Hamilton, the movie watch
Fernando AldeaTaking a suggestion from a LOFT fan, we'll explore a topic as close to our hearts as a good watch on our wrist: Hamilton and his almost symbiotic relationship with cinema. Why does Hamilton appear in so many films? Is it pure chance, true love, or well-crafted placement? Let's find out.
The connection between Hamilton and Hollywood
Since its beginnings in Lancaster, USA, in 1892, Hamilton has had a story worthy of a movie. Originally an American brand, today it's part of the Swiss giant Swatch Group. But beyond its corporate history, what truly draws our attention is its presence on the big screen. Hamilton has achieved what many brands dream of: becoming a movie star.
This love affair between Hamilton and Hollywood began decades ago, with Elvis Presley sporting his iconic Hamilton Ventura in "Blue Hawaii" (1961). Since then, the brand has appeared in more films than a supporting actor with a permanent contract. And we're not just talking about fleeting appearances, but watches that have played key roles in the plot, as we'll see later.
Elvis, the Men in Black and Beyond
Let's first talk about the Hamilton Ventura, that triangular watch that defies conventional design logic. This watch was not only ahead of its time in terms of design, but it also became an icon thanks to Elvis Presley. Coincidence? We don't think so. Elvis loved his Ventura, and thus began Hamilton's love affair with cinema.
The Ventura resurfaced in the "Men in Black" saga, where both Will Smith and Tommy Lee Jones wore it on their wrists. This is where we start to wonder: Is this a well-made placement or simply a watch that fits perfectly into the retro-futuristic aesthetic of secret agents? Whatever it is, it worked. And while the updated version of the Ventura hasn't been to everyone's liking, we can't deny its place in cinematic history.
From the skies to the stars: Pearl Harbor and Interstellar
Let's continue with "Pearl Harbor" (2001), where Ben Affleck and Josh Hartnett's characters wear the Hamilton Khaki Field, a military watch that fits perfectly into the World War II setting. Here, the watch isn't just an accessory, but a piece of historical authenticity. But let's not kid ourselves, at this point, the placement is starting to smell like well-orchestrated marketing.
And then we come to "Interstellar" (2014). Here, Hamilton showed off two models: the Khaki Pilot Day Date and the now-famous Murph, a watch that didn't even exist before the film. The Murph has become a phenomenon, with a legion of fans who consider it a collector's item. There's no doubt about it: this was a total placement, but one that worked perfectly, as the watch is crucial to the film's plot.
From dinosaurs to spies: Jurassic World and Tenet
We can't forget "Jurassic World" (2015), where Chris Pratt wears a Hamilton Khaki Field Auto Chrono while handling dinosaurs like puppies. This watch reinforces Pratt's image as the scientific adventurer we all aspire to be. Was this an intentional marketing ploy or simply the perfect watch for the occasion? We'll let you judge.
Finally, we come to "Tenet" (2020), where the protagonist, John David Washington, wears the Khaki Navy BeLOWZERO, a watch Hamilton created specifically for the film. And yes, it's ugly, but it fits perfectly with the sci-fi, spy atmosphere Nolan wanted to convey. Another successful placement (I'm also getting bored of that word) for the brand.
Does Hamilton have substance or is it just marketing?
So, what does Hamilton have that other brands don't? It may not be the biggest seller, but its presence in cinema is undeniable. Are we talking about a brand with substance or just a well-made publicity stunt? In our opinion, Hamilton has its thing. Its watches offer excellent value and have established a special place in the watch world.
The "H" has proven that it's possible to be the king of the big screen without being the biggest seller. With watches like the Ventura, the Khaki Field, and the Murph, the brand has left an indelible mark on cinematic history. So, if you're a lover of movies and watches, look no further. Hamilton has everything you need to shine, both on your wrist and on the big screen.