Introduction: Originally introduced in 1957 as the world’s inaugural electric wristwatch, the Hamilton Ventura has always stood as a symbol of innovation in both movement and design. This iconic timepiece was a personal favorite of the legendary Elvis Presley, who showcased it in his musical Blue Hawaii. Now, in 2024, Hamilton unveils the latest iteration of the Ventura, drawing inspiration from Elvis’s hit single “Blue Suede Shoes.”
Design and Variants: The new Hamilton Ventura “Blue Suede Shoes” collection comprises six models, with four being time-only watches and two featuring chronographs. All watches boast Swiss quartz movements, stainless steel construction, and captivating blue gradient sunray dials. The design pays homage to Elvis’s style, with three models featuring blue Alcantara leather straps and the remaining three adorned with matching stretch-link bracelets. Two time-only models showcase a luxurious gold PVD finish, echoing Elvis’s timeless elegance.
Specifications: The time-only Ventura models measure 32.3mm in diameter, 9.27mm thick, with 17mm lugs and a lug-to-lug profile of 50.3mm. With mineral glass crystals and solid casebacks secured by three small screws, these watches offer water resistance up to 50 meters. Powered by the ETA Caliber F05.115 Swiss quartz movement, they include an end-of-life indicator for timely battery replacements.
Chronograph Excellence: The two Ventura Chrono Quartz models share the same polished stainless steel cases, measuring 32.3mm in diameter, 10.87mm thick, with 17mm lugs and a lug-to-lug profile of 50.3mm. Featuring a three-register layout with a date window, these chronographs are powered by the ETA Caliber 251.474 Swiss quartz chronograph movement, offering precision with 23 jewels and an end-of-life indicator.
Pricing and Availability: The Ventura “Blue Suede Shoes” collection caters to diverse preferences, with prices ranging from $975 for the time-only stainless steel models to $1,095 for the chronographs. Notably, the pricing remains consistent, whether opting for the blue Alcantara leather strap or the matching stretch-link bracelet. While some collectors may desire mechanical movements, the battery-operated design stays true to the Ventura’s 1950s heritage, providing an accessible entry point to this iconic lineup.
Conclusion: Hamilton’s Ventura “Blue Suede Shoes” collection elegantly fuses the brand’s rich history with the timeless allure of Elvis Presley’s iconic style. These watches stand not only as functional timepieces but also as wearable tributes to an era of innovation and artistic expression.