Dateline TM-2400
1968–1971 · 14k Solid Yellow Gold · Automatic
About the Dateline TM-2400
Made from 1968 through 1971, the Dateline TM-2400 is part of Hamilton's Dateline family, which centered on automatic movements with date complications in dressy cases. This particular model comes in 14K yellow gold with a cushion case shape, powered by the caliber 614, a 17-jewel automatic. The silver dial carries applied gold markers with no Arabic numerals, giving it a clean, restrained look that suited the late-1960s taste for understated dress watches.
Applied gold markers on a silver dial can develop subtle patina or separation at the edges over decades, so close inspection under good light is worthwhile before buying. The 14K yellow gold case means scratches and dings are part of the history, but also that the case has likely been polished at least once, sometimes aggressively, which can soften the original lug lines. Finding one with the case geometry still crisp and the dial markers sitting flat is genuinely satisfying.
From the Catalog
Hamilton described the TM-2400 as combining date convenience with refined styling, highlighting the self-winding movement, midnight date advance, and roughly 40 hours of power reserve during a normal day's wear. It retailed for $185 in 1968, placing it firmly in Hamilton's solid gold dress tier.
Hamilton Catalog Images
1968
1970
1971
What to Look For
| Dial | Look carefully at each applied gold marker. After 50-plus years, adhesion can weaken, and a marker that is slightly separated from the dial or shifted will affect both appearance and value. Check for spotting or corrosion on the silver dial surface, which can be hard to reverse. |
| Crystal | The cushion case shape means the crystal has a specific fit, and replacements can be hard to match precisely. Check for chips at the edges and deep scratches that distort the dial view. |
| Movement | The caliber 614 is an automatic, so it should wind from wrist motion. That said, dried lubricants are common in movements this age. If it stops after sitting still for an hour, or runs with obvious inconsistency, assume it needs a full service before daily wear. |
| Case | 14K gold is softer than steel, so inspect the lugs for wear and note whether the case has been over-polished. Crisp edges and visible lug definition are signs the case has been treated well. |
| Crown | Pull the crown to the date-setting position and advance the date slowly. It should click over cleanly without resistance. A sticky or grinding date mechanism usually means the movement needs attention. Also confirm the crown threads or snaps back to the neutral position securely. |
The Movement
The caliber 614 is a 17-jewel automatic built for Hamilton's date-equipped dress watch line of the late 1960s. It winds itself through normal wrist movement and advances the date at midnight, with up to 40 hours of power reserve when fully wound. It is a reliable workhorse movement, not especially difficult to service, though like any automatic from this era it benefits from fresh lubricants to run at its best.