is there a certain case diameter range you would prefer? I hope I can help you find something you will really enjoy! Thanks for watching and thanks for the comment. -Jon Rihtar
@@watchspec I have worn a khaki king 2 at 40 mm and it was too small for my wrist. Yes, I am looking along the lines of more "dressy", style than say a diver. With my wrist, I am looking for more on the 42-44 mm. Thanks for the help!
@@astro0125 , Sorry for the delay on this. I did some research for your size and price target. Both the Cocktail Time and Visodate will be too small for you (40.5 and 40, respectively) if you want to stay within the 42~44mm range. My target was to give you the most watch for the money, so the below suggestions are automatic dress watches with larger cases, under $400, and include sapphire crystal and movement with hand-winding and hacking. Let me know if any of these work for you: 1) Orient Sun & Moon Version 3 - this is a watch that I am dying to get my hands on, especially the white (though I fear it will be too large for my wrist). -White: amzn.to/2VB2Jly -Black: amzn.to/2VAObT5 -Blue: amzn.to/2VAVqu7 -Champagne: amzn.to/2SIF3tt 2) Tissot T-Classic - not as classy as I would want, but it's simple and offers an 80-hour power reserve. -Black (only color below $400): amzn.to/2Rzmf2v 3) Orient Polaris GMT - I love GMTs, and this one looks great with the dauphine hands -White/silver: www.longislandwatch.com/Orient_DJ05003W_Polaris_GMT_Watch_p/dj05003w.htm -Black: www.longislandwatch.com/Orient_DJ05002B_Polaris_GMT_Watch_p/dj05002b.htm -White/rose gold: www.longislandwatch.com/Orient_DJ05001W_Polaris_GMT_Watch_p/dj05001w.htm 4) Orient Bambino Version 4 - it doesn't have sapphire crystal but the price is ridiculously low if you wanted a real steal. -Grey: amzn.to/2BVQIhy -Blue: amzn.to/2LOnllM -Green: amzn.to/2SB0wVk Note: I did just release my review of the entire Bambino Line. You can find the written article, video review and entire lineup options and specifications here: www.watchspec.com/orientbambino/ 5) Tissot Chemin Des Tourelles - just a tick above your price cap but wanted to include this for an additional consideration. A touch of modern in this sharp and clean dress watch, and includes the 80 hour power reserve. -White: amzn.to/2LU5XvW -Black: amzn.to/2CVBFpJ -Silver/rose gold: amzn.to/2C4r1LF I hope this helps. Let me know if you have any additional questions or need any further help. Cheers, -Jon Rihtar
Hi Gary, I understand the question but do not know the answer at the moment. I've just reached out to Hamilton directly to (hopefully) get an official answer for you. As soon as I get the response I will reply to this thread with the answer. Thanks for watching! -Jon Rihtar
Yeah, great, thanks. I find mainly Diver watches tend to use 316L and advertise it, but many of the lower or mid range watch makers for casual or dress styles tend to just advertise they have used "stainless steel", without mentioning the grade...
The proprietary adjustment system makes this a no no for me..Hamilton doing this more and more. Forcing customers to send watches into Swatch Group for servicing is mercenary and an indicator that the luxury watch market is following the European and American motor industry. Japanese watches, like Japanese cars, are made to be worked on by 'bush' mechanics in parts of the world where dealer networks dont exist
I own the Alpinist for about 3 years now and mostly love it...but found myself wishing it was a little thinner. It is a bit of a chunkster. It hides it well, but nevertheless it is a bit thick. Also I am not in love with the movement. It broke once and I had to get it fixed. Didn't cost much but still....and it is very inaccurate. It goes so fast, it's not even funny
Personal preference, the Visodate is dressy and vintage, while the King is more of a daily wear, field look. I tried the Visodate and I don't like it, but some do.
Hey Hari Charan, Ouroboros is correct regarding the style difference of these two watches. But it's quite a coincidence that you bring up the Visodate - I am actually going to be reviewing this watch in the near future. :D Thanks for watching. -Jon Rihtar
The Visodate is more at dressy side... And this Hamilton is more at unknown category (like the Rolex Explorer). Still this Hamilton can be easily pulled out at dressy side and soprty/field side too. In addition this Hamilton comes with 38mm and 42mm options, whereas Tissot Visodate comes only in 40mm size, which looks smaller than 40mm (imo). I have tried both and liked Hammy more. You should also go to the shop and try them in person. I will suggest to have look on Seiko SARX035 too.
Great video! Thanks for doing it! Quick question. Which watch would you recommend for a 6.5mm wrist? This one or the khaki king? Thanks! Keep up the good videos! I’m already subscribed 😀
Hi Alejandro, Thanks for the comment. I would definitely recommend this 38mm Khaki Field over the Khaki King for your wrist. However, it is definitely a personal preference. As a frame of reference, my wrist measures 7" around to give you an idea of how it might wear on your wrist size. I hope this helps. Thanks for watching! -Jon
Yo, I actually have both and i have 6.2inch wrists. I have found they are both awesome although the 38 is better fitting in all honesty. Khaki King bracelet doesn't have that odd line also. Either way they are awesome!
Just got mine today and love it, apart from the fact that the date on mine changed at around 12:15 AM... not sure if that's normal or not. I really would love for Hamilton to put a dateless Pioneer dial on a 38 mm khaki field case for a smaller Murph watch.
Hi porschephile2k3, Your date changeover does seem a bit off on your Khaki. Not sure if Hamilton would claim it to be out of spec or not. You can always ask (I was always taught that asking is free - the worst they can say is "no"). Aside from that, is it still keeping good time? Either way, I hope you can still enjoy it. Let me know if I can help in any way. Thanks for watching. -Jon Rihtar
@@watchspec I did email them and I was given a "tolerance" of -10/+15, but I think the rep was referring to the daily seconds deviation. I emailed them again and clarified but haven't got a reply yet. Other than that it is keeping really good time. It was around -5 seconds after 3 days of not wearing it.
