It’s amazing how such minute details can have such a profound effect in our perception of a watch. For me the curved ‘self winding’ on the Tudor Black Bay is just so killer.
I have not owned a Rolex but I would not be comfortable with it because I would be so worried that something would happen to it. I think you should wear a watch which you can lose and not care about it. 500$ is no money for me. But if you want to be a Rolex wearer that sum should be $10000. Poor people with Rolex is just ridicolous.
@Scott Jacobsen I'm not lying, I spend a lot of time doing outdoor activities, hence why I prefer the look and feel of the Hamilton. The OP is a brilliant watch but I find it sits between a dress and casual watch.
I own the Hammy on a brown leather strap, with the original ETA 2824 (~40 hr power reserve, higher beat rate of 28800). Bought as a gift to self for graduating college (2014). Still runs great today, brought it in to my watchmaker about a year ago and he regulated it and said the lubricants look fine and full service was not yet needed. Case has plenty of scratches from use, but the sapphire crystal looks the same as the day I got it. A real workhorse
I wore citizen eco-drive for about 13 years, they are accurate, easy, and come in a huge array of styles and sizes. They were the perfect watches to get me into watches more seriously. I think an Aqua Terra would be the perfect one watch for me if money was no concern, enough style, water resistance, and quality to make me a happy man.
I have 6 good working order watches in total, otherwise this Kaki field watch must be my "one watch" selection. my daily beater is a cheapest watch in the group :it was a Citizen eco drive AW 1430-86e.
I actually agree with your pick. I have 16 watches in my collection, including a Rolex, but my Hamilton Khaki Auto on a bracelet seems to be more of a go-to than pretty much all of my other watches. It just works in a variety of situations: Working around the house, wearing it with a dress shirt and pants for my job, excerising at the gym. Probaby the only thing I wouldn't pair it with is a Tux
In a few days, I will officially be retired. The company doesn't give watches but the tradition of a retirement watch has me with an excuse to buy. I've wanted a Hamilton for years, but it seemed like each model at one or more things that I didn't like. hen I happened upon this watch. I have an 8 inch wrist so 42 mm is in the sweet spot for me. This may just be my Hammy. Thanks!
I just ordered this Hamilton and have looked forward to it for a long time for all of the reasons you’ve stated. I do own a Smiths Everest as well, as a recent addition to my collection ... and it has quickly become a favorite on my wrist (at under $500). I’m a huge fan of German watches, and although it’s far from the “if money was no object” category... my Sinn 104 is a great one-watch collection timepiece. My goal ... a Rolex Explorer (114270).
I could wear that Hammy every day as my only watch. It is a robust, no nonsense timekeeper with perfect dimensions and is a tremendous value. And it doesn't use faux patina like other Hamilton field watches. People would never give it a second look. But I would know it was more special than a dollar amount. --Michael My one watch would be my modern 36mm Datejust. But I have an emotional connection and it was an irrational choice as it was the one watch my dad wore. It is too expensive for what I really need though. A Seiko SARB033 would work for me just as well.
If I had to chose one watch I think it would be the SKX. Obviously the movement is behind, the crystal is not sapphire, and no solid end-links. But as many people said, the SKX is more then the sum of its parts. And there is something about the uniqueness of its design that makes you smile.
Yuval Sheer, Guy more than once said that a Seiko is a hit or a miss. I have the SKX with a “hit” movement, and I guess you probably have one, too, so I certainly agree with you. Besides, is it not funny that the SKX seem to hold up value pretty well, even that it is discontinued, and there are so many good alternatives like the Orient etc. Cheers from Denmark the Stig
I think I'd have to go with my Seiko SARB033, only because it's a bit dressier/work-appropriate than my Hamilton Khaki Field. In a no limit world....probably a Grand Seiko Snowflake. But in a no limit world there's no way I'd have one watch.
@@JustBlueFish very true, I would say the sarb35 because I don't see any other watch in this catagory with a cream face, not sure about the champagne Khaki.
The SARB is more of a dress watch but the Hamilton is more versatile. Doesnt look out of place in a formal setting but also works well with casual attire. The movement in the Hamilton is also much better than any Seiko I've owned. That being said my next watch will either be a SARB033 or an Alpinist.
SARB033 for me, as that's how I actually used it for a while. I prefer indexes and SARB has a nice lume scheme. Bracelets I don't wear, so they are all equally worthless to me.
Thanks for providing such detailed content. The amount of time you spend pulling this information together and setting the presentation is obvious Great job as always. One watch if price is not a factor = GRAND SEIKO Automatic GMT SBGM221 and One watch for under $500=Bulova 96B129 Precisionist .
You made an excellent case for the Hammy as a one watch collection. I agree with your assessment. In fact, a Hamilton Khaki Auto 38mm, exactly as you reviewed here, arrived in the mail at my house, TODAY. However, it is not for me... it is a graduation gift for my son. If I were to reduce to one watch, it would be at the top of the list.
@@jflas946 I wear my moonwatch as a dress watch all the time. Don't forget that Prince William got married wearing a Seamaster. With the right toolwatch there's no more need for a dress watch.
I have the 38mm..Absolutely love it, but 2 major gripes - 1 : the crystal reflects literally EVERYTHING around you. 2 : do NOT get it wet. I wore it to clean my fish tank, and condensation built up on the inside of the crystal. It disappeared after a couple of days, but still concerning for a watch labelled as 100m water resistant. Otherwise, a great watch.
100m water resistant doesn't mean water proof to 100m, even spashing water on you watch has a curtain water pressure, that's what that 100m rating says, if you submerge you watch and move it around under water that exposes the watch to higher and higher water pressure, usually 100m still isn't enough to actually submerge yet. i wouldn't actually swim with anything under 200m rating
@@richieb74 Watch with 100m WR must be capable for surface swimming, that's written in variety of watch manuals, for example, Casio. I even used to swim wearing Seiko 5 with 50m WR, and nothing happened with it.
Just bought this watch today, to replace my Glycine combat 6 vintage. Really like the watch, especially for the price, not liking the bracelet though. I've got it on leather, but it'll be going straight on to a single pass one piece strap as soon as it arrives.
