Hamilton's new "Jazzmaster Open Heart" burgundy dial model review

Among Hamilton's diverse lineup, the Jazzmaster Open Heart Auto is a popular collection that suits a wide range of occasions, from business to casual. This time, we'll be reviewing the new burgundy gradient dial model. The burgundy color combined with the classic yet urban design is appealing, and it also offers excellent practicality, including comfort. The level of perfection reaffirms the popularity of the collection.

Hamilton's popular collection "Jazzmaster" has a diverse lineup

　While the strategies of each watch brand vary widely, they can be broadly categorized as "enhancing a specific genre," "broadening the range while maintaining a unified design," or "comprehensively offering a wide variety of models." In reality, each brand establishes its own unique identity by combining these strategies in a complex way. From this perspective, Hamilton stands out for its wide variety of models.

　Let's take a look at Hamilton's lineup in brief.The Khaki Field Mecha that I reviewed the other dayThere are military designs and tough tool watches, such as the "American Classic" that conveys the American design style of the 1960s, and the "Ventura" that continues the lineage of the world's first battery-powered wristwatch and features an iconic triangular case with its apex at 9 o'clock. Lined up here is the "Jazzmaster," and what we'll be reviewing today is the new color of the "Jazzmaster Open Heart Auto" with a case diameter of 40mm.

Jazzmaster Open Heart Auto design

　To sum up the design of the Jazzmaster, I would say that it has an urban image based on a classical and conservative taste, with a modern feel that is clearly different from American classics. The Jazzmaster also has a lineup of avant-garde designs, which could be described as contemporary jazz. Another distinctive feature is the lineup of models with openwork details, such as this one.

　This is a three-hand model that features design elements common to many Jazzmaster collections. The hour and minute hands have a sharp shape that tapers toward the tip, and the indices repeat this shape. The silhouette of the lugs, which appear to be soldered to the round case, is also an element shared by many Jazzmasters. The distinctive openwork is found at the 12 o'clock position, where the balance wheel can be seen, and at the 7-8 o'clock position, and in an arc from 1 to 4 o'clock.

　Three new colors were announced at the same time as this model. In addition to the burgundy gradient color of this model, the 40mm case now comes in silver, and both bracelet and leather strap models are available. The bracelet model is priced at 169,400 yen, and the leather strap model is priced at 158,400 yen (both including tax). The 36mm case now comes in apricot color, which is available only as a bracelet model for 156,200 yen (including tax).

New burgundy gradation

　Now, let's take a look at the new burgundy gradient color. Its base color is a subdued, saturated, chic burgundy with a sunburst effect surrounding it. This color is reminiscent of the vintage cherry red of guitars, and it's sure to produce a jazzy sound. The seconds scale, drawn down to 1/3 of a second, is white, and overlaps with the gradient area, creating a nice contrast.

　Another feature is the relatively large area of ​​the openwork. In addition to the balance wheel, openwork is applied to the mandarin duck near the crown, the case back, and at 7 o'clock, where the main plate can be seen. The edges of the openwork are also chamfered. When you look closely, you can see the gleaming chamfer sandwiched between the burgundy dial and the movement visible through the openwork. Combined with the circular graining on the main plate, it evokes the finish on the movement. Overall, I felt that the design successfully harmonizes the appeal of the dial's coloring and texture with the mechanical feel associated with mechanical watches.

It is comfortable to wear, highly practical, and has a high overall quality.

　The weight is a standard 139g with the bracelet adjusted. The bracelet is a three-link type made up of independent links, allowing for smooth movement. It is neither too thick nor too thin, with a good balance of play and rigidity. It is also soft against the skin, and the finish is of a high level.

　I have a wrist circumference of about 18cm, and the bracelet fits snugly against my wrist, making it comfortable to wear. The weight balance between the watch and bracelet is also good. The case is relatively thin for a mid-range three-hand model, at 11.05mm thick, which means the center of gravity is low and there's minimal interference with the sleeve. In addition, the diameter of the case back is small and the shape widens toward the dial, so it doesn't interfere with the back of your hand even when bending your wrist. The lugs are short and shaped to fit the wrist, and the bracelet has a wide range of movement, so it should suit people with smaller wrists than mine. These features combine to create this watch's comfortable fit.

　The watch received high marks for comfort, which is important for long-term use. So, what about its other practical features? First of all, visibility was excellent. The contrast between the dial and hands was high, and the luminous paint applied in key areas acted as a scale, making it useful for measuring time even in bright light.

　It is equipped with the automatic Cal. H-10 movement, which boasts a power reserve of approximately 80 hours, a high level of performance by modern standards. It also features a balance spring made from Nivachron™, an anti-magnetic material, which reduces the effects of magnetic fields, which are unavoidable in modern life, preventing a deterioration in accuracy.

　During the impression period, I tried it with a jacket style and casual wear, and it matched well with all of them. It's not too casual, and it's not too formal, so in my opinion it's perfect for people looking for a versatile piece.

A guitar that clearly explains why the Jazzmaster is so popular

　If you look in a Hamilton showcase, you'll always find a Jazzmaster, especially a three-hand model like the Jazzmaster Open Heart Auto. If you don't see it, it's likely that it has just sold out. The fact that the lineup continues to be updated with small improvements and new colors added while maintaining the same concept shows just how enduringly popular it is.

　The reasons are easy to imagine. There are a variety of simple three-hand models in a variety of designs (colors), all with a "just right" design that suits both business and casual occasions, many bracelet models that Japanese people love, open-heart models that give you the feeling that you're wearing a mechanical movement, and even though they're mechanical models, they can all be found for under 200,000 yen. There are also a wide range of sizes, including 42mm, 40mm, and 36mm models with designs similar to this one, making it easy to choose one that suits your tastes and build.

　I was impressed by how comfortable it was to wear, which shows that Hamilton has been steadily improving its products. Its practicality, including its movement performance, is also impeccable. While writing this review, I was browsing Hamilton's lineup in search of a color I liked, under the guise of research.