SW-6000
1968–1969 · 10k Rolled Gold Plate T
About the SW-6000
Made from 1968 through 1969, the SW-6000 is part of Hamilton's Accumatic line, a family of automatic watches that helped Hamilton compete in the growing market for self-winding dress and everyday wear. It runs on the caliber 685, a 17-jewel automatic, and comes in a round 10k Rolled Gold Plate case with a silver dial, applied baton hour markers, and a date window at 3 o'clock. The bracelet configuration and clean dial layout gave it a trim, contemporary look that was well suited to the late 1960s.
Rolled Gold Plate cases from this era hold up reasonably well, but any polishing over the decades can thin the gold layer at the lugs and high points, so condition of the case surface is worth examining closely. The silver dial with applied baton markers is straightforward but can show age in the form of light spotting or fading near the edges, which is common on dials of this vintage. A clean, unpolished example with an intact dial is the one to look for.
From the Catalog
Hamilton listed the SW-6000 at $100.00, described simply as a rolled gold plate, 17-jewel automatic on bracelet. No further embellishment from Hamilton, which was typical for the utilitarian end of the Accumatic lineup.
Hamilton Catalog Images
1970
What to Look For
| Dial | Check the silver dial for spotting, fading, or discoloration near the edges and around the date window. The applied baton markers can develop a slight gap or begin pulling away from the dial at one end over time, so look at each one closely under decent light. |
| Crystal | The original crystal is acrylic. Scratches are normal and can be polished out, but deep gouges or crazing mean a replacement is needed before the watch sells well. |
| Movement | The caliber 685 is an automatic, but dried lubricants in a movement this old will build enough friction to stop the rotor or cause erratic timekeeping even when the watch appears to be running. Ask whether it has been recently serviced. |
| Case | Rolled gold plate wears through at contact points over time. Check the lug tops, case edges, and bracelet attachment areas for any brass showing through. The case back can be tight and requires the right tool to open without damaging the back or case. |
| Crown | Work the crown through winding and date-setting positions. It should feel smooth and seat firmly. A crown that spins without resistance or sticks in the date-set position often points to a worn or damaged stem. |
The Movement
The caliber 685 is a 17-jewel automatic movement produced during Hamilton's Swiss manufacturing period. It winds through a bidirectional rotor, keeping the mainspring topped off through normal wrist movement, and drives a quick-set date at the 3 o'clock position. It is a solid workhorse movement, not exotic, but well made and reliable when properly serviced.