Two variants of the Hamilton 900

[Dr. Jon]

These two Hamilton 900's have different styles of jeweling on the mainspring, on in a gold boss and the other with gold inset into steel.

Large gold boss version (http://members.ispwest.com/jlweber/gold.jpg)

and

Steel and gold jeweled version (http://members.ispwest.com/jlweber/steelgold.jpg)

Are tehere common names for this and are these both origibnal configurations. I have seen both variants.

[Dr. Jon]

These two Hamilton 900's have different styles of jeweling on the mainspring, on in a gold boss and the other with gold inset into steel.

Large gold boss version (http://members.ispwest.com/jlweber/gold.jpg)

and

Steel and gold jeweled version (http://members.ispwest.com/jlweber/steelgold.jpg)

Are tehere common names for this and are these both origibnal configurations. I have seen both variants.

[Jerry Treiman]

Good observation, Jon. I never noticed the difference before. I see that I also have a movement without the steel washer, and it is also from the first run. Also like yours, mine does not have the grade number on it. However, the lowest numbered gr.900 movement (7,500,001 which sold earlier this year) is like the later ones, with a grade number and steel washer, so I am not sure one could say that it is characteristic of the first run.

[terry hall]

I have also seen this variation on the early Hamilton 16s 950 movements...

[Tom McIntyre]

Both of my unmarked 900's on my web site have the large setting with no washer. I also have a 902, 904 and 922MP that have no washer. I can't find my 918 right now to check it. My 920 on the web site has the washer.

The parts appear to be interchangeable, so we may need for Don to find a note in the finishing department to figure out what happened and why.

[pocwatjim]

Terry,
I haven't seen an example of a 950 with the first illustration. I have seen this on a 952 several times and have talked to other collectors about it and have owned several examples.

If we can analyze the difference in the serial numbers for 12 size and 16 size we are most likely talking about the same date. I feel that this was a transition problem and only was used for a short time.

The material catalog does not show any difference when ordering a barrel jewel. You would be in trouble if you had the first version and ordered a MS barrel jewel!

[John Cote]

All I know is that these little high grade Hammies are some of the pretties and best watches going...not to mention that, for the quality, they are way under-priced.

Just my opinion...and I think I have been wrong before. :wink:

Happy/Healthy New Year to all.