A new white dial version of the Khaki Field Murph watch by Hamilton is expected to take the watch-collecting world by storm. But what about a bracelet-first for the black dial variant?
Based on its affordability and style alone, there are very few brands that can better what Hamilton offers in its Khaki Field Murph watch. The blockbuster film it featured in has played some part in boosting its popularity, no doubt, but its phenomenal build, its features and its size options make for one of the most compact, affordable and stylish field watch designs on the market right now. And it just gets better, because the brand with American roots has now released another addition to the Khaki Field Murph series, this time with a white dial inside the sweet spot 38mm case size, and with a black dial on a metal bracelet. Let’s explore some more…
There are two elements worth noting when introducing the two new Murph watches from Hamilton. One is that this manufacturer became renowned for its supply of tool watches to the military during the Second World War. The other thing to note about that brand is that it is revered as the ultimate watchmaker of filmmakers. Its timepieces have appeared in more than 500 films over the years. Some examples include The Martian, Men in Black, A Space Odyssey and, of course, Interstellar.
Downsizing
Interstellar spawned a genuine best-seller for Hamilton, with a 42mm film prop timepiece that played the role of a code-delivering watch. It was years before Hamilton made the watch an official release for enthusiasts to own. Its case was a near-on like-for-like design with similar dimensions, case and dial to the original. The winning feature was the secretive Morse code etched into the surface of the model’s seconds hand. But, like anything in life, not everyone was satisfied with the design. Some felt it was too large. So, in 2022, Hamilton answered the call, launching a 38mm model that dropped the Morse code detailing but, at the same time, re-thought the dimensions of the case, creating a more ergonomic fit for the smaller wrist.
This popular no-nonsense watch has been the Khaki line’s best-selling timepiece ever since and there are no prizes for guessing why. The only thing that left collectors baffled was why there had never been more versions of this genius design released, until now. The two new releases take the Murph from a single-piece design to a mini collection. They feature a brushed finished case, highly polished bevels, a compact 38mm size, and a height of 11.1mm.
Get Them Both
Fine details and finishings can be admired throughout the design. The 3.6mm push and pull crown has been beautifully polished and engraved with the Hamilton logo. The cases are both 100-meter water resistant and the strap options are versatile. All you need to do is match the lug width of either watch with any one of Hamilton’s straps to reconfigure the look of this timepiece. Personally, I’d love to see what this watch looks like on the classic NATO or Zulu strap, but it’s equally worth noting that even the black version of the new Murph watch comes with a glossy alligator leather strap. A debut for the Murph this time around, however, is the fact that the black model is now also available on a solid stainless steel bracelet. The three-link design boasts a mix of brushed and polished finishes and the links taper to 18mm at the clasp end. This feature gives the watch a better overall feel, giving the impression that it wears smaller. There are also three points of micro-adjustment on this bracelet clasp, proving particularly handy when you want to loosen or tighten the watch to accommodate the swelling or contracting of the wrist in humid or cold conditions.
The fact that the white dial version doesn’t yet come on a stainless steel strap means only one thing. Get them both. The bracelet isn’t yet available to purchase on its own as an additional either, so having both of the Murph watches in your collection is surely the only logical solution to the dilemma.
The Dial
The dial of the new Hamilton Khaki Field Murph watch, whether you’re looking at buying the black or the white version, has a clean, no-fuss layout. Designed for coherence and legibility, both options promise clarity and go without any unessential features like a date window. The unsaturated tones are a welcomed feature. I also love the beige luminous material on the hour markers and hands, though the white dial has brighter, fresher tones and the black dial is more muted in comparison. The surface of the white dial is subtly textured too, adding a sense of depth to the display, while the black version is done in a nice matte finish. The cathedral hands are the winning feature, of course, characterising the Khaki Field watch collection perfectly.
The Movement
The movement inside the new Hamilton Khaki Field Murph watches is one of the best movements among its competition. It’s the H-10 Calibre, which performs at a rate of 21,600 vibrations per hour. It also features both hacking and hand winding and provides a power reserve of 80 hours once fully wound. On top of that, you get a Nivachron balance spring, which means it can deal with temperature changes, shock and magnetism. The H-10 performs great inside its case and is showcased underneath a glass exhibition caseback.
What I love the most about the evolution of the Murph is that it tells a story. Everything about the Murph’s trajectory seems to be a direct response from Hamilton to its audience. It shows this watchmaker appreciates its faithful fan base and listens to them. It understands what the wearer really wants and that’s what is important. If you’d like more information on the new white and black Hamilton Khaki Field Murph watches, call and speak to a member of our Jura Watches sales team today on 01335 453453 or email us a question at help@jurawatches.co.uk.
