Lansing
1958–1959 · 14k Solid Yellow Gold · Manual Wind
About the Lansing
The Lansing was made from 1958 through 1959 in a 14K yellow gold square case, powered by Hamilton's caliber 770 manual wind movement with 22 jewels. The dial is a silver base with 14K gold applied numerals at the 2, 4, 8, and 10 positions and embossed gold markers filling in the rest, giving it a refined, understated look that suits the case geometry well. The Lansing is part of a close family group with the Courtney, sharing similar design sensibilities in Hamilton's dress watch lineup from this period.
The silver dial is the detail to pay closest attention to on a Lansing. Silver dials can develop patina or spotting over decades, and the quality of that aging varies quite a bit from piece to piece. The embossed markers are a nice detail that holds up well mechanically, but can show wear if the dial has been poorly stored or improperly cleaned at some point.
From the Catalog
Hamilton listed the Lansing at $125.00 in 1958, describing it as a 22-jewel watch in a 14K yellow gold case with 14K gold numerals and embossed markers on a sterling silver dial, worn on a strap. That price put it in the upper-middle range of Hamilton's dress watch offerings for the year, reflecting both the solid gold case and the quality of the dial work.
Hamilton Catalog Images
1958
1959
What to Look For
| Dial | Look carefully at the silver dial for spotting, spotting or discoloration, or uneven patina. Some oxidation is expected and honest, but blotchy or discolored areas may indicate past moisture exposure or improper cleaning. Check that the applied gold numerals at 2, 4, 8, and 10 are fully seated and undamaged, and that the embossed markers still show crisp definition. |
| Crystal | The square case shape means the crystal edges and corners are more vulnerable than a round watch. Check for chips or separation at the corners, and confirm the crystal is properly seated with no gaps around the perimeter. |
| Movement | Ask about service history. Dried oil in the caliber 770 creates enough friction to stop the movement entirely, and a watch this age has almost certainly gone decades between services. A running Lansing is not necessarily a healthy one. |
| Case | The 14K yellow gold case should show honest wear consistent with its age, but check the lugs and case edges for excessive thinning from over-polishing. Original sharp edges and surface texture are worth preserving. The case back can be tricky to open, so confirm it has not been forced or damaged in a previous service attempt. |
| Crown | Test the crown through winding and time-setting. It should feel smooth and engage cleanly. A loose or mushy crown on a 14K gold case is worth investigating, since crown tube repairs on precious metal cases add complexity to any service. |
The Movement
The caliber 770 is Hamilton's 22-jewel manual wind movement, built on a 12/0 platform that was a workhorse of the brand's dress watch production in the late 1950s and early 1960s. The extra jewels beyond the standard count go toward reducing friction at key points in the gear train, which in theory helps with long-term timekeeping accuracy and power efficiency. It is a reliable movement when properly serviced, hand-winding through a smooth crown action with a satisfying feel.