I have this Hamilton, silver dial with the red tip second hand. I will re-watched this video I’m sure multiple times to curve the craving to buy another watch.
Stoic Student hmm, not sure if I agree with you there mate. I have the Hamilton Khaki field mechanical, with brown dial and brown case now I want the black on black too.
I won this watch with a leather strap (by far my favourite of my collection)and I agree with your points. Moreover, this watch could be pure perfection if it had an anti-reflective coating, no date, a screw-down crown and 200m WR. just my opinion
My personal choice for best value $500 watch is the Orient Kamasu at about $350. What I'm actually setting my dollars aside for is a Sinn 756 Duochronograph. It ticks all the boxes. Also, at less the $2000 I won't be afraid to wear it in most scenarios.
Even with 100m water resistance, I think it still needs a screw down crown. It confuses me to see other watches with the same water resistance rating and they have screw down crowns. I have the mechanical version of this watch, less water rating, and it had to go back for servicing under warranty from just being splashed because it delevoped moisture inside. Super accurate after being serviced and. I love it. For a one watch collection, I'd feel better with a screw down crown. Great review!
Screw down crowns don’t matter too much for me. Most cheaper watches don’t include extra seals when screwing down the crown, it’s just a safety so you don’t inadvertently pull the crown out underwater.
The main reason behind screw down originally in diver to avoid accidentally operating the crown underwater. High water resistance does not entirely NEED a screw down crown.
I have this model, great piece. I did have a problem with the rotor after a few weeks from new. The AD sent it back to Hamilton but as soon as I got it back the problem was still there so Hamilton replaced the movement, it been working spot on since I only wear it for about 2 weeks in rotation with my other pieces, but once a week I keep an eye on it.
When I was first getting into watches I bought a champagne dial Khaki King. Later on after I had bought a Speedmaster and Polar Explorer 2, 42mm, I gave the Khaki King to my wife. As much as I love the two watches I have, I still missing wearing the Hamilton. It’s the most comfortable watch I’ve ever worn, the size is perfect, it sits very flat on the wrist, it’s such a great watch. If I ever have to sell my two luxury pieces for some reason , it’ll be the watch I go back to if I could only have one watch. If budget were not a factor, my dream watch is a datograph, though it may not have the versatility needed for a one watch collection. With that as a consideration, I’d probably go with a Batman on an Oyster bracelet.
Thanks for the excellent review. I just got my Khaki Field 42mm and can confirm everything in this video as 100% true. It’s a beautiful, well made, very accurate piece on a great bracelet.
My watch collecting journey went through many stages, developed from luxury watches, primarily Rolex, to more practical, low key ones. I'm now down to 5 watches total: (1) a dress watch, (2) a diver, (3) a chrono, (4) a daily, and (5) an adventure watch. If I could own only 1 watch, it would certainly be a field watch, around 39.5 to 42 mm in diameter. A Hamilton would be very high on the list of candidates indeed.
The Khaki Field Automatic 38mm is a no-brainer at its price point. Period! It's on the very top of my short term wish list and I hope to add it to my collection very soon. Think I would go for a Grand Seiko model from their Heritage collection. They're absolutely awesome and beautifully designed and executed at a price point that I think is fair... Or a Rolex Explorer... or... or... Damn, there are too many nice pieces out there....
@@budoylanzon1852 maybe yours is the older model with ETA 2824? That one has listed power reserve of about 40 hours. Bcause mine with H10 movement definitely has power reserve close to 80 hours as tested.
Hamilton Khaki Field Quartz would be my pick. It’s reliable and has everything I want from a watch: accuracy, water resistance of at least 10atm, Sapphire Crystal, a date complication, reliability and I happen to like how it looks with its perfect 38mm :)
Hmm, a toughie, Under £500, Citizen Promaster Dive,r money no object, Omega Seamaster 300m. Outstanding presentation, really enjoy your quiet, no nonsense, informative style.
I owned one of these with the higher beat ETA 2824 movement and I flipped it. I regret doing that! My only con regarding this watch is that the case is polished. Not only does this make it a scratch magnet, it is not in line with it’s heritage as a proper field watch. Finally, this watch belongs on a leather strap. If I were on a budget and had to pick only one watch under $500 this would be it. If I was going to spend thousands for a one watch collection it would be a Rolex explorer 114270.
I sold my first Khaki field. I bought it on leather the first time around though so when I got it the second time I got it on the bracelet. Worked out in the end.
My hamilton khaki field really is the only watch I need. As a military history lover having a piece of history on my wrist has no price. Never understood the urge to own a different watch for every bloody thing. Pick up the one that represents you the most and stay loyal and faithful to it. A watch is a life companion, treat it as such.
I see this all the time.. To much people selling it pre owned. And always wanted one. But I can't made up my mind of buying it. But they say, Hamilton is such respected and good brand. But this coming August, in my birthday I am buying this. I hope I will not regret it.. Thx for the reviews and all of the infos about this watch.. ❤️ From Austria
Top quality review!! Been looking at purchasing this watch for a while and this detailed walk-through you've done has persuaded me to pull the trigger. Thanks.
I have the one with the earlier ETA 2824 movement...I bought it used and bonded with it straight away. So comfortable on the wrist it's ridiculous, keeps time within 5 seconds a day and the lume isn't as poor as some say, I can easily read the time during the night. Just a fantastic watch.
I think it’s one of the best watches I could buy. Even though I could afford for example a Tudor bb I feel like a higher priced watch isn’t better than this piece. I think a real upgrade from this watch isn’t until the pricepoint when you can buy a omega seamaster or a Rolex
I wore the blue dial version of this hami for 1.5 years every day. no regrets what soever, definitely get the bracelet its super comfortable and is really well made. It runs forever and you can put it off on Friday and on again on Monday no problem. The watch runs consistently at +4 seconds for me. if you are considering it, do it man.
As an owner of this fabulous watch, I can get behind this video. The only issue is, it's not a "do everything" watch because of the lack of water resistance. Where did you get the steel bracelet for it? Mine is still on the original leather straps.
