Since the introduction of a refreshed Hamilton Khaki Field Mechanical back in 2018, Hamilton has pushed a ton of different models on watch collectors with real success. The Khaki Field line really is one of the best budget-minded collections new enthusiasts can turn to when diving into the hobby. Now, Hamilton takes things up a notch by revamping the Khaki Field Automatic Chronograph with the newer look and feel of the Khaki Field Mechanical. This brings us to the new Hamilton Khaki Field Automatic Chronograph—a badass military-style chrono with a fully sand-blasted case on a bund strap.
Even though Hamilton already had a “Khaki Field Auto Chrono” in circulation, it looks like this newer model is aligning itself with a design that has been way more of a hit with the brand. For starters you have that utilitarian dial design but with raised markers and numerals reminiscent of the Khaki Field Mechanical. Paired with a cool 7750 chrono layout, bright Super-LumiNova, and the added functionality of a chrono, this watch takes the new Khaki line to new heights and could pull in enthusiasts that were looking for something a little more complex.
The watch overall measures 44mm in diameter and is a bit of a chonker at 14.15mm thick. Still, that isn’t as bad as some other 7750 chronographs and from the looks of it this watch doesn’t suffer from a high-dome crystal. It’s just flat sapphire with an anti-reflective coating. Water resistance is 100m and the nubuck leather bund strap has a 22mm width at the lugs. It should be no surprise that I find the strap to be this watch’s worst quality but I’m sure getting this on a NATO would clean up the look a little bit.
In terms of the movement, Hamilton went with the trusty H-21 Automatic. It’s a version of the ETA/Valjoux 7750 and in the case of this Hamilton Khaki Field Automatic Chronograph, features no date to keep the dial looking nice and clean. Definitely grateful for that, seeing as how that would take away from the 3D effect of the raised numerals/markers and the recessed sub-dials. The 25 jewel H-21 beats at 28,800vph (4Hz) and has a 60-hour power reserve.
So while I do find this to be a solid release from Hamilton the question I have in my mind really centers around the competition. Even though pricing is a little higher, the 103 and 356 series watches from Sinn seem slightly more compelling if you’re willing to spend a little more. Those are the watches that came to mind, but the military/pilot-themed 7750 chrono landscape is huge. Knowing this, I think it was good for Hamilton to keep pricing at CHF 1,695—around $1,800 USD at the moment. What are your thoughts? Do you think collectors with a deep love for the Khaki Mechanical line would also spring for this kind of update?
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Michael Peñate is an American writer, photographer, and podcaster based in Seattle, Washington. His work typically focuses on the passage of time and the tools we use to connect with that very journey. From aviation to music and travel, his interests span a multitude of disciplines that often intersect with the world of watches – and the obsessive culture behind collecting them.
Looks awesome. If I had $1,800 laying around I’d grab one. That strap is pretty damn ugly IMO. Belongs on a NATO or ZULU for sure.
I really want to see the dial in person. It really photographs well.
I agree with you regarding the bund strap and at first it put me off, but i think the green does work well. I wonder if just removing the bund pad would look like compared to a NATO. I worry a NATO would make the watch top heavy.
I also want to thank you for not making a quip about the case diameter being to big. It’s become a lazy watch review trope for any watch over 40mm.
Totally agree with your comments.
I do like it, it’s a really clean looking chrono. The bund strap would need to go, but the regular strap seems to be a nice match. I’m sure it’s a quality watch, but it just seems a bit basic for the price. Nothing wrong with a 7750 or the case size. Perhaps it’s just that the overall finishing doesn’t offer anything eye catching. Maybe that’s the point!
Saw this in the wild at the NYC Windup Watch Fair. It’s big, but works for my 7.5″ wrist. The dial is amazing up close. The photos really come close but in person it is really nice. It is pretty thick, but no more so than the other Hamilton Chronos.
The bund strap is actually better looking in real life. My issue was the same issue I have with most strapped watches. The length is too short and needs to be lengthened since I could only barely connect the strap at the last available holes on the strap. The strap is also the Hamilton “H” type buckle tongue in case you don’t like that style as well.
Looks nice but with no date it would be a no go for me.
I much prefer my old khaki chrono with copper dial and day/date with telemeter scale.