A combination of rubber, titanium, portholes and blockbuster movies are elements that have helped the 2016 re-launch of the Khaki Navy Frogman watch from Hamilton. This on-trend revival line is a tribute to a piece of real and onscreen diving history: the iconic submersible watch created for the US naval frogmen teams and featured in the 1951 smash-hit movie The Frogmen and the brand’s very first on-screen appearance. This first foray into the movie industry, in which the company has become a leader, has its roots in its military reputation that dates back to World War I and II when Hamilton, founded in 1892, equipped the American military.
Fast forward to 2016 and the sportier, more rugged Khaki Navy Frogman collection with a technical edge, matching style with function in an appealing choice of variations makes its debut. Fronted by world-renowned free diver Pierre Frolla, each model is equipped with a stunning crown-protection device, inspired by its 1951 ancestor with its inimitable military canteen design.
In keeping with its double billing as a super-sporty watch and stylish accessory, the 2016 standout 46 mm titanium model is clearly built to meet the high demands of its underwater vocation. Large surfaces ensure easy readability and high-tech specs include an edgy, red unidirectional rotating bezel. The latter frames a black dial with luminescent triple-facetted hands. The red- trimmed tip of the seconds hand highlights its role as an operating indicator and a vital feature of diver’s model.
Other key features one expects from a first-rate diver’s watch are all there: a tough and sturdy titanium case, water-resistance to 1,000 meters and a helium valve to equal out internal and external pressures in saturation diving conditions.
The rubber strap features an unexpected tone-on-tone central section and ribbed exterior that creates pleasing texture and color contrasts. The solid case-back bearing a scuba diver motif is a nod to this model’s maritime mission. And last but not least, the H-10 caliber with its 80-hour power reserve proves just as useful on land as below the sea.
In addition, the collection comprises 42 mm stainless steel versions that may also be fitted with a triple-row bracelet secured by a smart adjustment folding clasp, featuring a convenient and stylish diving extension. These models are available in two colors with a blue or black bezel (as well as matching dial and strap) to suit individual tastes. In an eye-catching salute to a proud tradition of diving heroes, the 2016 Khaki Navy Frogman watch comes with a dedicated packaging inspired by a typical navy porthole.
