Fergus Nash
The latest edition of the Hamilton Jazzmaster Skeleton has been redesigned to better embrace the calibre H-10-SIt's available in 40mm or 36mm configurationsThe H-10-S boasts an 80-hour power reserve and some nice decorationThe Hamilton Jazzmaster is a bit of an outlier within their catalogue. It's not famous like the Murph or Ventura, and it's not full of vintage ruggedness like the Khaki Field Mechanical. While sharp lines and a bit of new-world snazziness seems to underline its design language, the Jazzmaster almost seems to be a bit of a catch-all for Hamilton's most versatile developments. The latest addition to the range happens to be the Hamilton Jazzmaster Skeleton Auto, updated from the previous model released in 2020 to include a fresh dial shape and 36mm options.Skeletonised watches usually look extremely complex, however the Jazzmaster Skeleton's new dial balances its elements quite well. It's easy to picture the complete vertically brushed dial while reading the time, and the cut-out areas just serve as impressive accents. As with the previous iteration, the Jazzmaster Skeleton is designed to show off its calibre H-10-S. But, whereas the old model just cut out some windows to peer in at the movement, this new arrangement flows almost organically around the movement's features. The balance wheel and mainspring barrel in particular are highlighted by the circular windows, with bridges that curve and shoot off to complete the structure. The needle-like sharpness of the hands and applied hour markers are legible and stylish, but don't get in the way of the mesmerising skeleton display.The 40mm case of the new Hamilton Jazzmaster Skeleton is the same as before, with a size that feels modern but still comfortable. The large sweep and slight shoulders of the lugs give it a slight sense of ornateness, which contributes to the dressy side of its versatility. At 11mm thick it should still fit under a cuff when the occasion arises, and it can handle some run-ins with water given the 50m water resistance. There are two dial options which have fairly differing personalities, with the navy blue dial feeling rather traditional, and the silver dial with rose gold details offering a more refined touch. The silver version comes with a green leather strap, while the blue version offers the choice between brown leather and a steel engineer-style bracelet. If you like to experiment with aftermarket straps, the 20mm lug width will be welcome news. Additionally, a 36mm version has been introduced with plum and pale rose dial options. It’s slightly thinner at 10.55mm tall, and is equally able to take all kinds of straps with an 18mm lug width. The plum dial can be had on a steel bracelet or a pink leather strap, while the rose dial is only available on plum leather.Circling back to the H-10-S, the Hamilton Jazzmaster Skeleton shows off its movement from the front as well as the back. The exhibition caseback shows off the winding rotor, and you can also see how the Hamilton H-10 movement has been modified for skeletonised display. Based on the Powermatic 80 that it shares with many other Swatch Group sibling brands, it boasts an 80-hour power reserve with a 3Hz beat rate and reliable performance.Hamilton Jazzmaster Skeleton pricing and availabilityThe new versions of the Hamilton Jazzmaster Skeleton are now available from the Time+Tide Shop. Price: A$1,925 (36mm with strap), A$2,075 (36mm with bracelet), A$2,075 (40mm with strap), A$2,200 (40mm with bracelet)BrandHamiltonModelJazzmaster SkeletonCase Dimensions40mm (D) x 11mm (T) 36mm (D) x 10.55mm (T)Case MaterialStainless steelWater Resistance50 metresCrystal(s)SapphireDialSilver, blue, plum, pale roseStrapLeather strap or steel braceletMovementH-10-S, skeletonised Powermatic 80 base, automaticPower Reserve80 hoursFunctionsHours, minutes, secondsAvailabilityNowPriceA$1,925 (36mm with strap)A$2,075 (36mm with bracelet)A$2,075 (40mm with strap)A$2,200 (40mm with bracelet)
15.08.23