Automatic K-250
1955–1957 · 14K yellow/SS · Automatic
About the Automatic K-250
Made from 1955 through 1957, the Automatic K-250 is part of Hamilton's Automatic family and runs on the caliber 661, a 17-jewel self-winding movement. The case pairs a 14K yellow gold top with a stainless steel back, and the dial features 18K gold numerals on a pearled track with a sweep seconds hand. Hamilton's Silhouette hands, which carry luminous material on the underside rather than the face, give the watch a clean, uncluttered look that was very much in step with mid-1950s American design sensibility.
Finding one in honest condition is satisfying, but the dial takes some scrutiny. The Silhouette hands sit very close to the dial surface, and proximity over the decades can leave burn marks or discoloration on the silver dial, particularly near the numeral positions. The embossed silver dial with 18K gold numerals and pearled track is a nice combination when it survives well, so time spent examining the dial closely before purchase is time well spent.
From the Catalog
Hamilton listed the K-250 at $150 in 1955, positioning it as a premium automatic with genuine gold content in both the case and the dial numerals. The catalog called out the 18K gold numerals, the pearled track, anti-magnetic construction, shock resistance, and waterproofing, along with the distinctive Silhouette hands whose luminous material is hidden on the underside for a cleaner dial face.
Hamilton Catalog Images
1955
1957
What to Look For
| Dial | Look carefully for burn marks or ghosting from the Silhouette hands, which ride very close to the dial. Discoloration near the numerals or along the track is common on examples that weren't stored carefully. The pearled track and 18K gold numerals should be crisp and evenly finished. |
| Crystal | Check for chips, deep scratches, or crazing. A replacement acrylic crystal is inexpensive and preferable to a cracked original. Make sure the fit is correct and flush with the bezel. |
| Movement | Dried oil is a genuine concern on any caliber 661 that hasn't been serviced in years. Enough friction builds up to stop the movement entirely, even though the watch appears otherwise complete. Ask about service history, and if it's unknown, budget for a full service before daily wear. |
| Case | The 14K yellow gold top should show wear consistent with age and use, but look for deep gouges or dents that go beyond normal patina. Also check the case back area for pry marks. This model opens through the crystal side rather than the back, and attempts to force the case back can leave lasting damage. |
| Crown | Confirm the crown is original or at least period-appropriate and screws or seats properly. A loose or damaged crown compromises water resistance and wind function. Replacements are available, but originality matters on a gold-cased model. |
The Movement
The caliber 661 is a 17-jewel automatic that Hamilton used across several models in this period. It winds via a rotor as the watch moves on the wrist, so it doesn't require daily hand-winding during regular wear. It's a capable movement when properly serviced, though like all automatics of this era, it benefits from a full clean and oil refresh to run reliably.