Beautiful, Scarce Hamilton Watch Co. Model 21 Maritime Commission Chronometer

Description

10/28/26 - This is a beautiful example of a scarce U.S. Maritime Commission chronometer manufactured by Hamilton Watch Co. in Lancaster, PA around 1940. Since the invention of the chronometer in 1761, they have been used for navigational purposes due to their precision and reliability. The accuracy to within seconds helped ensure marine vessels were kept on course and safe for hundreds of years. Hamilton Watch Company has been one of the most recognized American watch brands, beginning their manufacturing of pocket watches as early as 1892. Their portfolio includes a variety of watches and clocks, from high end models notably worn by Elvis to the WWII military issued "Khaki" watches. Before moving their production to Switzerland in 1969, they fulfilled numerous contracts, like this one for the U.S. Maritime Commission. This example features a clean silver dial marked clearly with the "Hamilton" name, as well as the "Lancaster, PA, U.S.A." manufacturing location, and finally bears the "2E10737" serial number just above the "U.S. Maritime Commission" designation. The chronometer is fitted in a beautiful brass gimbal with smooth and unobstructed movement in every direction. On the inside of the wooden enclosure is a locking arm to prevent unwanted gimbal movement when not in use, and an area for the original tipsy key, which is also present in this example. The bottom interior of the case bears a Hamilton Watch Co. plaque, and there is a "Cork as shown before shipping" plaque just above the chronometer but below the top layer viewing glass. Both openings on this case have secure and functional hardware including the hinges, the fasteners, and the overswing brackets. The handles on each side of this case are secure and move without much resistance. This wooden case shows some surface scratches and blemishes, but no structural damage and the corners bear brass fittings to protect them from damage. This box is transported in a larger, felt lined wooden box which is also present with this particular example. This case is in excellent condition with very minimal wear on the lining. The exterior of the box shoes a few surface level scratches, primarily on the top, though these have not jeopardized the structural or functional integrity of the box. The front of the box bears a nice brass "Hamilton Watch Co." plaque, positioned just above the front swing arm fastener and tightening latch. The left and right side have leather straps fastened to the box to ensure it remains properly sealed during transport. Overall this is a beautiful example of a rare Hamilton Watch chronometer for the U.S. Maritime Commission.