The Traveling Watch
The Traveling Watch visited Kicktoc from Instagram. As you can see, he takes beautiful photos! Be sure to stop by his page and enjoy some of his photos!
Mokume-gane dials are returning
After a few bumps in the road it looks like they're coming back! This exotic material is matte but once some light hits it, all the sparkling twists and turns of the contrasting metals are revealed. It will be available in a few different variations and colors, some of which fluoresce under UV light-very neat! Keep your eyes peeled!
Hamilton Khaki, a review
Hey Watch Family,
J.R. here from The Charleston Watch Society in my last post, I reviewed the Traveling Watch from our very own Watches by Nick. I am going to go out on a limb here and assume that since you are reading this you know whom I am talking about. (If you do not…. Well, you are on his website.) The Traveling Watch is a mil-style bespoke field watch. (To hear my thoughts, check out my review below)
Still feeling the flame from Nick's military styled field watch, I wanted to review the iconic Hamilton Khaki Field Auto. I am talking specifically about the 38mm reference H70455533. (One that I own and love) This watch pays homage to the military styled field watches that Hamilton has produced since the 1940’s. Everything about the Hamilton Khaki 38mm field watch walks a fine line between rugged and elegant. The watch is so simplistic, yet I find myself doting over the incredible design and its ability to captivate me for hours on end.
An automatic ETA 2824-2 movement powers the Hamilton Khaki Auto 38mm. (ETACHRON- Eta: is a subsidiary of the wonderful Swatch group, and was once part of Eterna. I could trace back further, but that will be another review. For now just know I am referring to the automatic movement) The ETA 2824 is a true workhorse. (ETA.SA are held to extremely high standards.) Eta produces three in-stock variants of the 2824, a base model, a mid tier model, and the highly decorated top tier model. This particular variant of the 2824 is a standard base model. Which in my mind is absolutely perfect for the simplistically rugged Hamilton Khaki. It has 25 Jewels running at 28,800 BPH. The movement also features a date function, corrector, as well as a hacking second. The hacking function helps to set and synchronize the watch. It has a smooth sliding second hand that sweeps around the watch slowly perpetuating the hour and minute hands. Last but not least it is outfitted with a shock protectant. In my opinion the rugged and reliable 2824-2 is the perfect counterpart for the Khaki. Remember this watch is about functionality. Like traditional dive watches, I consider field watches to be tools. They where initially designed with the sole intent of helping people in harsh and formidable terrain tell time. In this case the military and infantrymen that fought in the fields, and trenches of WWI. (Starting to get the picture) Few other watches can be considered a tool watch, and this is one. The need for a spiced up 2824-2, or in-house movement would just defeat the purpose; and most definitely raise the price.
Onto its physical appearance, attributes, and the aesthetics of this beautiful watch. The Hamilton Khaki sits in a 38mm X 11.5mm case, which is a perfect size for this watch. It is composed almost entirely of brushed stainless steel, while having a smooth, mirror like reflective polished (SS) bezel. The polished bezel is a great touch, one that helps to dress it up a bit. The dial is dark, dark black with the traditional white numerals making for a beautiful monochrome face. It sounds like it could be crowded when you hear all that goes on with the dial, but it’s not in the slightest, allowing for the reader to have easy access to everything essential. The dial does not feel clustered, overcrowded, or forced at all. You will have no trouble figuring out exactly what time it is. The 60-second markers sit on the outermost edge of the dial. (The font just right in size, not too small, but not so large that it becomes screwy) As tradition goes, this mil-style field watch exhibits boldly styled twelve-hour numerals pronounced in white. They sit in a grooved like ring that resembles the tacks of an old record. These grooves do a great job separating the twelve-hour numerals, and also help to add dimension to the dial. The circular track also catches the light, adding different little accents that I enjoy. As is tradition with this watch, the 24-hour markers are directly below the hour markers. This provides your eyes with easy access to the time, and quick readability. Hamilton is layered horizontally across the upper-middle portion of the inner most part of the dial, right below 24:00. Khaki Automatic sits centered on the inner most portion of the dial, above the 18:00. The hour and minute hands are white, and covered in C1 superluminova. So are the hour markers, and the dots that mark the hours. Providing for an awesome look at night. Though the lume is great when initiated (holding a light over the watch) its not the strongest lume out there (Definitely NOT the worst!). The second hand (white) has a red tipped arrow at the end, adding a pop of color that just feels and looks great! Enough to help add to the bravado of this watch, while maintaining the subtle theme 'less is more’ (functionality!).
