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INTRODUCING: The Hamilton Intra-Matic Chronograph H combines retro swagger with a mechanical movement INTRODUCING: The Hamilton Intra-Matic Chronograph H combines retro swagger with a mechanical movement
Introducing
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INTRODUCING: The Hamilton Intra-Matic Chronograph H combines retro swagger with a mechanical movement

Shane Hegarty

We really should have seen the Hamilton Intra-Matic Chronograph H coming. Having played with the idea before, this hand-wound, bi-register chrono – in beautifully proportioned panda and reverse panda dial variants – sees Hamilton effectively resurrect and update its first chronograph.

Hamilton Intra-Matic Chronograph H

The modern Intra-Matic Chronograph H is compelling in either dial, taking direct inspiration from 1968’s ‘Chronograph A’ and ‘Chronograph B’. Those original pieces have often aged beautifully, so it’s no surprise to see fauxtina deployed here. A box sapphire crystal further adds to that ’60s vibe. In all, though, it appears to be a watch that leans heavily on the vintage cues without ever losing its balance. 

Hamilton Intra-Matic Chronograph H

At 40mm, the case contains the new H-51 movement (utilising a base ETA-7753) with 60 hours power reserve. It also comes with a welcome 100m of water resistance. But while the Chronograph H is a modern take on Hamilton’s original chronograph, it’s also a natural step in the brand’s recent exploration of those ’60s designs – and suggests that while they’ve been looking backwards, they’ve also been responding to the tastes of modern watch-buyers.

Hamilton Intra-Matic Chronograph H

This is not the first model to find inspiration from the reverse panda looks of the ‘Chronograph B’. The 2017 Intra-Matic 68 automatic took a fair bit from it too, only widening the sub-dials and – more controversially – putting it in a 42mm case size that pushed it past the sweet spot for many.

Hamilton Intra-Matic Chronograph H

Hamilton appeared to take notice, following up with the 40mm Intra-Matic Auto Chrono. A handsome and popular release, it brought back an arguably under-appreciated design that once accompanied the groundbreaking Calibre 11 movement that made its claim to being the first automatic chronograph.

Hamilton Intra-Matic Chronograph H

Despite the Intra-Matic Auto Chrono’s success some still balk at its 14.6mm thickness (even if the vintage original has itself been described as having “hockey-puck” proportions). 

Hamilton Intra-Matic Chronograph H

Again, Hamilton appears to have listened, flagging this new release as a thinner, mechanical option. Yes, the Chronograph H is still a notable 14.35mm thick, but that box sapphire crystal should likely absorb some of that. Seeing it in the metal will be the ultimate test of how the watch wears across the wrist and, crucially, how high.

Hamilton Intra-Matic Chronograph H

Meanwhile, what’s left in Hamilton’s back catalogue for their next vintage revival? Only one of the most distinctive chronographs of the era. Hamilton also put that panda dial and Calibre 11 movement inside a striking squared case and, while the Fontainebleau might not be quite as bold as the famously asymmetric Ventura, it remains an unmistakable design. This is one of those select watches recognisable by silhouette alone. As the Intra-Matic line continues to pull from Hamilton’s chronograph heyday, a modern Fontainebleau would be an exciting release for any era.

Hamilton Intra-Matic Chronograph H

Hamilton Intra-Matic Chronograph H pricing and availability: 

The Hamilton Intra-Matic Chronograph H is CHF2075 on bracelet and CHF1995 on leather strap. The collection is currently available. For more details, visit Hamilton right here. Australian readers can purchase directly from the Time+Tide Shop.