M 100-3
1963–1964 · 10k RGP · Automatic
About the M 100-3
Made only in 1964, the M 100-3 is part of Hamilton's M Series lineup, a group of automatic dress watches that offered solid value at accessible price points. It runs on the caliber 689, a 17-jewel automatic movement, housed in a 10k Rolled Gold Plate round case. The black dial with silver finish and applied baton markers gives it a clean, legible look that works as well today as it did in the early 1960s. The M Series sits alongside Hamilton's broader push into reliable everyday automatics during this period, and the M 100-3 represents a tidy example of that direction.
Finding one in good shape means paying close attention to the dial, because the silver finish and applied markers can show their age in different ways. The applied baton markers hold up better than printed dials under normal conditions, but the base dial itself can develop spotting or discoloration if moisture ever got in. Cases in Rolled Gold Plate wear through at the high points over time, so look at the lugs and caseback edges carefully before assuming the finish is intact.
From the Catalog
Hamilton's 1964 catalog listed this model as a self-winding watch in 10k yellow rolled gold plate, priced at $100. That put it at a respectable but accessible point in the lineup, offering an automatic movement in a dress-ready package without stepping up to solid gold case pricing.
Hamilton Catalog Images
1964
What to Look For
| Dial | Look closely at the silver dial for spotting, separation at the applied baton markers, or uneven discoloration. The dial cannot be safely cleaned without risking the finish, so what you see is what you get. Minor age patina is normal, but bubbling or flaking is a concern. |
| Crystal | Check for deep scratches or crazing. A replacement acrylic crystal is inexpensive, but confirm the profile fits the case correctly before assuming any crystal will do. |
| Movement | Dried oil in a movement of this age creates enough friction to stop it entirely. Give the watch some wrist time and see if it runs consistently before drawing any conclusions about the movement's health. A service is the baseline assumption on any unserviced example. |
| Case | The 10k rolled gold plate case will show wear at the lugs, caseback edges, and any high points on the case sides. Examine those areas in good light. Heavy polishing can accelerate wear-through, so look for signs of overzealous buffing as well as natural wear. Case backs on watches of this era can be tricky to open, so don't force it. |
| Crown | Test the crown in both the winding and time-setting positions. A worn or replaced crown is common and usually not a problem, but make sure it seats fully and the watch winds smoothly. |
The Movement
The caliber 689 is a 17-jewel automatic movement from Hamilton's domestic production era. It winds via a rotor, so normal wrist wear keeps it running without manual winding. It's a straightforward, serviceable movement with a good track record for reliability when properly maintained.