In 1957, Hamilton Watch Co. took the world by storm by offering the world's first ever electric wristwatch. Ten years in development, the watch was one of the greatest technological innovations in horology. Proclaimed as "the first basic change in portable timekeeping in nearly 500 years", the Hamilton Electric became an icon of the late 1950's and 60's.

Today's offering showcases this classic all-original Hamilton "Electronic" Polaris II watch. Watches like this were the predecessors to today's quartz watches. The Polaris II is much scarcer than the original Polaris, with an estimated production of only about 1000 pieces.

Reminiscent of iconic American designs from the period such as Cadillac fin and the fine works of visionary Richard Arbib, this striking design-forward watch illustrates the qualities that have made these beautiful pieces sought after by men with a distinguished sense of personal taste and style - it looks like it would have fit in well on one of the characters of "Mad Men."

It features a striking avant-garde case and silver dial with wonderful vintage styled markers with a cartouche at 12.

Pictured in Rene Rondeau's book "The Watch Of The Future" on page 152, it was released in February of 1965 with an original price of $150.00, not a small sum at the time.

Powered by a revolutionary electromechanical movement, the caliber 505, that replaced the power of the mainspring and winding mechanism with that of a battery, this incredible watch achieved unprecedented levels of accuracy. The movement retained many mechanical components from the era such as a balance staff and wheel; and with the addition of a battery, it not only became more accurate than its counterparts, but also never needed to be wound.

We were fortunate to acquire our uncommon Polaris II in all-original condition. Its case is in excellent condition. Its untouched original dial shows only light aging.

One of our watchmakers has installed a new battery and performed any needed servicing on the movement, which is keeping time well.

For the finishing touch we have equipped it with a brand new genuine crocodile strap making it ready for immediate enjoyment.

Included with the purchase is a one-year international warranty on the movement and its function and a custom printed Connoisseur of Time Certificate of Authenticity.

• Manufacturer: Hamilton Watch Co.
• Country of Origin: USA
• Year built: c. 1965
• Functions: Hours, Minutes, Sweep Seconds (Electric Time)
• Model: Polaris II
• Designed for: Men
• Case material: 14K gold
• Case condition: Excellent with light wear
• Dimensions: 30mm wide (excluding crown), 37mm long lug tip-to-tip
• Dial: Signed Hamilton & Electric, silver, applied vintage styled gold applique markers, 12 in black in a gold cartouche, original and untouched
• Hands: Original, faceted "dauphines", red seconds hand
• Movement: Original Hamilton Electric "Model 505", electro mechanically driven balance, very high quality, rhodium plated and decorated
• Band: Crocodile, fully stitched, padded, brand new and unworn
• Crystal: Acrylic, original, excellent condition
• Serviced: One of our watchmakers has installed a new battery and performed any needed servicing on the movement, which is keeping time well.
• Timing: Timed to precision on a state-of-the-art computerized system.
• Warranty: 1-year international warranty. Please email concierge@cotwatches.com for details. 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.
• Box/Papers: BOX - Connoisseur of Time watch presentation box; PAPERS - Custom printed Connoisseur of Time Certificate of Authenticity
• Returns: 7 days full refund. 100% satisfaction guarantee

We offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee for all of our watches. If you are in any way unsatisfied with the watch we will fully refund the purchase price anytime within 7 days after the watch has been received. Our goal is to exceed our client's expectations throughout the buying experience.

All watches are packaged carefully and mailed double boxed in specially constructed, reinforced shipping boxes designed for high value items. All watches are sent fully insured with signature required. Most of our domestic shipping is done through FedEx. At times we will also use USPS Express Mail, and we can accommodate most requests for your preferred carrier. International shipments are sent USPS International Express Mail or FedEx.

The purchase price will be the declared value of the merchandise on any required customs forms. The payment of all customs duties, tariffs, and taxes are the responsibility of the buyer.

Also note that water resistance of vintage watches can no longer be guaranteed and is not covered under the watch's warranty. We do not recommend getting a vintage watch wet, even one that was originally designed to be waterproof.

To get an idea of how this watch will look on the wrist, please use the Watch Sizing Guide