This June, Hamilton added two more colorways to its hit Khaki Field Mechanical collection. Jorg covered the release on Fratello, but in the meantime I had the chance to go hands-on with the white and blue models. Consider this a quick follow-up to his profile article.
What does this new Hamilton Khaki Field look and feel like in person? What does it feel like to wear on a daily basis? And what does the color actually look like? This article will answer all these questions as best as we can. Let’s take a closer look!
Hamilton Khaki Field Mechanical 38mm
First, a quick review of the watch we’re looking at. The Hamilton Khaki Field Mechanical 38mm is a very popular hand-wound field watch. It’s part of a comprehensive family of models that come in a variety of sizes, different movements, and different colors. This is the smaller version at 38mm wide, but it’s quite large when worn. Subjectively, I would estimate it to be around 40mm. This is mainly due to its simple design, with a large dial and narrow bezel, which is long at 47mm lug-to-lug.
Inside is the Caliber H-50, a Hamilton-exclusive hand-wound ETA C07.701 with an 80-hour power reserve. These calibers have laser-controlled balance, meaning they cannot be adjusted by a watchmaker. This version runs at 21,600 BPH and is driven by a central seconds hand.
The case measures sleek at 38mm wide, 47mm long, and 9.5mm thick. On top is a slightly domed sapphire crystal. The case is closed with a screw-down back. The crown is push-in and manually winds in the neutral position. The whole package is water resistant to 50 meters.
Hamilton Khaki Field Mechanical 38mm: First Impressions
To be honest, I don’t have much experience with the Hamilton Khaki Field Mechanical 38mm. I’ve had a little exposure to a few versions but never owned one. However, it is one of those entry-level watches. Many watch enthusiasts cite either this watch or the Seiko SKX as their first mechanical watch. Naturally, I wanted to spend more time with the Hamilton and see what all the hype is about.
When I got my hands on the two new versions, the first word that came to mind was “spartan.” These are clearly bare-bones watches, and that’s a good thing. In true military-based field watch style, the design is simple and functional: a large, easy-to-read dial with a 24-hour display within the regular time track, a fully bead-blasted case, an oversized crown, and simple syringe-style hands. No frills anywhere.
I think this is why so many people like this watch. Hamilton stuck to the basics and got it right. The design is true to the field watches used in the 60s, 70s and beyond. In this sense, it is one of the few classic designs available at an entry-level price point.
Wearing a Hamilton Khaki Field Mechanical 38mm
As mentioned before, the Hamilton Khaki Field Mechanical 38mm wears large given its diameter. However, it suits the watch very well. It was very comfortable on my 17.5cm wrist. For reference, the image shows the watch on Jorg’s 18.5cm wrist. It is relatively long at 47mm lug to lug, which gives it a confident look. The thinness and curvaceous shape of the case further enhance the wearing comfort, as does the nylon strap.
Speaking of straps, I thought this one was a nice take on the NATO strap theme. It’s a bit short and covered with a leather tip. It sits nicely on the outside of your wrist and doesn’t have to fold over like a longer NATO strap. The loops that fold over on the outside of your wrist can be overwhelming on a NATO strap paired with a thin watch. No such issue here.
On the subjective issue of color
All of the above applies to any model of the Hamilton Khaki Field Mechanical 38mm. The novelty of these watches is the color of the dial. So what does it look like in real life? Let’s start with the white dial version. In fact, this dial color is not new at all. The only difference from the existing white dial is that the lume does not have an artificial patina. As a result, the dial is very white. I like how clean it is and how easy it is to read. However, depending on the light, it can look a little cheap. This can happen with pure white dials, even if they are very expensive.
Another new dial version comes in a very distinctive shade of blue: a soft, imperial blue reminiscent of denim blue. Frankly, I would have liked to see this model without the fake, dated look. The powder beige combination feels a bit unnatural and artificial. It’s no wonder that many people fall in love with the blue dial, but I think many will quickly tire of it. In this sense, the white dial is a more timeless choice.
I write this with some trepidation, since this is a very subjective issue. In the end, all that matters is your personal assessment. Regardless of what you think, additional options to choose from are always welcome.
Hamilton Khaki Field Mechanical 38mm Summary
I really like these watches. They’re basic, to the point, and very comfortable on the wrist. Are they the height of sophistication? No, but that’s not what they’re trying to be. Unfortunately, 625 euros is a small price to pay in today’s watch market. It’s what you get for a basic watch.
Still, what else could you want from a classic field watch? The Hamilton Khaki Field Mechanical 38mm stays true to the values of old-school military field watches. If you want something flashy or upscale, look elsewhere. In that sense, the Khaki Field is exactly what it sounds like.
It’s easy to see why the Khaki Field is the choice of so many enthusiasts. It feels like an honest, unpretentious watch. It has everything you need and nothing you don’t. New colors add variety to an already impressive collection, which is always a good thing. Now you just have to decide which one is your favorite!
What do you think about the new Hamilton Khaki Field Mechanical 38mm (White and Blue)? Let us know in the comments below.
