Thinline 2029
1968–1970 · 14k Solid Yellow Gold · Manual Wind
About the Thinline 2029
The Thinline 2029 was produced from 1968 through 1970, part of Hamilton's Thinline family of slim, dress-oriented watches aimed squarely at the formal end of the market. The case is 14K yellow gold with a clean circular profile and straight lugs, powered by the caliber 688, a 17-jewel manual wind movement. The dial is silver with applied gold stick markers and no Arabic numerals, giving it a spare, refined look that suited the late-1960s taste for understated elegance. Within the Thinline family, the 2029 represents the purer end of the spectrum, prioritizing proportion and material over complication.
Finding one in solid condition means paying close attention to the dial, which can show spotting or discoloration around the applied markers over time. The 14K gold case holds up well physically, but check the lugs and case back carefully, as wear and improper opening attempts can leave marks that are difficult to ignore on a watch at this price point. The sweep seconds hand is a detail worth confirming present and original, since it's easy to overlook but noticeably wrong when it's missing or mismatched.
From the Catalog
Hamilton listed the Thinline 2029 in 1968 alongside its other Thinline dress pieces, describing it simply as a 14K yellow gold model with a white dial and gold stick markers, priced at $140. That price placed it at the accessible end of Hamilton's solid gold lineup, making it an attainable choice for someone who wanted the real thing without stepping into the more expensive complications.
Hamilton Catalog Images
1968
1971
What to Look For
| Dial | Look closely at the silver dial for spotting, discoloration, or detachment around the applied gold stick markers. Any separation or corrosion at the marker bases is a condition issue worth factoring into your assessment. |
| Crystal | Check for deep scratches or chips. Replacement crystals for this case shape are available, but confirm the fit is correct and the crystal sits flush with no separation at the edge. |
| Movement | Wind the watch fully and confirm the caliber 688 is running. A watch that has been sitting for years with dried oil can develop enough friction to stall the movement, so a smooth, consistent rate is what you want to see before buying. |
| Case | Examine the 14K yellow gold case for dents, deep scratches, or signs that the case back has been pried open carelessly. The case back on these can be tricky to open without leaving marks, and a dinged-up edge is a common sign of rough prior handling. |
| Crown | Pull the crown gently and confirm it winds the movement smoothly and sets the hands without slipping. On vintage manual winds, the crown can detach from the stem if pulled too hard, so avoid aggressive tugging during inspection. |
The Movement
The caliber 688 is a 17-jewel manual wind movement produced by Hamilton during its transition period, when American design was increasingly paired with Swiss-made ebauches. It is a slim, reliable caliber well suited to the thin case profile of the 2029. Like most manual winds of the era, it rewards regular winding and periodic servicing to keep the oils fresh and the rate consistent.