Vantage 'Chronograph I' Oversized Panda c.1970
Vantage 'Chronograph I' Oversized Panda c.1970
A pure, unadulterated, oversized “panda” dial in all but mint condition. We could probably just stop there…
Vantage was a Hamilton Watch Co. sub-brand in the late 1960’s and ‘70s that sold quality watches just under Hamilton’s flagship American watches. With the tumultuous environment of the decade, Hamilton bought and used Standard Time Corporation as a movement producer during this time, which explains the Standard Time signed caliber 448 (Landeron 248 base) inside. These were interesting watches that came about within 10 years of Hamilton shutting down its American production facilities and ownership changing hands overseas. What is so unique is the solid stainless steel case and the comparatively massive oversized case and dial, which was not the norm for non-bezel, non-chunky (as you’d see in the following years) chronographs of the period.
If you’re looking for a monochromatic eye-catcher with still wonderfully pleasant light yellow lume and chronograph functionality, this one is it. Don’t pass it up!
Movement: Standard Time Corp. 448 (Landeron 248, 17 jewels, 18000bph)
Case: Solid stainless steel
Powered: Handwind chronograph
Case Width: 37.2mm (40mm incl. crown)
Case Length: 43mm
Lug Width: 19mm
Crystal: Acrylic crystal
Function - This watch winds by hand, rotating the crown clockwise to begin powering the watch. The chronograph function is initiated after winding by pressing the top pusher to start the timing, pressing the bottom pusher to stop, and pressing the bottom pusher again to reset the chronograph.
[All vintage watches are expected to function as described. However, due to age and generally unknown service history (unless otherwise stated), these watches may not keep time as accurately as new or quartz (battery) watches. This is completely normal and does not indicate that there is a major problem. Like your automobile, all mechanical watches will likely need to be serviced at some point in time. Please keep this in mind, as there is no guarantee regarding when these vintage watches may need standard maintenance. Every watch sold by Buying On Time is done so with the expectation that it is not currently in need of service or repair, unless noted. We guarantee that all watches sold are accurately described and in the stated condition when they leave our hands.]