Vintage Hamilton Electric Pacer "Rockford Screw Products 25" Dial & 10K Gold Filled - In Original Box

Watch Overview

The Hamilton Pacer is one of the most recognizable models from the golden age of Hamilton Electric watches. Produced from 1957 to 1969, it was the only electric model to span the entire production run, making it a cornerstone of mid-century American watchmaking. This example is powered by the later and improved Hamilton 505 movement — a hybrid of electric power and mechanical balance.

Originally a corporate presentation watch, this piece features a silver-tone dial signed by “Rockford Screw Products Co.”. The Screw Company is still active today. The dial is particularly collectible for its unique screw-and-bolt hour markers. It also bears the “Hamilton Electric” logo and a prominent “25” marker, adding to its charm and rarity.

The 32mm asymmetrical case is crafted in two-tone 10K gold-filled metal with distinctive white-filled lugs — a design that embodies 1950s futurism. A domed acrylic crystal, signed pull-push crown, and classic black leather strap complete the look. Well-preserved and fully inspected, this Hamilton Pacer is a standout example of early electric innovation and bold American design — a must-have for collectors of vintage technology and iconic mid-century style.

Product Details

General Specifications

• Brand: Hamilton
• Type: Wristwatch
• Model: Pacer
• Reference: -
• Year / Era: 1950s - Vintage
• Gender: Men's
• Country of Manufacture: United States - U.S.A.

Dial & Display

• Display: Analog
• Color: Silver-tone
• Features: Screws & Bolts as hour markers and matching gold-tone hands. Marked "Rockford Screw Products Co.", "25" and "Hamilton Electric"

Movement

• Type: Electric with a traditional mechanical watch balance wheel and gear train.
• Caliber: Hamilton 505
• Jewels:
• Movement Functions:
  • Battery powered
  • Central hours and minutes
  • Central seconds
• Power Reserve: -
• Frequency: -

Case & Band

• Material: Two-tone. 10K gold filled
• Case Shape: Asymmetrical with white filled lugs
• Bezel: Fixed
• Crystal: Acrylic
• Back: Snap
• Crown: Signed pull-push
• Water Resistance: -
• Band Type: Black leather two-piece strap
• Case Back Markings: Hamilton - 10K Gold Filled

Case Measurements (mm)

• Case Size: 32
• Case Lug to Lug: 46
• Lug Width: 17
• Band Width: 17

Additional Info

• Box & Papers: YES - Original Box. No papers.
• Condition: The watch is in good condition, some signs of wear consistent with age and use, a solid case and dial. Brand new strap.
• Extras: This timepiece has been fully inspected and authenticated by our in-house watchmaker, confirming that it runs accurately. It is ready to wear.

History & Legacy of Hamilton

The Hamilton Electric marked a pioneering shift in watchmaking by drawing on an unconventional power source—what the company described as “an energy cell no larger than a shirt button.” Although battery-powered, the movement remained largely mechanical, using no transistors or electronic components, making it a significant precursor to the modern quartz revolution. Development began around 1946 in Lancaster, Pennsylvania under the codename "Project X," but it wasn’t until January 3, 1957, at a press conference held at the Savoy Plaza Hotel in New York City, that Hamilton officially unveiled the world’s first electric watch: the Hamilton Electric 500. Available in a range of bold, asymmetrical case designs, all featured the innovative caliber 500 (or 500A). However, the technology faced challenges—the 500’s delicate electrical contact system proved too fragile, leading to widespread servicing issues and poor acceptance among watchmakers. Rushing to be first to market, Hamilton struggled with early quality control, resulting in many units being returned for adjustments. It wasn’t until 1961, with the release of the improved caliber 505, that many of these problems were addressed, offering a more reliable and serviceable movement.

About Second Hand Horology

At SECOND HAND HOROLOGY, we offer a curated selection of watches ranging from vintage to modern, including both brand-new and pre-owned timepieces. We’re committed to quality, accuracy, and integrity. Our listings feature:

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