Identifying vintage Hamilton watches requires particular attention to the movement, as Hamilton graded their movements by quality and many are well-documented. Opening the case back to examine the movement allows verification of the Hamilton name, caliber designation, and serial number. The finishing quality and construction of the movement should be consistent with Hamilton's known standards for that caliber and grade.
For both vintage and modern Hamilton watches, dial inspection is an important authentication step. Genuine Hamilton dials should display the correct logo and text formatting for the era, with clean printing and proper alignment. Vintage Hamilton dials are known for their high quality, and refinished dials (while not necessarily fraudulent) can sometimes be identified by subtle differences in printing style or text placement compared to original dials.
Overall consistency is key to Hamilton identification. The movement, case, dial, and hands should all correspond to the same model and era. Recased movements, refinished dials, and replaced hands are all common in the vintage Hamilton market and do not necessarily indicate fraud, but they are typically disclosed by reputable sellers as they affect value. For significant purchases, particularly rare vintage models or military-issued pieces, professional authentication is commonly recommended.