This watch is all about purpose, and function-it’s just an added bonus that it looks so nice.It couldn’t serve as an every day tool watch, if it didn’t have the date, could it? The date window is conveniently located at 3 o’clock, and has an easy set function. The watch has a flat, yet slightly domed sapphire crystal, something I want in my everyday wearer. (I would like to point out that the domed Sapphire is minimal at that!) It does however lack any AR coating (Anti-Reflective) and that should not be a problem: unless you are taking pictures. (I need AR) Hamilton Watch doesn’t seem to use AR coating, something I couldn’t find much information on. (Please comment below if you know) Incase you don’t know; sapphire crystal is extremely resistant to scratches. The exhibition case back is also sapphire crystal. In my humble opinion the ability to see the movements is an added bonus, one that is never a necessity, but something I enjoy nonetheless. This feature is just one of those added bonuses (never a make or break for me) that watch brands choose to either do or not do. In this case, I think that it helps with the overall feel of the watch, and its one of those subtle touches that dresses, an otherwise completely utilitarian watch up. If you read my last review (On Nick’s Traveling Watch) you know that I think it is also nice to be able to see a bit of what is under the hood. Last but not least, the crown is a large perfectly sized crown that bares the letter H. The size is perfect, large enough for you to have control with no problems, and never feel like it’s going to just pop off. (Speaking of pop off) The crown is not a screw in crown; it’s just a push in crown. Although I knew that when buying this watch, it is still something that I would have liked to see.
This particular model, the Hamilton Khaki Auto 38mm ref H70455533 comes on a brown leather strap. The strap has contrasting white stitches, going with the overall vintage feel. The leather on this particular model is actually a bit stiff. This is a tough for me (Seeing that I own 3 Hammys) because it didn’t bother me at all. However, I know how soft flexible, plush leather feels. I cannot tell you why they chose stiffer leather; I am going to go with “durability.” (And to keep costs down). There are four different variants of this model; one that comes outfitted with a stainless steel bracelet, one on a black leather strap. Then, last but not least; we have the “bold silver” faced variant on brown leather.
Overall the watch is great, and I really love it. I can typically find more then a handful of things that I would like to change, not in the Khaki’s case The MSRP is right around $575.00 and for that price you cant beat it. I mean come on, a Swiss Automatic movement (An ETA 2824-2 on its own can go for $250.00+), sapphire crystal and an exhibition case. That alone is worth more then $575.00, but remember Hamilton Watch is a large brand. The same company that owns Hamilton owns the company (ETA) that manufactures the movement. (The Swatch Group) I recommend if you like this watch, buy it. I also recommend that you look around for different AD’s on the Internet and hopefully you will come across a slightly better price. If not, definitely don’t feel bad paying MSRP, you will have a great watch. I will leave you with a few final words; always do your due diligence! And if it sounds to good to be true, It is...
Pro’s:
· 38 x 11.5mm is the perfect size.
· Sapphire Crystal.
· Monochrome face, easy to read.
· Homage to watches that came before.
· Exhibition case back.
Con’s:
· There is no AR coating.
· Leather is a bit stiff.
· Push in crown.
· Lume could be brighter.
· Minimally domed sapphire crystal.
Charleston, SC
Hey Watch Family, If you are reading this you either know me from Instagram (@Thecharlestonwatchsociety), or you know Nick (the owner and designer of the Traveling Watch/ Watches by Nick.) This is my first official review for Watches by Nick , and I will be reviewing a plethora of different watches on this very blog. I will be going through and giving you my take on many of my personal watches. I will also be getting hands on with many contemporary grails.I will focus on a few incredible vintage pieces that are floating around Charleston. I am also going to throw in the occasional watch (es) that I think you need to know about, or just think are down right cool. I will be quest appearing on @watches_by_nick (Instagram). Make sure that if you are not already following us, you are checking in periodically.
With this being my first official review. Nick being generous enough, and interested in hosting my reviews, I thought it fitting to start off with the review of the Traveling Watch. I was presented with this incredible opportunity to be a host, and essentially go on a stay-cation with the Traveling Watch. What is the Traveling Watch? Nick thought it would be a great way to allow people to get a first hand look at one of his fine watches. The Traveling Watch is a military inspired Field Watch that Nick created. This watch set out to hit the mean streets of America, to see the sites that have made this country great, and eventually the world. (Any takers in Russia? Comment bellow, no seriously!) I think it’s a rad idea; so even if the watch had been horrible. It would have still got a point for a serious cool factor.
