Hamilton's Khaki Field collection has long been the go-to choice for watch enthusiasts who love a rugged, versatile timepiece. Known for its outdoorsy style, legible dials, and reliable movements, the Khaki Field line offers a variety of sizes and calibers, from quartz to automatic to hand-wound. This year, Hamilton introduces an exciting addition to the Mechanical lineup: the Khaki Field Mechanical Power Reserve, featuring a 40mm case and a practical power reserve indicator that looks like a fuel gauge. Let's take a closer look.
Filling the Perfect Size Gap
Before this release, the Khaki Field Mechanical was only offered in 38mm or 42mm sizes, leaving a noticeable gap for those who prefer a case in between. The new 40mm sandblasted stainless steel case perfectly fills this void. Its slightly more rounded lugs give it a softer, wearable appearance while maintaining the collection's rugged aesthetic. Unlike some other Khaki Field models, the lugs do not have drilled holes, giving the watch a cleaner look.
One standout feature of all Khaki Field Mechanical watches is the large crown, and the 40mm version continues this tradition. It makes winding and setting the watch effortless, whether you're in the field or at your desk.
The H-23 Movement and Power Reserve Mechanism
At the heart of this new Khaki Field is the Hamilton H-23, a hand-wound movement developed by ETA. What makes this watch unique is the power reserve complication, which provides a clear, practical indication of how much energy remains in the mainspring. The movement offers an 80-hour power reserve, giving the watch substantial autonomy.
The power reserve system uses a friction-driven differential mechanism, ensuring smooth operation. Inside the barrel, a slipping spring prevents desynchronization between the power reserve hand and the actual state of the mainspring. This clever design also means the crown does not encounter a hard stop at full wind, making winding smoother and safer for the movement.
Choice of Dials: Black or White
The Khaki Field Mechanical Power Reserve comes in two dial options: black or white, both featuring a matte finish. The dial maintains the signature Khaki Field numerals, all 24 hours, ensuring excellent legibility.
The white dial has black hands and printing for high contrast.
The black dial has white hands and markings.
Both versions incorporate Old Radium Super-LumiNova on the hands and indices, making the watch readable in low-light conditions.
The power reserve indicator sits at 9 o'clock, with a red “F” for full and a red “E” for empty, reminiscent of a car fuel gauge. This adds a playful yet functional element to the dial. At 12 o'clock, the Hamilton logo is displayed, and at 6 o'clock, the dial shows text indicating the full power reserve.
On the Wrist: Comfort Meets Practicality
With a 47.5mm lug-to-lug distance and well-rounded lugs, the 40mm case wears comfortably even on smaller wrists. It strikes a perfect balance between presence and comfort.
The watch pairs beautifully with Hamilton's green NATO strap with brown leather accents, emphasizing the Khaki Field's outdoor-ready character. For those who prefer metal bracelets, the Oyster-style stainless steel bracelet with sandblasted finish and quick-release spring bars is another excellent option.
Why the Power Reserve Complication Matters
For many, a power reserve indicator might seem unnecessary. However, on a hand-wound watch, it adds practical value and enhances the functional character of the watch. The H-23 movement ensures that you don't need to worry about forgetting to wind the watch in the morning. The red “F” and “E” markings mimic a fuel gauge, offering a fun, intuitive visual cue. While I personally might have preferred a contrasting color for “F”, the dial remains balanced and readable as it is.
Final Thoughts
The new Hamilton Khaki Field Mechanical Power Reserve is priced at €915 on the NATO strap and €995 on the stainless steel bracelet. This makes it slightly more expensive than the smaller 38mm and larger 42mm Mechanical versions, but the added complication and mid-sized case justify the price.
The Hamilton Khaki Field Mechanical Power Reserve strikes a perfect balance between rugged field watch aesthetics and practical complications. The 40mm case fills a gap in the Khaki Field lineup, offering comfort and presence on the wrist. The power reserve indicator is both functional and visually engaging, while the H-23 movement provides a solid 80-hour reserve, making this watch reliable for everyday wear.
Whether you're a long-time Hamilton fan or a new mechanical watch enthusiast, this latest Khaki Field Mechanical offers practicality, style, and a touch of playful innovation in a mid-sized case. It's a watch ready for adventure, with enough character to be noticed on the wrist.
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