Landon B
1956 · 10k Rolled Gold Plate / Stainless Steel · Manual Wind
About the Landon B
Made only in 1956, the Landon B is a rectangular dress watch powered by the ETA 1220, a 17-jewel manual wind movement. The case is 10K yellow Rolled Gold Plate with a stainless steel back, and the dial carries embossed gold numerals at the 2, 4, 8, 10, and 12 positions, with gold dot indices at the even-numbered hours filling out the layout. The Landon B is a close relative of the Landon, sharing its general character while offering this specific dial configuration.
The embossed dial is the thing to examine closely on these. That raised numeral construction adds a tactile quality that photographs rarely capture well, but it also means the dial surface can show wear differently than a printed dial would. Finding one with the embossing crisp and unpolished is worth holding out for.
From the Catalog
Hamilton described the Landon B simply as having a 10K yellow rolled gold case with stainless steel back and an embossed dial. It was offered at $59.50 with a bracelet or $55.00 on a strap in 1956.
Hamilton Catalog Images
1956
What to Look For
| Dial | Look closely at the embossed gold numerals and dot indices. The raised construction is prone to showing wear at the high points, and any over-cleaning or polishing will flatten the relief. The silver dial finish should be even, without spotting or moisture damage near the edges. |
| Crystal | The original crystal on these is acrylic. Light scratches can be polished out, but deep gouges or crazing mean a replacement is needed. A poorly fitting replacement crystal can let in dust and moisture, so confirm the fit is correct and the crystal sits flush. |
| Movement | Ask about service history. Dried oil in the ETA 1220 creates enough friction to stop the movement entirely, and a watch this age has almost certainly gone decades between services. Listen for smooth winding and confirm it runs consistently before committing. |
| Case | The 10K yellow rolled gold plate will show wear through to the base metal on high-contact surfaces over time, particularly on lugs and case edges. Inspect those areas carefully. The stainless steel back should be free of deep scratches or evidence of forced opening. |
| Crown | Confirm the crown winds smoothly and sets the hands without slipping. A worn or replaced crown that does not match the original profile is a minor but visible issue on a dress watch this size. |
The Movement
The ETA 1220 is a Swiss-made 17-jewel manual wind movement that Hamilton sourced during this period for several of its dress models. It is a compact, reliable caliber well suited to the slim rectangular case format. Hand-wound each day, it is straightforward to service when properly maintained.