Born from the need for a watch rugged enough to survive the rigors of a polo match without damage, the Reverso embodies form in the service of function. Using Alred Chauvot's groundbreaking reversible case design, Hamilton offered the watch only in their 1938, 1939, and 1940 catalogs.
In their catalog, Hamilton printed this about the Otis: "Exclusively Hamilton, this smartly designed strap watch ingeniously fulfills its double duty in a practical foolproof manner. Slight pressure from the side, a flip of the finger - and the watch locks firmly into reversed position."
Desipte the claim of "exclusively Hamilton," the patent rights to produce watches with the historically important Chauvot design were also claimed by JLC, so production of the Otis lasted only three years.
Our Otis has all original parts down to the dial, hands, and winding crown. The black Breguet numeral dial appears to have had a previously very nicely done restoration. It was given on Christmas Day, 1940. Accompanying it is a period Hamilton bakelite box.
Our watchmaker has freshly cleaned and oiled the movement. The case flips well, and stays in place perfectly when wearing as well.
Included with the purchase is a one-year C.O.T. warranty on the movement and its function, a custom printed Connoisseur of Time Certificate of Authenticity, and a new timing certificate.
Hamilton Watch Co.:
The Hamilton Watch Co., America's most iconic vintage watch firm, built treasured timepieces that are still cherished by many today. During their peak years, which lasted from the 30's into the 60's, the Pennsylvania establishment developed a reputation for innovation and quality, creating some of the finest American made wristwatches.
- Manufacturer: Hamilton
- Country of origin: United States
- Serial no.: J95820
- Year sold: Christmas Day, 1940
- Model: Otis
- Case material: 14K gold filled
- Case markings (under the movement case): U.S. Pat. 1,930,416, Hamilton Watch Co., Lancaster, PA., 14K Gold Filled, S&W, and inside of the movement case Hamilton W. Co., Lancaster, PA., 14K Gold Filled, 413276
- Case markings (outside): Wilbur from Mary - Dec. 25, 1940 - L.W.M.
- Case condition: Pleasing original condition with slivers of gold wear on the inside edge of the lugs
- Crown: Gold, original
- Dial: Black with gilt printing, signed Hamilton, peripheral seconds, outer minute track, appears to have had a previously very nicely done restoration
- Dimensions: 24mm wide (without crown), 40mm long lug tip-to-tip
- Hands: Original, gold "lances"
- Movement type: Hamilton Grade 982
- Movement markings: Hamilton, U.S.A, 17 Jewels, 982
- Beat frequency: 18,000 BPH
- Band: Teju lizard, fully stitched, padded, brand new and unworn
- Crystal: Mineral glass, excellent condition
- Serviced: Yes, freshly cleaned and oiled.
- Timing: Timed to precision on a state-of-the-art computerized system. Your watch is important to us, and we will take care of it for its lifetime. We provide the best after sale care in the business with an experienced team of watchmakers both of whom each have over forty years of experience and a large number of parts.
- Warranty: 1-year warranty. Please email [email protected] for details.
- Box/Papers: BOX - Period Hamilton bakelite box; PAPERS - Custom printed Connoisseur of Time Certificate of Authenticity; New timing certificate
- Returns: 7 days full refund. 100% satisfaction guarantee
