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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.

Monday, October 29, 2012

1953 Haddon CLD

I recently picked up a Hamilton Haddon as a project watch. I had a Haddon a long time ago and sold it. But I'm a sucker for an old Hamilton in need of tender loving care, so I bought another one.

The Haddon CLD was part of the second generation of CLD (sealed) watches.  It's quite a bit larger than the first generation Langdon - which is the closest comparison.  It was produced for only two years and two different dial arrangements were available; either a AGN dial or a luminous marker dial.


The Haddon has a two piece case with a pop-off front bezel and a case back with integrated lugs.  Like most CLD models, the Haddon's 8/0 sized 747 movement is held in the case back and is pulled out the front when the bezel is popped off.  It uses a two-piece stem, since there's no access to the back of the movement while it's in the case.

I have found that many of these 2nd generation CLD's typically wear okay and any wear through you're likely to find will be on the reverse, near the crown.  I don't know why that is but I bet it occurs at least half the time.

As received, my Haddon was in typical shape.  It was quite dirty but nothing a thorough cleaning wouldn't take care of.

I'm not sure if the bracelet on it is original to the watch.  It could be or maybe it's just a very close likeness.  I usually put straps on my watches but I kind of like the way this one looks with it's bracelet... original or not.


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