[F]Hamilton PSR 74: Pulsar cushion re-released

The trend of re-releasing vintage digital watches continues with the new Hamilton PSR 74. Over the past few years, Casio, Girard-Perregaux, and Hamilton have led the way with faithful, modern recreations of their 70s digital creations. These watches combine simple displays with retro-futuristic cases and bracelets. The new PSR follows this shape, but adds wearability.

In 2020, Hamilton reflected on his digital history with PSR. This watch is inspired by the legendary Pulsar from 1970. Roger Moore wore a similar model, the P2 2900, in the 1973 James Bond film, Till Death Die. That was a big deal! Since 2020, Hamilton has introduced several colorways to the 40.8mm x 34.7mm watch. A smaller and slightly different version, the PSR 74, is currently available.

Hamilton PSR 74

The new PSR takes inspiration from the 1974 second generation Pulsar cushion. It features an integrated bracelet that tapers to a butterfly folding clasp and fits like a bangle. Additionally, the case size remains unchanged from the original, measuring 30.9mm wide and 25.6mm long. It’s also only 12.4mm thick. This watch is available in brushed stainless steel or yellow gold PVD. Also rated for 100m depth.

More functionality

The original model had a single button, but the PSR 74 has buttons on both sides of the case. This allows the wearer to see the date and time at the same time. You can also display the time in 24-hour format if you prefer. Hamilton has kept the original pixelated digital display and upgraded it with modern technology that combines LCD and OLED. Finally, this watch features a sapphire crystal.

analog touch

Interestingly, the PSR 74 features a traditional screw-down caseback. It is decorated with space-inspired images, presumably showing the orbits of planets around the sun. It has an H-40e quartz movement inside and has a battery life of 3-5 years.

final thoughts

The Hamilton PSR 74 is a cool release and I love the fact that it’s more wearable. I tried the original PSR, but it was too big and bulky for someone with small wrists like me. This looks like the perfect retro companion, but with modern reliability and practicality. The stainless steel model retails for 795 euros and the PVD model costs 895 euros. That’s in line with Hamilton’s pricing and I think it’s fair. What do you think about these retro digital releases? Would you like to add them to your collection?