Pre-owned Hamilton watches

Founded in 1892 in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, Hamilton quickly established itself as a key player in American watchmaking, known for innovation, precision, and durability. Originally specializing in pocket watches for the U.S. railroad system, Hamilton soon earned a reputation for producing exceptionally reliable timepieces. Nicknamed “the watch of railroad accuracy,” its watches played a crucial role in ensuring the safety of train travel across the United States.

During both World Wars, the brand gained further prestige by supplying robust, dependable wristwatches to the U.S. military. In World War II, Hamilton even halted civilian production to focus entirely on military output, delivering over a million watches. This close association with the armed forces continues to inspire the brand's aesthetic and technical codes to this day.

Among its most iconic models is the Khaki Field, a rugged, highly legible field watch inspired by 1940s military timepieces. The Khaki Aviation pays tribute to Hamilton's aeronautical heritage with features designed for pilots. In contrast, the Ventura, launched in 1957, revolutionized watchmaking as the world's first electric watch. With its futuristic design by Richard Arbib and its appearance on Elvis Presley's wrist, the Ventura remains a cult object in horological design.

Acquired in the 1970s by what would become the Swatch Group, Hamilton successfully retained its American roots while embracing Swiss watchmaking expertise. This dual identity makes Hamilton a distinctive choice for enthusiasts of technical and historical timepieces.

Hamilton also has a strong presence in the film industry, having featured in over 500 movies — including Interstellar, Tenet, and Men in Black. These high-profile appearances have further cemented the brand's appeal among collectors and the general public alike.

On the pre-owned Hamilton watch market, there is strong demand for vintage models such as original Venturas, marine chronometers, and historic military watches. At Mostra Store, our experts hand-pick each piece, ensuring every model is thoroughly serviced and expertly authenticated.

Choosing a vintage Hamilton means owning a piece of American history — a watch with timeless style once worn on battlefields or aboard long-distance trains. It's also a conscious, sustainable choice: a high-quality timepiece, meticulously restored and ready to begin a new chapter on your wrist.