Cheaper than the Alpina, more useful too
By Dave Kowalski, Chicago ยท
I keep comparing this to the Alpina Startimer because they're aimed at the same guy. Same pilot vibe, black dial, big numerals, leather strap. But the Hamilton is 42 mm instead of 44, 11.4 mm thick, and it's got the H-30 automatic with a day-date and 80 hours of reserve. That's more than double the Alpina's 38.
100 m water resistance, sapphire, display back, 22 mm lugs. Basically everything you need.
What I don't love: the day-date windows add a bit of clutter to what should be a clean pilot dial. And on leather, 42 mm can wear a little top-heavy. Throw it on a bracelet or a NATO and it settles down.
$895 to $995. Fair price. Not a steal. But compared to what else is in this lane with a Swiss name, it's the one I'd actually buy.