What is the Traveling Watch I call it a bespoke field watch. You might call it a modified Seiko, and we are both technically right! For this reviews sake, since I am the writer I am going with the bespoke Field Watch. A Seiko 7S26 automatic movement powers the Traveling Watch. Seiko’s 7S26 movement is a tried and true work horse, no frills, gets the job done movement. This is the very movement that is in many of the Seiko watches we have come to love. It is also a movement that has helped Seiko dominate the practical watch market. Even if you are a complete watch snob, who looks down on Seiko you respect this movement. It was originally introduced in 1996 and has continued through to today (There are several variants) the 7S26 movement has 21 Jewels with a Vph of 21,600 A/H and a killer power reserve of 40 hours. (Give or take) It’s even magnetically resistant to about 60 gauss. Just in case you like to bounce your watch off things, rest semi assured, it is outfitted with Diashock shock protection. The Traveling Watch boasts a clean traditional black and white dial. It has small yellow triangular indices marking the hours. (Suggesting a little quasi-Patina) As it is inspired by the traditional military styled Field Watch, the hours are marked clearly in white, with a set of smaller 24-hour markers on the inside track, placed perfectly below the traditional 12-hour markers. The white hour markers sit on a bed of black for the dial, again making for easy readability and a super sweet traditional look. This design makes for optimal visibility, and the ability to tell accurate time whenever, wherever. Nick did not stray far from tradition. He did however add some sweet new upgrades that you will be hard pressed to find, on most traditional Field Watches. To help make the dial more visible and in my mind more readable, there is a domed magnifying crystal. The watch is also fitted with C3 lume to help you see in the dark, or while you are making the dangerous trek from bar to bar. Everything I have discussed above fits perfectly into a 39mm stock Seiko case. (Hitting my sweet spot, between 36mm-42mm) I know that can be small for some people. The wrist presence that this watch projects will quickly help you forget that you ever needed a larger watch. The Traveling Watch was issued with a standard NATO strap, but after what seemed to be an incredible visit to Artisan Strap Company, it was decided that it needed to be on one of their beautiful 20mm leather straps (check them out!)
What is the Traveling Watch? Like I stated before, it is a bespoke military style Field Watch, powered by an incredibly reliable automatic Seiko 7S26 movement. Nick’s Traveling Watch is like an ode to the traditional timepieces that we used on the battlefields years ago. While the watch plays into tradition, it still has a subtly modern, and contemporary feel that you are sure to notice.
It is true, I absolutely fell for this watch, and Nick’s brand in general, but no watch review would be complete without the cons list. This part is not that hard, there are definitely a few things I would change and or like to see. The domed magnifying crystal can make it hard to see at an angle as it distorts the view from the side. The exhibition case back is an excellent touch that I feel most people enjoy. I do as well; it is always fun to see what you have under the hood. The Traveling Watch has the original Seiko exhibition case back, which to me feels slightly unfinished. That is an incredibly easy fix that I believe Nick is addressing. Remember this is a bespoke Seiko watch. No one is hiding that fact; I guess I would like to see a slightly more personalized exhibition case. That might just be me, because I see this watch completely independent of Seiko. Being that it is powered by the 7S26 movement it is lacking a hacking seconds hand. Last but not least I would like to see a screw in crown. Not because I want to go diving, but because I feel it would add a bit of a twist to this watch. Overall I had an amazing romantic week with the Traveling Watch. Matter a fact my fiancé told me if I want to do this again I either need to bring her along, or better yet she wants an one of Nick's beautifully engraved pieces.
Final thoughts; the fit and finish are great, the movement that powers this watch is one of the best, and it allows the watch to be durable, reliable, and affordable. The color scheme is perfect, and as I said extremely traditional. The watch itself was extremely durable; this watch has seen its fair share of cities. While visiting the different places it has accumulated many love taps, yet it never skipped a beat. I would love to see a hacking function, and a more personalized exhibition case back. I had many different people ask what kind of watch it was, and it was definitely fun to compare it to my Hamilton Khaki Field Watch. (Which I will definitely review) Nick has a passion for horology, and this shows in his watches, he strives to create a quality product for an affordable price. What did they say, build it and they will come!! I think so…..
