1953 Cranston

Introduced in 1953, the Hamilton Cranston was produced for only two years.  It's very similar to some other period models, like the Boulton, except the Cranston is a little bigger, or wider anyway.

The Cranston features Hamilton's newly introduced 19 jewel, 12/0 sized 753 movement.  The 753 replaced the 19 jewel 14/0 sized 982 movement.  Some 982 models that were made in 1953 became "B" varieties... like the Boulton B for example.

The Cranston also offers a beefy 10K gold filled case with lots of angles.  Back in my Navy days I would have described it as "stealthy".  It also has an 18mm lug width so it accommodates a substantial-looking strap too.

The dial is sterling silver with solid 18K gold numerals and markers.  The numeral / marker dial is one of the best clues to identify a Cranston from other similar shaped models.

I recently picked up a Cranston at one of my favorite local jewelers.  It came on a garden-variety Spiedel expansion bracelet so I was happy to remove that and outfit it with a nice genuine lizard strap.  After a thorough cleaning, it's running as great as it looks!