Circa 1955-1957.
Featured here is a vintage Hamilton Automatic K-454 also referred to as the “Sputnik” due to its resemblance to the Soviet satellite launched into orbit in 1957. This one definitely has a Richard Arbib flare as he sketched the protype and the final released version was nearly identical to his sketch with the exception of the suggested hooded lugs. Arbib was the designer of the famed Hamilton Ventura model and creator of the most futuristic Hamilton watch company designs of the 1950s-60s. This so-called "Sputnik" model is in a standard round style case with a futuristic design element combining the sloped, double stepped bezel, recessed crown and "Sputnik" form lugs. This watch features 10K yellow gold-filled case with a stainless steel back and the dial consists of 18K gold luminous dots and flush gold markers. The dial and hands appear to be original to this timepiece. Powering this watch is a genuine Hamilton grade 661 automatic movement with 17 jewels that has been recently serviced and kept excellent time over a 24 hour period. The case measures approximately 34mm wide x 40mm in overall length. The inside case back is marked: K454 Hamilton Watch Co., Lancaster P.A., 10K GF BEZEL, Steel Back L&K, L755664.
Featured here is a vintage Hamilton Automatic K-454 also referred to as the “Sputnik” due to its resemblance to the Soviet satellite launched into orbit in 1957. This one definitely has a Richard Arbib flare as he sketched the protype and the final released version was nearly identical to his sketch with the exception of the suggested hooded lugs. Arbib was the designer of the famed Hamilton Ventura model and creator of the most futuristic Hamilton watch company designs of the 1950s-60s. This so-called "Sputnik" model is in a standard round style case with a futuristic design element combining the sloped, double stepped bezel, recessed crown and "Sputnik" form lugs. This watch features 10K yellow gold-filled case with a stainless steel back and the dial consists of 18K gold luminous dots and flush gold markers. The dial and hands appear to be original to this timepiece. Powering this watch is a genuine Hamilton grade 661 automatic movement with 17 jewels that has been recently serviced and kept excellent time over a 24 hour period. The case measures approximately 34mm wide x 40mm in overall length. The inside case back is marked: K454 Hamilton Watch Co., Lancaster P.A., 10K GF BEZEL, Steel Back L&K, L755664.