Sebold
1964 · Stainless Steel · Manual Wind
About the Sebold
Made only in 1964, the Sebold pairs Hamilton's caliber 688 manual wind movement with a stainless steel case and matching integrated bracelet. The silver dial features textured silver numerals at all positions with a sweep seconds hand, giving it a clean, sporty look that suited mid-decade American tastes. At $49.95 with the bracelet included, it was positioned as an accessible daily wearer rather than a dress piece.
Finding a Sebold with its original bracelet intact is the real challenge here. Integrated bracelets from this era stretch, lose end links, and get replaced, so a complete, original example carries meaningful added interest. The dial variant with brushed finish and silver figures inset into the dial is particularly attractive in person, and the luminous hands hold up well when the tritium hasn't faded too badly.
From the Catalog
Hamilton's 1964 catalog kept the Sebold's listing brief: stainless steel case and bracelet, 17 jewels, shock-resistant, anti-magnetic, with an unbreakable mainspring, waterproof and dustproof with seals intact. It retailed for $49.95, bracelet included.
Hamilton Catalog Images
1964
What to Look For
| Dial | Look closely at the textured silver numerals. On the variant with figures inset into the dial, check that none have separated, shifted, or shown moisture damage around their edges. Silvered dials from this period can develop light spotting under the lacquer, so examine under good lighting at an angle. |
| Crystal | The Sebold takes a flat mineral or acrylic crystal. Check for deep scratches or chips around the edges near the bezel. A fogged or crazed crystal usually means moisture got in at some point, which is worth investigating further. |
| Movement | Ask when the caliber 688 was last serviced. Oil in movements of this age thickens and congeals, and enough friction from dried lubricants can bring the watch to a stop entirely. A movement running today may not keep running tomorrow if it hasn't been freshly serviced. |
| Case | The stainless steel case is durable but the case back can be stubborn to open without the right tools, and improper opening leaves marks. Check the case back edge for evidence of prying. Also confirm the bracelet, if present, is original and not a later replacement. |
| Crown | Pull the crown gently to test winding and hand-setting. On vintage manual winds, the crown can detach from the stem if yanked too hard, and a stem replacement requires finding the right part. Smooth, firm engagement is what you want. |
The Movement
The caliber 688 is a 17-jewel manual wind movement made by Hamilton in the United States. It winds from the crown, runs at a steady pace suitable for daily use, and is straightforward to service when parts are available. Like most American Hamilton movements of its generation, it rewards regular service intervals and responds well to a proper cleaning and lubrication.