Hamilton Cronografo Ventura al quarzo *men in black ii - 2002* (24 mm) quadrante nero/pelle nera

While watching the movie MIB International, my eyes caught sight of the Hamilton Ventura on Chris Hemsworth's wrist. I believe the model h24411732. An internet search showed many results, but as much as I found it a beautiful watch, I couldn't see myself forking out so much money for such a simple looking dial. A few months went by, Covid19 lock down got to me and I required retail therapy. Another internet search gave me new results, among those results was a link to First Class Watches (FCW), whom I'd not heard of before. What enticed me to follow the link was the product photo showing the Ventura Chrono model h24412732, which had a lot more going on, on the dial. Sure it is more expensive but hey.

It wasn't an immediate impulse buy for me. As I try keeping a level head. So, I bookmarked the link. Also the FCW website was showing the Ventura Chrono as not in stock but ordered upon request, as I found out from a very quick reply to an email query. I had another look at some other retailers listing this same model, Ventura Chrono h24412732, but those retailers didn't inspire the confidence I got from FCW website and the limited but fast communication I'd already had.

The Watch:
The watch comes in a box within a box. The outer box is a near black (blueish) tough card with Hamilton embellished on the top. Inside is an appealing nice wooden, perhaps bamboo box, again with Hamilton embellished on top. Inside this box is the cushioning etc for the Watch.

Though prior to purchase I'd investigated the the dimensions of the watch, when I opened the box I found the watch a little dainty and wondered if I'd purchased a ladies model accidentally. A quick check of the invoice and online showed I had the correct model. In the days that have passed, I've grown accustomed to the size. The strap also at first seemed a little narrow in certain lighting, but this I've grown to like and be accustomed to.

The leather strap and metal clasp combination, I was unfamiliar with but with time I'm sure I'll get the hang of it. My wrists are thin for a man. When on my wrist, the flared parts coming out of 10-11 and 7-9 O'clock, stick out and may get caught on garments etc. I've not worn the watch too often (given lock down). So, I've not had enough opportunity to test this theory out. People with wider wrists may not have this problem as the flares will comfortably nestle into the leather strap.

Overall the watch is light to wear, though it does feels substantial. The leather has a quality feel with a lustre and the metals have a glossy shine that won't disappoint.

On the underside, there is little room for engraving a message. Though ample space for several initials.

The purchase:
The FCW website is well laid out with all vital information in view. I chose to use the finance option and this process was a breeze. I'd set aside some time to work through this online purchase but in the end I had time to spare. Within moment's I'd bought a luxurious watch.

Customer Service experience:
Prior to placing an order, I emailed FCW with my queries. After placing my order but yet to receive my watch I emailed through some more queries. Every time FCW replied within a couple of hours. There responses were always patient and polite. There was no change in their demeanor between pre-sales and after-sales. i.e. some other retailers have less than patient and polite after-sales ethos.

My watch arrived a couple of days later than advertised, given the Pandemic circumstances this was understandable. When I contacted FCW to chase it up, they were quick to react and reassure that they'd not forgotten about me.

All in all an enjoyable experience.

I first saw the Hamiltin Ventura in 2019. I was captivated by its clean lines and old style elegance. To me it looked the sort of watch I'd have seen in Flash Gordon's wrist in the old b&w classic series. An attempt from those days to look futuristic while incorporating the art deco lines of the 30's. I have coverted one ever since. With the arrival of the Ventura Chrono I was even more captivated. This was the watch that Captain Kirk or Blakes 7's commanding officer must have. The black face and silver dials gave it a futuristic look yet still housed within that old style art deco elegance. I could envisage someone speaking into that watch to say "beam me up" or "full phasers in my command".
Anyway I found myself in a position to purchase the watch so did some research into reputable watch/jewellery dealers. In my research First Class kept coming up. I mailed them and the whole deal was done in 24hrs and I had my watch within 48hrs. Excellent custoner service, really interested in assisting me fulfill my desire of owning one of these fantastic watches. A phenomenal discount was followed by numerous emails to ensure I got the correct watch and was happy with the price and service. As I said the watch was on my wrist within 48hrs. Now I can happily sit on my sofa with Buck Rodgers re-runs on, looking at my new watch and imagining myself on the bridge of some spaceship battling beyond the stars