Square B Engraved
1931–1932 · Gold Filled
About the Square B Engraved
Made from 1931 through 1932, the Square B Engraved is a rectangular Gold Filled dress watch powered by either Hamilton's caliber 979 or 987, both 17-jewel movements. The engraved case decoration is the defining feature here, setting it apart from the plain Square B and giving it a more ornate character suited to the formal fashion of the early 1930s. Hamilton offered it in 14K Gold Filled or 18K solid gold, in yellow, green, or white, and buyers could upgrade to a raised gold figure dial for an extra charge.
Finding one in honest shape takes some patience. The engraved case decoration tends to wear unevenly, and the bezel corners near the crystal are particularly vulnerable on rectangular cases of this era, so examine those areas carefully before committing. Dial condition is the other variable worth weighing: the raised gold figure dial was an add-on option, and not every example will have it.
From the Catalog
Hamilton's 1931 catalog offered the Square B Engraved in 14K gold filled starting at $57.00, with 18K solid gold versions at $87.00, and the raised gold figure dial available as an upgrade for $8.00 extra. The watch came in yellow, green, or white gold across both material grades.
Hamilton Catalog Images
1931
1932
What to Look For
| Dial | Check whether the example has the raised gold figure dial, which was an extra-cost option at original purchase. If present, look for any separation or loss of the raised numerals. On standard dials, look for fading, spotting, or re-dial work. |
| Crystal | Rectangular crystals on watches of this age are often replaced with incorrect sizes or profiles. Confirm the crystal fits flush and square to the bezel without gaps or a domed profile that doesn't match the period design. |
| Movement | Oil in a caliber 979 or 987 of this age has almost certainly dried out. That dried friction alone can cause erratic timekeeping or a watch that stops entirely. Ask specifically whether the movement has been recently serviced. |
| Case | The bezel corners near the crystal are the first place to show wear on rectangular gold filled cases. Examine them closely for thinning or buffing damage. Also assess whether the engraving retains its crispness or has been polished to the point of softening the detail. |
| Crown | Check that the crown is original or at least period-appropriate in size and finish. A mismatched crown is common on watches that have passed through multiple hands and is worth factoring into your assessment. |
The Movement
The caliber 979 and 987 are both 17-jewel manual-wind movements from Hamilton's American production era. They are solid, well-built movements that respond well to a thorough service, though the balance assembly requires careful handling since both the hairspring and balance pivots are vulnerable to damage during adjustment. A properly serviced example should keep reliable time for years.