@@JustBlueFish bought mine on these gorgeous leather straps. Would like a metal bracelet for versatility. Will have to check the Hamilton website to see if I can find it.
Search for a company called strapcode and consider the 20mm Angus-J Louis 316L Stainless Steel Watch Bracelet for Seiko Alpinist SARB017 (or Hamilton K.), Brushed, V-Clasp. I'll post a link if the site will allow it? Amazon sell them too $115 ish
@@RichardsModellingAdventures Excellent choice for those who didn't buy on bracelet ($30) more. If I was to buy the KF, I'd buy the bracelet, and just find a good quality leather strap of which there is no shortage. To change to a bracelet be it OEM or from Strapcode is going to cost north of $100.00. What's good about Strapcode is they use screws so super easy to size, and Long Island Watch discounts them.
Michael Paris arguably the strap code bracelet is actually better than the OEM bracelet. In my case I picked up my Hamilton in a sale so saved quite a bit buying it on the leather. This more than covered the cost of the strap code alternative 👍
i became a watch guy at 13 when i graduated 8th grade my grandmother got a Hamilton, graduated high school another Hamilton from grandma. she did get me a Rolex for graduating college though. lol but my Hamiltons are my favorite. bang for ur buck, u can't beat a Hamilton. thanks for the video
I always like your in-depth, well thought out reviews. The quality of audio, video and the music you choose: suberb. You tend to stay on the 'safe side': reviewing the big, well known brands. However, I sometimes wonder what you would think of a San Martin or a kickstarter project. Anyways: well done again.
Thanks for your insight. I like this question but man-oh-man is it hard to pick. I'd have to go with the following: Budget watch: Hamilton Khaki Field Automatic 42mm on a brown leather strap b/c you can swap the strap for a NATO-like version if you need to jump in a pool/lake. It's a watch that looks good enough on the wrist for a formal occasion as well as a more casual/day-to-day environment. No limit budget: Casio G-Shock MTG-B2000 (blue). It's a nice rugged watch on a black rubber strap that is sleek enough for formal occasions but built tough enough to withstand anything you throw at it, including yard work and jumping in the pool to play with my son, on top of the fact that I wouldn't fear wearing it like I would if I had an Omega Seamaster for example.
I have the 41 version, and it isa great in every way. Paired with a range of NATO straps to constantly change the look means it goes with anything and is simply my go to watch. I never worry about being mugged and it still feels premium. hands down, the definitive watch around £500.
Modern Mechanical watches are an engineering miracle. I wear mine daily and with the automatic feature keeps great time. I love not worrying that an rain or occasion water is repelled. I always take it off when I bath, or go swimming. So it should say dry for its life. These quality watches are repairable and could last for generations. =The apex of good engineering. .
I literally just posted on a watch site that I could live with one piece, and that watch would be my HKFA 38! Steel, leather, nylon, canvas...looks awesome on TONS of straps! Love my Hammy!!!
This watch is great! I was a bit bothered by the glary crystal (which, admittedly, I probably wouldn't have noticed if people didn't complain about it), so I had the crystal replaced by a sapphire with anti-reflective undercoating from CrystalTimes. Now, it's absolutely perfect! Mine runs well within COSC, and with the JB 'bonklip' bracelet it looks absolutely stunning. I think I'm going to unsubscribe from the watch channels now.
@@jipke is the watch still worth it? I have an opportunity to buy one after working today with a black leather strap + a bracelet for $400 - appreciate your response
@@albert333pool That's a steal, if it comes with the bracelet. You can't go wrong, it's a well-made watch by a respected Swiss brand, especially for that amount.
Thanks for the great video! I love my SARB033. that seems to be my most worn watch, so I would have to go with it. What bracelet do you have on your SARB? I noticed it wasn’t the stocked seiko bracelet?
I have both and love them, and between the two it was a tough choice. But I would pick the Hamilton over the sarb033 because I think it’s just a bit better in terms of quality (movement and bracelet) and I like the style a bit more. My sarb has a strap code oyster with polished centerlinks because the stock bracelet isn’t great and the clasp is pretty bad. Great upgrade.
I used to think my Rolex Explorer 39. But since I got a Tudor BB GMT, it’s the one. Full diver (200m), GMT travel functionality, classy enough for the office and a more modern presence/size (for my medium wrist size). I looked at a Khaki but it didn’t speak to me, great watch at a great price though.
I love it.. but the sapphire of mine has no AR Coating… That sucks…. 😅 because the black dial makes it like a mirror. But its so cool and classik i want keep it mine
The one watch that people will only need is an Orient Mako II. The styling, accuracy (mine averages +1.5 per day), durability, quality and very affordable price makes this watch hard to beat.
This is a great watch. Well proportioned, classic looking and nice robust and accurate movement with a very useful power reserve. The only major downside for me is this is a reflection magnet. I don't understand why Hamilton could not add some AR coating on the crystal, would have made the watch near perfect for the price.
I’ve owned this exact watch (w bracelet) for about 2 years and can easily see myself wearing it every day, so that would be my choice. If money were no object, a Rolex Explorer II.
I rarely need a dress watch; like twice a year, for a wedding, so my choice for under 500 would be my Orient Ray ii Raven, great watch despite all of the often-mentioned "shortcomings". Even though I'm not a fan of 40mm or over, but this is the time we live in. Another option would be Seiko SNK809 on a bracelet, now that's a versatile everyday watch. Unlimited budget: it's a tie between a Seiko 62MAS, which I think it's the best watch design ever (emphasis on "I THINK"), in a well worn but well preserved example OR a blue-dial vintage Rolex DateJust, like the Spanish Inquisition, nobody expects a small Rolex! Even a non-quickset-date, for a daily driver, that's a non-issue. Great content! Cheers!
Bought a Hamilton Khaki King 2 weeks ago and I have been loving it. I will replace it with a Sinn 104 in a year as my daily watch though. I like having the extra WR and rotating bezel.
Only watch under budget: CItizen Ecodrive Nighthawk AT4110. This was the only watch I wore 24/7 for almost 6 years. Sapphire crystal, solar-power, sync with atomic clock radio, 200m water-resistance, has chrono and alarm, solid links, milled clasp, knurled finish on crowns and bezel. Now, I'm exploring other budget watches.
