The Legend of the Hamilton PSR
Hamilton watches are a brand known to be seen on the silver screen. With over 500 movies featuring a Hamilton watch, there’s no question the brand has some iconic designs to go with such a prestigious industry. One watch in the Hamilton lineup has an extensive history on the big screen and a unique aesthetic that gives off a futuristic/sci-fi vibe. That watch is the Hamilton PSR.
We know what you’re thinking: "The PSR is just a digital watch.” In reality, it’s so much more than that. The Original PSR, formerly the Hamilton Pulsar Time Computer, was revealed on May 6th, 1970, would be the world's first digital watch with an LCD, and would be released in 1972. The name “Pulsar” references the pulsating neutron stars that emit beams at high frequencies, referencing the bright red LCD and the beam-like numerals. The original Pulsar Time Computer was released in limited quantities (400 pieces) and featured an 18k yellow gold case and bracelet and was an accurate representation of luxury due to the use of yellow gold and the new technology cased inside the watch. Not to mention, it cost $2100 in 1972, which equals out to $15,000 today.
The design of the Pulsar Time Computer was more square but featured the same luminous red LCD numerals as the modern-day PSR. The aesthetic for the PSR wouldn’t come to fruition until the release of the Hamilton Pulsar P2 in 1973, where we see a more rounded and chunky display of digital technology and a more futuristic design, and implemented a much more affordable material for the case and bracelet, stainless steel. The change in case and bracelet material would drop prices from $2100 ($15,000 today) to $275 ($2,100 today), making it much more affordable.
The Pulsar P2 had its time on the big screen, seen on the wrist of Roger Moore in the Bond classic, Live and Let Die. For those who like to watch movies and watch spot, the Pulsar can be found in the opening scene; James (Roger Moore) is winding a watch with a futuristic or spy-esque watch on his wrist—a Hamilton-Pulsar P2 2900. There is a knock on the door, and James presses the button on his Pulsar to illuminate the red LCD, and the time displays 5:48 am. The Pulsar P2 2900 was a fantastic watch to feature in a James Bond film due to its stealthy and secretive aesthetic, and it blends well with the franchise and its use of unique and convenient gadgets.
Fast forward to the present day and the re-release of the Hamilton PSR, perfectly capturing the essence of its predecessor, the Hamilton Pulsar P2 from 1973. The resurgence of the PSR followed in the footsteps of the Pulsar P2 with the same popularity and buzz upon release and is a watch that feels fantastic on the wrist. Many overlook the PSR without realizing how much of an impact it had on the evolution of watchmaking, and it will remain a crucial piece of horological history for years. For more information or to check one out for yourself, the Hamilton PSR is available through Canada Watch House. Click here for more info.