Hamilton Howard

Hamilton purchased the trademarks of the E. Howard Watch Co. in 1931, and produced three runs of Howard wristwatches in 1942 (serial numbers 001 to 075), 1946 to 1947 (serial numbers 076 to 600), and 1948 to 1949 (serial numbers 601 to 1075) to protect the trademarks. The first run of these watches was sold in a variety of obsolete solid gold Hamilton cases, and then the second run was sold in a Hamilton Stanford case with Howard-marked dials, Howard-marked movements, and Howard-marked cases. However, it appears the final run from 1948 to 1949 reverted to Hamilton-marked dials and unusual hybrid movements with the Howard serial number, winding wheels, and unique Howard fine-line damaskeeing pattern, but marked Hamilton instead of Howard. The cases were still marked for Howard. I believe these watches in the final run were Hamilton's way of using up leftover Howard cases and movements to make complete Hamilton watches for sale, as externally, the watches appear to be regular Hamilton models. This example is in crisp, near mint condition with no brassing. Caseback is superb and unengraved, with a tiny bit of wear at the opening tab. The case measures 39mm long and 23mm wide. Refinished inlaid enamel dial is superb, has solid 18K gold numerals. Has new glass crystal. The watch is powered by its correct 17-jewel Hamilton Howard H980 manual wind movement, just serviced and running strong.