Chronometer, Hamilton Watch Co., Model 22, 21 jewels, 1942

Description

CASE DIMENSIONS:
6" square
WEIGHT:
4 lbs 11 oz
Presented
is a WW II HAMILTON Model 22 Chronometer in its two section varnished wood case with full gimbal mounts. It is in fine condition with some minor scratches. Most of the original lacquer is present. This chronometer was made in 1942 and has been in the prior owners care ever since.
The 12 hour dial is without a blemish and looks as new. It reads HAMILTON LANCASTER, PA., U.S.A., 48 hour Up/Down Indicator at top, Seconds Bit Under. Inside, the movement is engraved the Model 22 specifications and U.S. Navy Bureau of Ships 1942. To the right of the balance wheel is 2F19020 which is the movements serial number.
The Hamilton Model 22 is a legendary watch, hurriedly designed when the USA was entering WWII, along with the far more complicated Model 21 marine chronometer; both are considered amongst the finest of their type. The 22 was even produced in the boxed-and-gimbaled format, as it was proven to be reliable enough to serve as a ship's primary timekeeper! The case is 70mm across, of plated and matted brass, and features a wonderful guarded crown and button to prevent inadvertent setting. Although the mainspring's power reserve is some 60 hours, and the dial indicates up to 48, it was intended that the watch would be wound each day at the same time for nearly perfect isochronisms. The enormous movement is fully adjusted and immaculately finished and striped. The elegant regulator uses a spring-loaded finger which traces the perimeter of a snail-cam.  Inventory # 0071