Wearing this while watching the video. Feels really sleek and solid. It keeps time really well and I never really need to adjust anything or hand-wind it even though I don't really move my arm that much during the day.
Just got one on the brown leather strap yesterday. It's awesome. I realize I'm still in the honeymoon phase, but this could easily be my one watch collection.
I like this one, though it's not the Hamilton I'm looking for. I have a Seiko SNZG15 that handles my field watch wants, and it does everything this watch does (plus the addition of a day complication). It gains 5 seconds overnight on the nightstand, but when worn on the wrist all day it doesn't deviate a single second. I will grant it is nowhere near as refined as this Hamilton. It also doesn't have the 80 hour power reserve, but 80 hours power reserve is kind of a moot point if it's your only watch and you wear it daily. That said, I do like this Hamilton, but I want the Khaki Pilot Day Date that was featured in Interstellar. As for which watch I would want as my only watch if budget was no issue.... not sure I can answer that! Maybe an Omega Speedmaster Moon Watch, or a Seamaster 300m. Or maybe a Grand Seiko diver with a Spring Drive movement. I've been thinking recently of selling off a lot of my watches and paring down to a handful of truly loved watches, or to fund a grail purchase.
Just bought a Hamilton Khaki Field Auto with the leather band. I love it! My first automatic watch. I really love the dial and the sapphire crystal front and back. Truly a beautiful timepiece. Amazing watch!
I own the 38mm automatic Khaki. It gets more wrist time than my Rolex GMT Master II and Rolex Explorer. I love the look and I can wear it without concern for damage or theft.
Just purchased the Hamilton and I'm very happy with it. I totally agree with your conclusions and just love how Hamilton put all of these components together.
I own and love the Hamilton Khaki handwind, I’ve got a bracelet on order for it, and that could be my one watch collection if only it had better water resistance. I’d suggest the Sarb033 or 035 as the best one watch collections, the new Tissot Gentleman is a good option too, but falls outside that $500 price tag.
I bought the 38mm Hamilton Khaki Automatic but I git it with the brown leather strap. I wish I had gotten the bracelet. Is there an after market bracelet for this watch that you would recommend? - Thanks
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the red-tipped second hand is what made me get this watch. Its a pretty minor aesthetic choice but i think it really makes pop and have more character
Couldn’t agree more.
And I thought I was the only one getting this particular model over the mechanical version because of the red tipped seconds hand
@@deltamcrans +1
Same 👌
It’s amazing how such minute details can have such a profound effect in our perception of a watch. For me the curved ‘self winding’ on the Tudor Black Bay is just so killer.
Absolutely! I wore that watch for about 3 years straight. That’s one watch that’ll never leave my collection. I’ve got the 38mm version.
I have had Hamilton Khaki Field as my only watch for two years now. I will continue that way.
If it ain’t broke don’t fix it.
I've had one for 6 months, had a rolex op prior, prefer the Hamilton.
Coffee BOY CLIPS op is too dressy to be a one and only
I have not owned a Rolex but I would not be comfortable with it because I would be so worried that something would happen to it.
I think you should wear a watch which you can lose and not care about it. 500$ is no money for me. But if you want to be a Rolex wearer that sum should be $10000.
Poor people with Rolex is just ridicolous.
@Scott Jacobsen I'm not lying, I spend a lot of time doing outdoor activities, hence why I prefer the look and feel of the Hamilton. The OP is a brilliant watch but I find it sits between a dress and casual watch.
I own the Hammy on a brown leather strap, with the original ETA 2824 (~40 hr power reserve, higher beat rate of 28800). Bought as a gift to self for graduating college (2014). Still runs great today, brought it in to my watchmaker about a year ago and he regulated it and said the lubricants look fine and full service was not yet needed. Case has plenty of scratches from use, but the sapphire crystal looks the same as the day I got it. A real workhorse
I wore citizen eco-drive for about 13 years, they are accurate, easy, and come in a huge array of styles and sizes. They were the perfect watches to get me into watches more seriously.
I think an Aqua Terra would be the perfect one watch for me if money was no concern, enough style, water resistance, and quality to make me a happy man.
I have 6 good working order watches in total, otherwise this Kaki field watch must be my "one watch" selection. my daily beater is a cheapest watch in the group :it was a Citizen eco drive AW 1430-86e.
an ~$300 Citizen Promaster Tough would be a great "budget" go anywhere, do anything, one watch solution
Aqua terra is quite thick and heavy which I feel uncomfortable.
@@Mister_Phafanapolis Right with you on that one!
I actually agree with your pick. I have 16 watches in my collection, including a Rolex, but my Hamilton Khaki Auto on a bracelet seems to be more of a go-to than pretty much all of my other watches. It just works in a variety of situations: Working around the house, wearing it with a dress shirt and pants for my job, excerising at the gym. Probaby the only thing I wouldn't pair it with is a Tux
Not the best with hoody and joggers
In a few days, I will officially be retired. The company doesn't give watches but the tradition of a retirement watch has me with an excuse to buy. I've wanted a Hamilton for years, but it seemed like each model at one or more things that I didn't like. hen I happened upon this watch. I have an 8 inch wrist so 42 mm is in the sweet spot for me. This may just be my Hammy. Thanks!
Buy one on the bracelet you will not regret it.
Enjoy your retirement! I’m turning 30 in a month and will be getting this also :)
I totally agree with your choice. It is such a beautiful and versatile watch. The runner would be a Seiko Alpinist.
I would have to go for the Alpinist I just love that dial and the cool compass ring
I just ordered the sarb017... its so hard to come by cause its discontinued. But now i also want the hamilton king khaki
I just ordered this Hamilton and have looked forward to it for a long time for all of the reasons you’ve stated. I do own a Smiths Everest as well, as a recent addition to my collection ... and it has quickly become a favorite on my wrist (at under $500). I’m a huge fan of German watches, and although it’s far from the “if money was no object” category... my Sinn 104 is a great one-watch collection timepiece. My goal ... a Rolex Explorer (114270).
