Hot Take: The Hamilton PSR 74 — A Faithful New Version Of The Pulsar Cushion
The trend of rereleasing vintage digital watches continues with the new Hamilton PSR 74. During the past several years, Casio, Girard-Perregaux, and Hamilton have led the charge with faithful yet modern renditions of their ’70s digital creations. These watches blend simple displays with retro-futuristic cases and bracelets. The new PSR follows this form but adds wearability.
In 2020, Hamilton recalled its digital history with the PSR. This watch was inspired by the legendary Pulsar from 1970. Roger Moore wore a similar model, the P2 2900, in the 1973 James Bond film Live and Let Die. It was a big deal! Since 2020, Hamilton has introduced several colorways for the 40.8mm by 34.7mm watch. Now a smaller and slightly different version, the PSR 74, is available.
The Hamilton PSR 74
The new PSR is inspired by the second-generation Pulsar Cushion from 1974. It’s notable for its integrated bracelet that tapers to a butterfly folding clasp and fits like a bangle. Plus, the case size is unaltered from the original at 30.9mm wide by 25.6mm long. It’s also just 12.4mm thick. The watch comes in a brushed stainless steel or yellow gold PVD option. It even has a 100m depth rating.
More functionality
Whereas the original model had one button, the PSR 74 has buttons on both sides of the case. This allows the wearer to view the date and time simultaneously. Also, the time can be displayed in a 24-hour format if desired. Hamilton kept the original pixelated digital display and upgraded it with modern technology using a blend of LCD and OLED. Finally, the watch uses a sapphire crystal.
Analog touches
Interestingly, the PSR 74 has a traditional solid screw-in case back. It is adorned with a space-inspired image showing the orbits of, presumably, planets around a sun. The H-40e quartz movement sits inside and has a battery life of three to five years.
Final thoughts
The Hamilton PSR 74 is a cool release, and I like the fact that it is more wearable. I tried the original PSR, and for someone with a smaller wrist like mine, it was too large and bulky. This looks like the perfect retro companion but with modern reliability and utility. The stainless model retails for €795 and the PVD for €895. I think that’s in line with Hamilton’s pricing and feels fair. What are your thoughts on these retro digital releases? Would you consider adding one to your collection?
