Thinline 6513
1968–1970 · 10k RGP / Stainless · Manual Wind
About the Thinline 6513
Made from 1968 through 1970, the Thinline 6513 is part of Hamilton's Thinline family, a line built around slim, dressy cases suited to the tailored fashions of the late 1960s. The case is cushion-shaped, rendered in 10K yellow Rolled Gold Plate over stainless steel, and houses a 17-jewel caliber 639 manual wind movement. The dial is silver with enameled black numerals at all positions except 6, where a subseconds register takes over. A green dial variant with Roman numerals also appeared in the 1970 catalog, so examples do surface with different configurations than the more commonly seen silver version.
The cushion case shape gives this model a slightly sportier feel than the rectangular dress watches that dominated the Thinline lineup, which makes it a good crossover piece for collectors who want something wearable but still period-correct. Rolled gold cases from this era can show wear at the lugs and high points, so examine those areas closely before buying. The hidden lug construction looks clean on the wrist but makes strap changes a little less straightforward than a conventional lug design.
From the Catalog
Hamilton marketed the 6513 in 1968 at $45 on a strap, with a bracelet version offered at $55. By the time of the 1970 catalog listing, the reference had shifted to a yellow top configuration priced at $59.50, reflecting both the dial change and the upward price movement common across the Thinline line during that period.
Hamilton Catalog Images
1968
1970
1971
What to Look For
| Dial | Look closely at the enameled black numerals for chips, flaking, or discoloration. Enameled printing can crack or pull away from the dial with age, especially if the watch was ever exposed to moisture. Confirm whether the dial matches the expected variant for the year, since a green Roman numeral dial is correct for 1970 but the silver Arabic numeral dial is the earlier configuration. |
| Crystal | The cushion case shape means a standard round crystal will not fit. Confirm the crystal is properly fitted to the case outline, with no gaps or separation at the edges where dust and moisture can enter. |
| Movement | The caliber 639 has very little clearance between its overlapping parts, and oil in a movement this age has almost certainly dried out. Dried lubricant creates enough friction to stop the watch entirely or cause it to run erratically. Ask specifically whether the movement has been serviced recently and by someone familiar with this caliber. |
| Case | Check the lugs and bezel for wear-through on the rolled gold. Once the gold layer is worn to bare metal, there is no practical way to restore the original finish. Case backs on watches from this era can be stubborn to open, and some show evidence of being forced, which can damage the gasket seat or the back itself. |
| Crown | Work the crown through winding and setting. It should feel smooth without slipping or grinding. Even though this model was originally rated waterproof, vintage gaskets should not be trusted for any water exposure at this point. |
The Movement
The caliber 639 is a 17-jewel manual wind movement made by Hamilton in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. It winds and sets conventionally, with a subseconds register running off the third wheel. The movement is compact and well-constructed, but the tight tolerances between its parts make a thorough cleaning and lubrication genuinely important for long-term reliable running.