I recently acquired a Hamilton Khaki Aviation Pilot Pioneer online from an authorized dealer, attracted by a significant discount and prompt shipping. My local authorized dealer, unfortunately, never had this model in stock, a detail that becomes relevant later.
Khaki Aviation Pilot Pioneer | H76719530
Hands-On: The Hamilton Khaki Aviation Pilot Pioneer
However, I’ve encountered an unexpected issue with my new Hamilton Aviation Pilot Pioneer. The bezel, instead of the standard 60 clicks one would anticipate, features only 48 clicks. Intriguingly, I stumbled upon a now-deleted comment in another online review, which mentioned receiving confirmation from Hamilton Switzerland that this 48-click bezel was indeed a factory error and should be the standard 60 clicks. According to this comment, Hamilton was supposedly offering bezel replacements under warranty.
Fratello photo
Seeking clarification, I contacted my local authorized dealer. They stated they were unaware of any such bezel issue and, since I didn’t purchase the watch from them, declined to investigate further.
Subsequently, I reached out to both Hamilton USA and the SGUS Service Center. The standard response was to “send us the watch, and we’ll take a look.” However, recalling a previous unsatisfactory experience sending a defective Mido watch for service, I am hesitant to pursue this option.
This leaves me questioning the veracity of the deleted internet comment. Was it accurate in stating that the 48-click bezel on the Hamilton Aviation Pilot Pioneer is a factory defect? I am reaching out to the community: Do any other owners of this Hamilton Aviation Pilot Pioneer watch have the same 48-click bezel? And if this is indeed an error, is it worthwhile to send the watch in for a bezel upgrade? Perhaps it’s merely my horological OCD prompting this concern.
Beyond this bezel query, I must emphasize that the Hamilton Khaki Aviation Pilot Pioneer is a truly impressive timepiece and offers exceptional value. It beautifully fulfills two specific desires in my watch collection: a hand-wound movement and a small seconds complication, all while boasting a rich aviation heritage. I am planning to replace the somewhat underwhelming stock strap, which feels a bit papery on the inside and has a taper that visually enlarges the already substantial watch case, with a Hirsch Ranger strap for enhanced comfort and aesthetics.
