Hamilton was founded in Lancaster, Pennsylvania in 1882, initially specializing in producing pocket watches. The brand boasts a long and impressive history of breakthroughs in design and technology and perhaps is most famously known for their extensive work as the official supplier to the U.S. Armed Forces. 

While this piece was not designed expressly for the military, it still had distinct military ties as these Selfwinding ref. 815001-3 were also known as the Auto Saratoga (when in 14k yellow gold plating) and the Auto Yorktowne (when presented in stainless steel), like this one), though in 1975, both versions started being called the Saratoga. The names Yorktowne and Saratoga were used in homage to a pair of American aircraft carriers. 

This "Yorktowne" is simple yet beautiful with it's "C"-shaped case, 3-6-9-12 dial and red sweep seconds hand. It's one of the many very cool offerings from this brand, which tap into American heritage like no other watch brand can.  

SPECS

CASE & BRACELET

The stainless steel "C"-shaped case is in original and unpolished condition, and retains its original Hamilton-signed crown. The case back is clean and retains all of its factory markings. The watch will be supplied on its original stainless steel bracelet with Hamilton-signed clasp.

DIAL & HANDS

The silver dial has a matte finish with numerical markers at 3, 6, 9 and 12 o'clock. The rectangular indices at the rest of the hours are black. Each hour also features a lume plot that has aged to a cream color The lume is intact on the slim, cigarette-style hour and minute hands, with a solid red sweep seconds hand completing the design.

ACCESSORIES 

None. The watch is functioning correctly and keeping time, previous service history is unknown.