1982 Hamilton Khaki MIL-W-46374B

THE WATCH

Up for sale is one of the most iconic U.S. military issue watches of the late 20th century. Built to meet the strict MIL-W-46374 specifications, this 1982 example reflects Hamilton's long standing tradition of supplying timepieces to American forces, a legacy dating back to World War II. Lightweight, reliable, and designed for maximum clarity in any condition, this was standard issue for soldiers who needed absolute precision in the field. The 33mm sandblasted stainless steel case is in great shape for its age, still rugged yet still very wearable. The case back proudly displays its military provenance with government markings, including parts number, year, and radiation warning to let wearers know the dial contains tritium. True to spec, the lugs are fixed for extra security, ensuring spring bars wouldn't fail during wartime use. The original crown winds smoothly. The original acrylic crystal has a small nick at the ten o'clock and just below the five o'clock marker, but visibility is unaffected and the rest of the crystal is clean and free of scratches. The matte black dial is in immaculate condition for its age and features the "H3" marking, indicating the presence of tritium lume on the dial and hands. Tritium lume was a critical feature at the time, ensuring maximum legibility in low light conditions. The lume has aged beautifully to a creamy yellow, showing even patina and no visible cracking. The dial includes both 12-hour and 24-hour military time. The hour, minute, and seconds hand are all original and remain in great shape. Powering the watch is the reliable hand wound Hamilton caliber 649, based on the ETA 2750. This movement includes hacking seconds, allowing soldiers to synchronize time down to the second, an essential feature at the time for combat operations. It comes on what appears to be the original olive drab Nato strap, correct for the period and increasingly rare to find intact.

SPECS

Brand: Hamilton

Reference: Hamilton Khaki Field MIL-W-46374B

Movement: Hamilton caliber 649 (ETA 2750 base), hand wind, hacking

Year: 1982

Condition: Pre-owned

Case Material: Stainless Steel

Dial: Black

Case Diameter: 33mm

Lug to Lug: 40.6mm

Case Thickness: 11.2mm

Lug Width: 18mm

Crystal: Acrylic

Water Resistance: N/A

Strap: Original and rare Olive drab Nato strap

Box & Papers: No

THOUGHTS

In my opinion, this is more than just a watch, it's a piece of military history you can wear every day. The Hamilton Khaki Field MIL-W is prized for its authenticity, durability, and straightforward design that has influenced modern field watches for decades. Much like its younger sibling, the modern Hamilton Khaki Field Mechanical, this vintage model brings undeniable charm in a slightly smaller package, featuring a beautiful tritium dial and authentic military markings. Collectors value it not only for its provenance, but also for the connection it provides. Just knowing this was originally issued to an actual service member adds a level of depth you just don't find in most watches. These iconic vintage "Hammy" field watches are continually sought after as collectors value genuine military issued timepieces with an incredible history. When it comes to military authenticity, it doesn't get more real than a government issued tool built for its intended purpose in warfare. Personally, I'm especially fond of the 1980's MIL-W models as you can still find some of these in good condition, yet they carry all the heritage and history that makes them so special. This example is even more desirable due to its original olive drab Nato strap, a rare detail that completes the package. Whether you're drawn to its military heritage, rugged charm, or timeless functionality, the Hamilton Khaki Field MIL-W perfectly embodies the spirit of a true military tool watch!