NYC and Brooklyn!
The Traveling Watch and the Brooklyn Bridge.
The Traveling Watch made it to NYC and Brooklyn this past week, courtesy if johnnyswatches. Thanks Johnny!
An albino Ball Python in the background.
The Traveling Watch visits Artisan Strap CO.
The Traveling Watch in the foreground with a Sultan in the back. Both have received custom straps from ASC.
The Traveling Watch made it out to California to visit the folks at Artisan Strap Co. while it was out there trying on straps and catching some nice sunny weather it was decided that it looked too good on one of the new straps to go back to the nylon Zulu strap. From here on out the Traveling Watch will be traveling on an ASC strap! Thanks!
The Traveling Watch visits Maine!
Photo Credit: Paul Lewin
The Traveling Watch is spending some time amongst barnacles, snails and starfish on the rocky cost of Maine. Great shot! Credit goes to Paul Lewin be sure to check out his IG page!
Engraved watch parts inbound
Modified SNK809 with a hand engraved bezel
Here's something new for Seiko mods, engraved parts. Bezels, cases, chapter rings-stayed tuned. Cool stuff is coming.
The Traveling Watch visits the White House!
The Traveling Watch has made it to Washington DC on the wrist of The Time Bum! He specializes in great reviews and photography-he even does the occasional giveaway! He's quite active on his twitter as well as his instagram, so be sure to send a tweet and have a conversation!
Thanks for hosting the Traveling Watch!
The Traveling watch makes its first stop in Chicago!
Photo credit: Chris Scott
The Traveling Watch has made its way to Chicago for the debut journey! Chris Scott (Instagram) christened the first of many stops and wrote a wonderful review! If you like diving, swimming and looking good, he writes a great column (click to check it out here!) on style and watches. Curious about whether or not the Seiko SKX007 makes a better affordable diver than the Orient Ray? Or what to wear with that nice new watch of yours? Chris has you covered!
Thanks for being part of the Traveling Watch, Chris! Wonderful review and great photos, as always!
The Traveling Watch at Montrose Harbor. Photo credit: Chris Scott
The Field Standard S2
IT'S RETURNING
The Field Standard "S2" is returning to Go & Behold. This time it'll feature new and improved hands with better lume (C3) as well as a (thicker) domed magnifying crystal.
The Traveling Watch
The Traveling Watch
Here's The Traveling Watch. What's that? I've decided this watch will take turns being sent to different people. Bloggers, journalists, and people part of publications will have an opportunity to try this watch for a period of time in exchange for a review. It's a fun way to get to wear a neat watch for a little while. Are you someone with a website or blog that would like to wear a neat watch and review it for a week or two? Do you know someone that falls into this category? Let me know!
Ideally, I'd love to see the watch travel the world and go on different adventures, I envision it having its photo taken in front of the opera house in Sydney and then again later in front of the Golden Gate Bridge, maybe a stop to the Eiffel Tower or The Statue of Liberty.
Lets get this watch on some adventures!
Handmade Cork Straps
1955 Omega Constellation on a handmade cork strap.
I'll be carrying a limited number (initially) of handmade cork straps, they should be complete in a couple weeks. Depending on their popularity I'll continue to have runs made (potentially in different stitch colorways and cork shades).
Aside from looking great, cork is very supple and soft, these are some of the most comfortable and form fitting straps out there. They're very breathable and lightweight, which make them a great summer strap in terms of combating heat and heavy sweaty leather straps.
The first run will be 3 pieces, two of them will be 20mm tapering to 18mm at the buckle and one of them will be 18mm tapering to 16mm. It's a wonderful material for a strap, and if this is a success then more exciting cork straps will be on the way!
Keep your eyes peeled.
Watch box design and lining.
I've lined the mahogany prototype watch box with some red velvet-I think it looks great. The production ones will be maple, I'm thinking about whether or not to use felt or velvet. I definitely love the look and feel of velvet but felt may be more practical and easy to work with. Decisions decisions.
Mokume-gane
Mokume-gane, roughly translating from Japanese to English meaning "wood grain metal". The stuff is pretty cool, not to mention absolutely gorgeous. One of my goals is to bring exciting and exotic materials to the watch world-at an accessible price. This is a continuation of that journey. Here you see the uncut mokume stock, which will become dials and bezel inserts.
Oh yeah, it also fluoresces under UV light, how cool is that?