I could wear that Hammy every day as my only watch. It is a robust, no nonsense timekeeper with perfect dimensions and is a tremendous value. And it doesn't use faux patina like other Hamilton field watches.
People would never give it a second look. But I would know it was more special than a dollar amount.
--Michael
My one watch would be my modern 36mm Datejust. But I have an emotional connection and it was an irrational choice as it was the one watch my dad wore. It is too expensive for what I really need though.
A Seiko SARB033 would work for me just as well.
Thanks for watching and for sharing your picks.
If I had to chose one watch I think it would be the SKX. Obviously the movement is behind, the crystal is not sapphire, and no solid end-links. But as many people said, the SKX is more then the sum of its parts. And there is something about the uniqueness of its design that makes you smile.
Yuval Sheer, Guy more than once said that a Seiko is a hit or a miss. I have the SKX with a “hit” movement, and I guess you probably have one, too, so I certainly agree with you. Besides, is it not funny that the SKX seem to hold up value pretty well, even that it is discontinued, and there are so many good alternatives like the Orient etc. Cheers from Denmark the Stig
I think I'd have to go with my Seiko SARB033, only because it's a bit dressier/work-appropriate than my Hamilton Khaki Field. In a no limit world....probably a Grand Seiko Snowflake. But in a no limit world there's no way I'd have one watch.
The sarb033 is great but between the 2 I think the Hamilton is just a bit better in quality. Better movement and better bracelet and clasp.
@@JustBlueFish very true, I would say the sarb35 because I don't see any other watch in this catagory with a cream face, not sure about the champagne Khaki.
The SARB is more of a dress watch but the Hamilton is more versatile. Doesnt look out of place in a formal setting but also works well with casual attire. The movement in the Hamilton is also much better than any Seiko I've owned. That being said my next watch will either be a SARB033 or an Alpinist.
SARB033 for me, as that's how I actually used it for a while. I prefer indexes and SARB has a nice lume scheme. Bracelets I don't wear, so they are all equally worthless to me.
I'm Just Here for the Watches khaki still better with a great history dial case and retro feelings that seiko never had
Thanks for providing such detailed content. The amount of time you spend pulling this information together and setting the presentation is obvious
Great job as always. One watch if price is not a factor = GRAND SEIKO
Automatic GMT SBGM221 and One watch for under $500=Bulova 96B129 Precisionist .
I recently purged all my Watches Guy and started over my 1 watch I have now is my Cobra Yellow LE breitling Chronomat. I'm stopping at 3 total .
3 is a great number. Thanks for watching Eric.
Watch Once-over Cobra Yellow Breitlings are so good looking. I have my eye on the Cobra Yellow Seawolf.
You made an excellent case for the Hammy as a one watch collection. I agree with your assessment. In fact, a Hamilton Khaki Auto 38mm, exactly as you reviewed here, arrived in the mail at my house, TODAY. However, it is not for me... it is a graduation gift for my son. If I were to reduce to one watch, it would be at the top of the list.
your son is a lucky man, got it from his pop with great taste.
I have literally the only 3 watches I'll ever need. 1994 omega speedmaster professional, my skx009 picked up 3 years ago, and my g-shock gw7900b
Great selection.
Kenneth Mc nice watch collection.
No dress watch? Only sports watch?
@@jflas946 I wear my moonwatch as a dress watch all the time. Don't forget that Prince William got married wearing a Seamaster. With the right toolwatch there's no more need for a dress watch.
I have the 38mm..Absolutely love it, but 2 major gripes -
1 : the crystal reflects literally EVERYTHING around you.
2 : do NOT get it wet. I wore it to clean my fish tank, and condensation built up on the inside of the crystal. It disappeared after a couple of days, but still concerning for a watch labelled as 100m water resistant.
Otherwise, a great watch.
100m water resistant doesn't mean water proof to 100m, even spashing water on you watch has a curtain water pressure, that's what that 100m rating says, if you submerge you watch and move it around under water that exposes the watch to higher and higher water pressure, usually 100m still isn't enough to actually submerge yet. i wouldn't actually swim with anything under 200m rating
@@richieb74 Watch with 100m WR must be capable for surface swimming, that's written in variety of watch manuals, for example, Casio. I even used to swim wearing Seiko 5 with 50m WR, and nothing happened with it.
Wow, that intro was really well done! Found this waiting on my khaki to be delivered!
Thanks, appreciate it. Enjoy your new watch.
Just bought this watch today, to replace my Glycine combat 6 vintage. Really like the watch, especially for the price, not liking the bracelet though. I've got it on leather, but it'll be going straight on to a single pass one piece strap as soon as it arrives.
The intro is more exciting than the actual watch 😂 jokes aside that‘s a hell of a watch🔥
I have this Hamilton, silver dial with the red tip second hand. I will re-watched this video I’m sure multiple times to curve the craving to buy another watch.
Watching videos about watches you already own helps to stop purchasing more I find.
@@resjon7981 It helps of course if the video doesn't reveal a long a list of shortcomings. That would have the opposite effect.
Big thumbs up from me. I love this watch. It's prevented me buying more watches. Buy one..it saves you a fortune :)
That’s always a good thing!
Stoic Student hmm, not sure if I agree with you there mate. I have the Hamilton Khaki field mechanical, with brown dial and brown case now I want the black on black too.
Terry Newton haha 😆 ok it slows buying down a bit then maybe 😀
Stoic Student yeah true or maybe just stick to buying Hamiltons. Haha yeah that’s the go 🤪
I won this watch with a leather strap (by far my favourite of my collection)and I agree with your points. Moreover, this watch could be pure perfection if it had an anti-reflective coating, no date, a screw-down crown and 200m WR. just my opinion
200m is really unnecessary for a field watch
@@tariktaskin8289 for you yes
Never own a Hamilton but tempted to get the blue dial..only have one favorite watch now omega seamaster 300mm
My personal choice for best value $500 watch is the Orient Kamasu at about $350. What I'm actually setting my dollars aside for is a Sinn 756 Duochronograph. It ticks all the boxes. Also, at less the $2000 I won't be afraid to wear it in most scenarios.
