The Watches of Rover Haven, Part 2
Myron Erickson
When Hamilton announced a reimagined British military chronograph at Basel 2013 I knew I had to have one, being such a fan of the original RAF 6BB watch. I picked up a black dialed Pilot Pioneer Auto Chrono with blasted case but it didn't last long with me for a variety of reasons. Two years went by and I hadn't lost interest in the watch, so this time I thought I'd try the ivory dial with polished and brushed case before Hamilton pulled the plug on this model altogether. I'm really glad I did. Powered by Hamilton's H-31 caliber, a modified Valjoux 7750, the watch has a 60-hr power reserve. The traditional 3 & 9 bicompax layout is really nice, and I love the vintage tones the dial and hands exude. The afterthought date wheel is much less noticeable on this dial than on the black dial, and the nicer case finishing seems to really work. The watch is equally at home on a nylon strap or a nice No. 8 shell strap.
I am a big fan of what Eddie Platts is doing with Time Factors and have owned several of his watches over the years, finding them surprisingly well made for the price. One of my favorites is this Smiths PRS-36, a cushion cased watch running a beautifully finished NOS Peseux 7040. The faux blued hands look great against Navy shell cordovan, and the watch makes a fine dress casual piece. The finishing and presentation are much nicer than you would expect at the price.
