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Thanks for visiting my vintage Hamilton watch blog. I like to restore US-made Hamilton wrist watches back to their original glory and share my experiences with other enthusiasts. Use the "Search" space below if you know what model you're looking for. Feel free to leave polite comments or questions in the spaces provided. Also check out my "watches for sale" on my Etsy site - the link is on the right, just below.

Sunday, August 5, 2012

1950 Steeldon CLD

In 1950 Hamilton added a stainless steel model to it's CLD ("sealed") line up.  The Steeldon was produced for only three years and ran until 1952.  Several new CLD models were introduced in 1953.

The Steeldon featured a central sweep second hand, powered by Hamilton's 18 jewel, 8/0 sized 748 movement.  Being in the CLD line, the watch featured several levels of gaskets that sealed the two-piece case as well as the stem and crown.


Two different dial patterns were available, the Rhodium-plated, solid 18K gold numerals on a sterling silver dial, or luminous numerals on a silver dial (with luminous hands to match).

Being stainless steel, the Steeldon is a rugged little watch and the only part that seems to wear is the glass crystal.  Replacing the crystal is about the only thing needed when you're lucky enough to find a vintage Steeldon.




5 comments:

  1. I have an old Steeldon that I believe dates back to 1947 or 48. It is the model with the luminous numbers and hands. It is all original, except for the band and I had to replace the crown stem. It runs very well.I serviced it a few months ago. My father was also a watchmaker, and I found it in an old cigar box of odds and ends watches that he had. It probably sat for 30 of 40 years in that box before I decided to fix it up.

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  2. Hi again. Could you help me date my Steeldon? On the back of the case the number is:
    S182002
    On the movement the number is: CY47716
    I tried to look it up but it only says from 1948-1954
    Thanks!---Ted

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  3. Hi Dan.
    By any chance, would you happen to have an extra second hand for the Steeldon I could purchase?
    (the Rhodium-plated, 18K gold numerals one)
    Thanks.---Ted

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    Replies
    1. Nope but if you look in the parts manual posted you can get the part number and call around... Jules Borel, Barton & Chase, Casker, et al.

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  4. Hi, I was wondering how hard it is to find the Hamilton steel don't on Ebay

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