No doubt very cool understated , and timeless ... looks great without shouting. A very sensitive choice for an affordable daily piece ..
Couldn't agree more!
Even with 100m water resistance, I think it still needs a screw down crown. It confuses me to see other watches with the same water resistance rating and they have screw down crowns. I have the mechanical version of this watch, less water rating, and it had to go back for servicing under warranty from just being splashed because it delevoped moisture inside. Super accurate after being serviced and. I love it. For a one watch collection, I'd feel better with a screw down crown. Great review!
Screw down crowns don’t matter too much for me. Most cheaper watches don’t include extra seals when screwing down the crown, it’s just a safety so you don’t inadvertently pull the crown out underwater.
The main reason behind screw down originally in diver to avoid accidentally operating the crown underwater. High water resistance does not entirely NEED a screw down crown.
I own a Seiko SARB033. Could be my one and only watch. I would love to have that Hamilton though.
My one and only timepiece under five hundred would be the seiko turtle SRP777. If money was not a problem my one timepiece would be a Rolex Air King.
Dustin Wray The SRP777 Turtle is awesome!
I have this model, great piece. I did have a problem with the rotor after a few weeks from new. The AD sent it back to Hamilton but as soon as I got it back the problem was still there so Hamilton replaced the movement, it been working spot on since I only wear it for about 2 weeks in rotation with my other pieces, but once a week I keep an eye on it.
Love this watch. Still my go to after several years, thanks.
Great to hear!
When I was first getting into watches I bought a champagne dial Khaki King. Later on after I had bought a Speedmaster and Polar Explorer 2, 42mm, I gave the Khaki King to my wife. As much as I love the two watches I have, I still missing wearing the Hamilton. It’s the most comfortable watch I’ve ever worn, the size is perfect, it sits very flat on the wrist, it’s such a great watch. If I ever have to sell my two luxury pieces for some reason , it’ll be the watch I go back to if I could only have one watch. If budget were not a factor, my dream watch is a datograph, though it may not have the versatility needed for a one watch collection. With that as a consideration, I’d probably go with a Batman on an Oyster bracelet.
I love the Khaki King.
2:29 Casio beep. Love it!! I actually thought it was mine
Thanks for the excellent review. I just got my Khaki Field 42mm and can confirm everything in this video as 100% true. It’s a beautiful, well made, very accurate piece on a great bracelet.
My watch collecting journey went through many stages, developed from luxury watches, primarily Rolex, to more practical, low key ones. I'm now down to 5 watches total: (1) a dress watch, (2) a diver, (3) a chrono, (4) a daily, and (5) an adventure watch.
If I could own only 1 watch, it would certainly be a field watch, around 39.5 to 42 mm in diameter. A Hamilton would be very high on the list of candidates indeed.
The Khaki Field Automatic 38mm is a no-brainer at its price point. Period! It's on the very top of my short term wish list and I hope to add it to my collection very soon. Think I would go for a Grand Seiko model from their Heritage collection. They're absolutely awesome and beautifully designed and executed at a price point that I think is fair... Or a Rolex Explorer... or... or... Damn, there are too many nice pieces out there....
King khaki is my daily, nice slim and good watch, and has kept good time
80 hour power reserve?! I had no idea. Still need to pick up a Hamilton someday. Nice production. I love your cut scene sequence!
Thanks Jeff!
I feel that the 80hrs reserve is overstated. Maybe more than 48hrs but not 80hrs
@@budoylanzon1852 maybe yours is the older model with ETA 2824? That one has listed power reserve of about 40 hours. Bcause mine with H10 movement definitely has power reserve close to 80 hours as tested.
Hamilton Khaki Field Quartz would be my pick. It’s reliable and has everything I want from a watch: accuracy, water resistance of at least 10atm, Sapphire Crystal, a date complication, reliability and I happen to like how it looks with its perfect 38mm :)
Hmm, a toughie, Under £500, Citizen Promaster Dive,r money no object, Omega Seamaster 300m. Outstanding presentation, really enjoy your quiet, no nonsense, informative style.
Think I need to count myself lucky, I've both of your choices. Can't fault the Promasters.
I owned one of these with the higher beat ETA 2824 movement and I flipped it. I regret doing that! My only con regarding this watch is that the case is polished. Not only does this make it a scratch magnet, it is not in line with it’s heritage as a proper field watch. Finally, this watch belongs on a leather strap. If I were on a budget and had to pick only one watch under $500 this would be it. If I was going to spend thousands for a one watch collection it would be a Rolex explorer 114270.
I sold my first Khaki field. I bought it on leather the first time around though so when I got it the second time I got it on the bracelet. Worked out in the end.
My hamilton khaki field really is the only watch I need. As a military history lover having a piece of history on my wrist has no price. Never understood the urge to own a different watch for every bloody thing. Pick up the one that represents you the most and stay loyal and faithful to it. A watch is a life companion, treat it as such.
Agree, I ended up selling my other watches as this little hamilton fits all occasions.
I see this all the time.. To much people selling it pre owned. And always wanted one. But I can't made up my mind of buying it. But they say, Hamilton is such respected and good brand. But this coming August, in my birthday I am buying this. I hope I will not regret it.. Thx for the reviews and all of the infos about this watch.. ❤️ From Austria
In 1981 my parents gave me a Hamilton Khaki Field Watch. It still works well even though it has never been serviced.
I have got this watch a week ago and I see it will be my everyday watch in the coming years. It's elegant and robust and a watch with a story.
Top quality review!! Been looking at purchasing this watch for a while and this detailed walk-through you've done has persuaded me to pull the trigger. Thanks.
Thanks, glad you found it useful.
The H-10 movement is great, my Khaki Field runs constant at +2s/day
I just got this in the mail two hours ago and I love it. Could use some more micro adjustments tho
Take it to a local jeweler and have them drill an extra hole or two in the clasp. That's what I did.
I have the one with the earlier ETA 2824 movement...I bought it used and bonded with it straight away. So comfortable on the wrist it's ridiculous, keeps time within 5 seconds a day and the lume isn't as poor as some say, I can easily read the time during the night. Just a fantastic watch.
