During the late 1960s and early 1970s, the British Ministry of Defence commissioned four manufacturers—Hamilton, CWC, Precista and Newmark—to produce robust, reliable timepieces for service personnel. These became fondly known as the “Fab Four.” Hamilton was arguably the most prominent of the group, already well-established through its American military contracts. Their Fab Four watches combined precision Swiss movements, clean sterile dials, fixed lug bars and tritium lume, creating practical, battle-ready wristwatches now highly sought after by collectors.

What's on Offer

We’re delighted to offer this superb Hamilton military chronograph – one of the elusive “Fab Four” commissioned by the British Ministry of Defence. Issued in 1970, as confirmed by its original military engravings (0552/924-3306 725/70), it’s a textbook example of British military design and utility.

The matte black dial remains wonderfully preserved, with crisp Arabic numerals, twin recessed chronograph registers and that all-important circled ‘T’, indicating tritium lume. The original lume is still present on both the hour plots and the syringe style hands. 

Housed in a rugged stainless steel asymmetrical case (designed to shield the pushers), the watch retains its military character without looking over-polished or over-restored. Under the hood ticks the legendary Valjoux 7733 – reliable, easy to service and built for battlefield precision.

Presented on a NATO style strap this is a truly special piece of British military aviation history – and an essential addition for any serious military watch collector.