Hamilton Ardmore "Registered Edition" 6268 (2000)

Offered in this auction by Second Vintage This exceptional Hamilton timepiece represents a unique intersection of horological heritage and corporate history. A "Registered Edition" based on the legendary Ardmore design, this specific example was commissioned to commemorate the 5th Anniversary of the DaimlerChrysler Group in Japan in the year 2000. It combines the sophisticated Art Deco aesthetics of Hamilton's golden era with the precision of a high-grade Swiss quartz movement, presented in a condition that suggests it has been treasured as a collector's piece since its production. Brand: Hamilton Model: Ardmore "Registered Edition" Reference Number: 6268 Movement: Quartz Dial: Silver Art Deco Case Size: 25 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Gold Plated / Stainless Steel Production Year: 2000 Condition: Near-mint condition Dial and Hands The dial is a stunning display of Art Deco design featuring a vertically brushed silver finish that catches the light beautifully. It is adorned with stylized "exploded" Roman numeral hour markers in a striking copper-tone framed by black, which adds depth and character to the face. A polished rectangular sub-seconds track sits at the six o'clock position, adding technical interest and vintage charm. The gold-tone leaf-style hands are pristine and provide excellent contrast against the silver background. Case and Crystal The rectangular case is finished in rich gold plating and features the classic double-stepped sides that define the Ardmore silhouette. The case measures 25mm in width, making it a classic unisex dress size. The caseback is stainless steel and features a crisp, deep engraving detailing its provenance: "2000 5th Anniversary with DaimlerChrysler Group in Japan," alongside the Hamilton coat of arms and reference number 6268. The crystal is clear and free of distracting marks, preserving the perfect view of the dial. Movement Powering this timepiece is the high-grade Swiss ETA 980.163 quartz caliber. Unlike standard quartz movements, this is a jeweled movement boasting 15 jewels, indicating a higher standard of construction and longevity. The movement is clean, free of corrosion, and offers reliable vintage performance. Strap The watch is fitted with its original Hamilton-signed brown leather strap featuring a lizard-grain texture. The inner lining is stamped "Hamilton" and "U.S.A.," confirming its authenticity. It is paired with a matching gold-tone pin buckle that complements the case finish perfectly. Condition This timepiece is in near-mint condition. The dial is flawless with no signs of aging or spotting. The gold-plated case retains its original luster with no plating loss and only microscopic handling marks visible upon close inspection. The engravings on the caseback remain sharp and legible. Dimensions The case width is 25 mm excluding the crown, with a lug-to-lug length that sits elegantly on the wrist, typical of the classic rectangular dress watches of the mid-20th-century revival. Remarks This watch is a rare find for collectors of both Hamilton memorabilia and automotive history. The "Registered Edition" series was Hamilton's high-quality tribute to their own 1930s archives, and finding one with this specific DaimlerChrysler Japan provenance in such untouched condition is highly unusual. History Hamilton was founded in Lancaster, Pennsylvania in 1892 and became known as the "Watch of Railroad Accuracy." By the 1930s, they were producing some of the finest Art Deco wristwatches in the world. The brand later moved its operations to Switzerland. This 6268 reference is part of a nostalgic era where Hamilton re-released their most iconic designs, ensuring the Art Deco spirit lived on for a new generation. /Second Vintage SKU: HAM-HXX-0002