This is the review that pushed me over the edge and led me to my “impulse” purchase. I’ve been wearing it almost everyday since I bought it.
I take it you're enjoying it then!
@@JustBlueFish I definitely am!
I agree with your choice. I have the same but 42mm. Over 500 would be the Zenith El Primero chrono.
Great topic, Guy!
Good choice!
00:11 perfect line-up !!
I put the Khaki next to the Citizen pro 'Tough' and the Citizen won out IMHO.
Good to here, I have one on the way.
I think it’s one of the best watches I could buy.
Even though I could afford for example a Tudor bb I feel like a higher priced watch isn’t better than this piece. I think a real upgrade from this watch isn’t until the pricepoint when you can buy a omega seamaster or a Rolex
My only watch has been my Patek 5296g. So robust, great everyday wear, and it just makes me feel like I’m King.
Nice, I'd like to have one of those or maybe a 5196 with the small seconds.
I’ve been looking through probably hundreds of watches and this one is for sure at the top of my list
I wore the blue dial version of this hami for 1.5 years every day. no regrets what soever, definitely get the bracelet its super comfortable and is really well made. It runs forever and you can put it off on Friday and on again on Monday no problem. The watch runs consistently at +4 seconds for me. if you are considering it, do it man.
Haven’t watched the channel in a while. I like the new format. And the watch. Thanks for the review.
Thanks for the feedback, and for watching.
You sold it to me. Just ordered the 42mm with brown leather strap. It's gorgeous. Thanks for the review.
As an owner of this fabulous watch, I can get behind this video. The only issue is, it's not a "do everything" watch because of the lack of water resistance.
Where did you get the steel bracelet for it? Mine is still on the original leather straps.
They sell it on a bracelet, it came with the watch.
@@JustBlueFish bought mine on these gorgeous leather straps. Would like a metal bracelet for versatility. Will have to check the Hamilton website to see if I can find it.
Search for a company called strapcode and consider the 20mm Angus-J Louis 316L Stainless Steel Watch Bracelet for Seiko Alpinist SARB017 (or Hamilton K.), Brushed, V-Clasp. I'll post a link if the site will allow it? Amazon sell them too $115 ish
@@RichardsModellingAdventures Excellent choice for those who didn't buy on bracelet ($30) more. If I was to buy the KF, I'd buy the bracelet, and just find a good quality leather strap of which there is no shortage. To change to a bracelet be it OEM or from Strapcode is going to cost north of $100.00. What's good about Strapcode is they use screws so super easy to size, and Long Island Watch discounts them.
Michael Paris arguably the strap code bracelet is actually better than the OEM bracelet. In my case I picked up my Hamilton in a sale so saved quite a bit buying it on the leather. This more than covered the cost of the strap code alternative 👍
I like that Hamilton a lot! I enjoy my Citizen Promaster Tough, I'd probably pick this one.
The Hamilton Khaki Field Automatic 38mm watch is the best watch in the world!
i became a watch guy at 13 when i graduated 8th grade my grandmother got a Hamilton, graduated high school another Hamilton from grandma. she did get me a Rolex for graduating college though. lol but my Hamiltons are my favorite. bang for ur buck, u can't beat a Hamilton. thanks for the video
I always like your in-depth, well thought out reviews. The quality of audio, video and the music you choose: suberb. You tend to stay on the 'safe side': reviewing the big, well known brands. However, I sometimes wonder what you would think of a San Martin or a kickstarter project. Anyways: well done again.
Great production, sound and visuals are perfect.
Hamilton without a doubt, I'm wearing one right now which has a golden dial 40mm size.
Very accurate timepiece.
And I'm loving it every moment.
Thanks for your insight. I like this question but man-oh-man is it hard to pick. I'd have to go with the following:
Budget watch: Hamilton Khaki Field Automatic 42mm on a brown leather strap b/c you can swap the strap for a NATO-like version if you need to jump in a pool/lake. It's a watch that looks good enough on the wrist for a formal occasion as well as a more casual/day-to-day environment.
No limit budget: Casio G-Shock MTG-B2000 (blue). It's a nice rugged watch on a black rubber strap that is sleek enough for formal occasions but built tough enough to withstand anything you throw at it, including yard work and jumping in the pool to play with my son, on top of the fact that I wouldn't fear wearing it like I would if I had an Omega Seamaster for example.
I have the 41 version, and it isa great in every way. Paired with a range of NATO straps to constantly change the look means it goes with anything and is simply my go to watch. I never worry about being mugged and it still feels premium. hands down, the definitive watch around £500.
Love the intro music. Heavenly.
My favorite watch in my collection. I find it on my wrist more often than many of my more expensive pieces
Modern Mechanical watches are an engineering miracle. I wear mine daily and with the automatic feature keeps great time. I love not worrying that an rain or occasion water is repelled. I always take it off when I bath, or go swimming. So it should say dry for its life. These quality watches are repairable and could last for generations. =The apex of good engineering. .
I have never regretted buying this watch. I love it so much 3 years later.
you have been upping your videos lately. Very nice video work, and the tone of your voice is better as well. Congrats!
I literally just posted on a watch site that I could live with one piece, and that watch would be my HKFA 38!
Steel, leather, nylon, canvas...looks awesome on TONS of straps!
Love my Hammy!!!
This watch is great! I was a bit bothered by the glary crystal (which, admittedly, I probably wouldn't have noticed if people didn't complain about it), so I had the crystal replaced by a sapphire with anti-reflective undercoating from CrystalTimes. Now, it's absolutely perfect! Mine runs well within COSC, and with the JB 'bonklip' bracelet it looks absolutely stunning. I think I'm going to unsubscribe from the watch channels now.
Crystal times? What's the part # please...
@@albert333pool They're no longer available, so it will be of no use.
@@jipke is the watch still worth it? I have an opportunity to buy one after working today with a black leather strap + a bracelet for $400 - appreciate your response
@@albert333pool That's a steal, if it comes with the bracelet. You can't go wrong, it's a well-made watch by a respected Swiss brand, especially for that amount.
