SOLD - Rare Hamilton Rutledge Solid Platinum Tank in Original Condition Very Rare

SKU: rut-001
$3,500.00
$2,800.00
$2,800.00
Unavailable
per item
The Hamilton Rutledge is one of the most elusive Hamilton watches in the ranks of the Spur and the Flintridge.  According to Faber and Unger (American Wristwatches: Five Decades of Style and Design), “fewer than 10 examples [of 18K or platinum cases] exist of different models by Hamilton, Elgin, Gruen, and Waltham.” There are very few platinum watches made by Hamilton; and most of them had diamond dials only as options.  Even cases in 18k gold are extremely rare and Platinum was produced in much smaller numbers.  The Rutledge was first introduced in 1935 and stayed in production for a long time for Hamilton standards until 1952 when replaced by the Cambridge.  The original asking price was $175 - a king's fortune during the great depression.  This was a very expensive watch made to appeal to the very wealthy; hence the low production numbers.  Although it was worth every penny with being platinum and Hamilton's best movement, caliber 982 medallion. The earlier versions had a standard 982. Because this is mid-run it likely just made it in time for the incredible upgrades.  The dial and hands are elegantly curved 2-piece L&W case in Platinum & 10% Iridium measures approximately 36mm long x 22mm wide (not including the recessed crown) and about 7mm at full crystal height, a beautifully proportioned rectangular dress watch. The hard platinum case shows some previous polish and there are some minor scratches/swirlies to the case and back but the angles and edges are still crisp and the downward sloping lugs are strong. By my strict standards, I rate this case as solidly excellent vintage condition. The snap-in case back is correctly hallmarked for platinum-iridium content, has the case makers signature and serial numbers.  The original factory-printed silver dial with applied 18k white gold gothic numerals is excellent condition for being original and absolutely gorgeous, with only minor blemishes from over 65+ years of life.  The original white gold dagger hands are sharp and original.  The watch has been well cared for and in a dry temperature controlled environment.  This is important as so many are found in basements and attics which can cause more problems in the future.  The correct unsigned knurled crown winds and pulls out to the time-setting position as it should and sits flush to the side of the case. This watch originally came with a 19mm grey strap.  Today we are offering it with a replacement vintage black crocodile strap.  This is a great collector piece in great working order and keeping time as expected of a watch of this age - recently overhauled. Many other examples found have more common cathedral hands.  Upon inspection, this does appear to be an original non-refinished dial.  I've shown adverts in my pics for both versions.  The dagger hands are much less common and frankly look better in my humble opinion.  Overall, near mint and a pristine part of a perfect collection; or just a watch that's awesome you want to wear that actually has history behind it.

Edit: All applied numerals and hands were 18k yellow gold and then plated with Rhodium.  
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