Foster (1939)
1939–1940 · 14k Solid Yellow Gold · Manual
About the Foster (1939)
Hamilton introduced the Foster in 1939 as part of their solid gold rectangular lineup. The case is 14K natural gold throughout — not gold filled — and Hamilton priced it accordingly, listing it at $80 original ($90 in the first year). That put it above many of its stablemates and targeted the buyer who specifically wanted solid gold. The case curves dramatically to fit the wrist, with lugs that flare outward where the strap attaches, giving it a slightly different character than the Linwood it shared design DNA with.
The Foster ran for two years only, 1939 and 1940, before being dropped from the 1941 catalog. That short production window makes it genuinely scarce — not a model that shows up regularly. The dial features an exclusive spherical construction with 18K applied gold numerals on a sterling silver surface, and the solid gold back means you won't see the wear-through that's common on gold-filled cases of the period. When you find one in honest, unrestored condition, the case quality speaks for itself.
From the Catalog
Hamilton's catalog copy for the Foster led with the spherical dial as an exclusive feature, pairing it with 19-jewel movement count and 14K natural gold construction. The model appeared in 1939 and 1940, then was listed among dropped models in the 1941 catalog — the clearest confirmation of its two-year run.
Hamilton Catalog Images
1939
1940
What to Look For
| Case | Solid 14K gold throughout. Verify there's no wear-through on the back — there shouldn't be, since it's not gold-filled, but previous polishing can remove hallmarks. The lugs should flare outward; check that they haven't been bent or reshaped. |
| Dial | The spherical dial construction is specific to this model. Look closely at each of the 18K applied gold numerals — they can shift, lift at one edge, or develop independent patina. Replacement with any degree of originality is nearly impossible, so condition matters greatly. |
| Movement | The 982 is a well-regarded 19-jewel movement. Confirm the grade on the movement plate matches — it should be 982 (1939) or 982M (1940). Given the age, a full service is expected and the mainspring should be inspected. |
The Movement
Hamilton used the 19-jewel 982 movement in the Foster, consistent with their practice of reserving that jewel count for solid gold cases in this era. The 982M variant appeared in the 1940 model year. Both are 14/0-size movements — the same platform Hamilton had been refining through the late 1930s — known for reliability and a long service life when properly maintained.