Thanks for the great video! I love my SARB033. that seems to be my most worn watch, so I would have to go with it.
What bracelet do you have on your SARB? I noticed it wasn’t the stocked seiko bracelet?
I have both and love them, and between the two it was a tough choice. But I would pick the Hamilton over the sarb033 because I think it’s just a bit better in terms of quality (movement and bracelet) and I like the style a bit more. My sarb has a strap code oyster with polished centerlinks because the stock bracelet isn’t great and the clasp is pretty bad. Great upgrade.
I used to think my Rolex Explorer 39. But since I got a Tudor BB GMT, it’s the one. Full diver (200m), GMT travel functionality, classy enough for the office and a more modern presence/size (for my medium wrist size). I looked at a Khaki but it didn’t speak to me, great watch at a great price though.
Great choice, Tudor is a great watch and high value.
I hope they bring out a BB58 GMT. Prob won't be able to get near one for a year or two but would def me next on my life.
I love it.. but the sapphire of mine has no AR Coating… That sucks…. 😅 because the black dial makes it like a mirror. But its so cool and classik i want keep it mine
The one watch that people will only need is an Orient Mako II. The styling, accuracy (mine averages +1.5 per day), durability, quality and very affordable price makes this watch hard to beat.
This is a great watch. Well proportioned, classic looking and nice robust and accurate movement with a very useful power reserve. The only major downside for me is this is a reflection magnet. I don't understand why Hamilton could not add some AR coating on the crystal, would have made the watch near perfect for the price.
I’ve owned this exact watch (w bracelet) for about 2 years and can easily see myself wearing it every day, so that would be my choice. If money were no object, a Rolex Explorer II.
I rarely need a dress watch; like twice a year, for a wedding, so my choice for under 500 would be my Orient Ray ii Raven, great watch despite all of the often-mentioned "shortcomings". Even though I'm not a fan of 40mm or over, but this is the time we live in. Another option would be Seiko SNK809 on a bracelet, now that's a versatile everyday watch.
Unlimited budget: it's a tie between a Seiko 62MAS, which I think it's the best watch design ever (emphasis on "I THINK"), in a well worn but well preserved example OR a blue-dial vintage Rolex DateJust, like the Spanish Inquisition, nobody expects a small Rolex! Even a non-quickset-date, for a daily driver, that's a non-issue.
Great content!
Cheers!
I have a khaki king, and I love it. It’s that one watch. The dial is so nice, both this black one and the Champagne
I just ordered one of these yesterday. I chose this over the Alpinist because of the accuracy and the possibility of better quality.
Bought a Hamilton Khaki King 2 weeks ago and I have been loving it. I will replace it with a Sinn 104 in a year as my daily watch though. I like having the extra WR and rotating bezel.
Only watch under budget: CItizen Ecodrive Nighthawk AT4110. This was the only watch I wore 24/7 for almost 6 years. Sapphire crystal, solar-power, sync with atomic clock radio, 200m water-resistance, has chrono and alarm, solid links, milled clasp, knurled finish on crowns and bezel. Now, I'm exploring other budget watches.
Wearing this while watching the video. Feels really sleek and solid. It keeps time really well and I never really need to adjust anything or hand-wind it even though I don't really move my arm that much during the day.
Just got one on the brown leather strap yesterday. It's awesome. I realize I'm still in the honeymoon phase, but this could easily be my one watch collection.
I like this one, though it's not the Hamilton I'm looking for. I have a Seiko SNZG15 that handles my field watch wants, and it does everything this watch does (plus the addition of a day complication). It gains 5 seconds overnight on the nightstand, but when worn on the wrist all day it doesn't deviate a single second. I will grant it is nowhere near as refined as this Hamilton. It also doesn't have the 80 hour power reserve, but 80 hours power reserve is kind of a moot point if it's your only watch and you wear it daily.
That said, I do like this Hamilton, but I want the Khaki Pilot Day Date that was featured in Interstellar.
As for which watch I would want as my only watch if budget was no issue.... not sure I can answer that! Maybe an Omega Speedmaster Moon Watch, or a Seamaster 300m. Or maybe a Grand Seiko diver with a Spring Drive movement.
I've been thinking recently of selling off a lot of my watches and paring down to a handful of truly loved watches, or to fund a grail purchase.
One of your most well done videos! I loved this
Thank you so much!
The dexter inspired music is epic dude!
Thanks Dex
Just bought a Hamilton Khaki Field Auto with the leather band. I love it! My first automatic watch. I really love the dial and the sapphire crystal front and back. Truly a beautiful timepiece. Amazing watch!
You’re very good at these videos. Thank you for sharing!
Thinking of adding the 42 mm version of this as a third watch to my Samurai Save the Ocean and Presage SRPB69J1.
I own the 38mm automatic Khaki. It gets more wrist time than my Rolex GMT Master II and Rolex Explorer. I love the look and I can wear it without concern for damage or theft.
Just purchased the Hamilton and I'm very happy with it. I totally agree with your conclusions and just love how Hamilton put all of these components together.
I own and love the Hamilton Khaki handwind, I’ve got a bracelet on order for it, and that could be my one watch collection if only it had better water resistance. I’d suggest the Sarb033 or 035 as the best one watch collections, the new Tissot Gentleman is a good option too, but falls outside that $500 price tag.
Thanks for watching buddy and great picks.
I don't know about the Forensic Files intro. But interesting points.
Everyday watch:
Hamilton Jazzmaster Day Date
No budget watch:
Omega Globemaster
I bought the 38mm Hamilton Khaki Automatic but I git it with the brown leather strap. I wish I had gotten the bracelet. Is there an after market bracelet for this watch that you would recommend? - Thanks
I don't know of an aftermarket bracelet. I'd just call swatch group and order the OEM bracelet.
You can get a strapcode bracelet for the sarb017. It will fit perfectly. Try checking on Ebay
*My only watch pick would be: CASIO OCEANUS OCW-S100-1AJF.*
Saaaame! I was about to comment that too but you already did! It's perfect and covers every detail and feature!