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Hamilton Intra-Matic Auto Chronograph vs Stauer 1920s Retrograde
Hamilton's chronograph meets Stauer's dress watch
Quick Verdict
The Stauer 1920s Retrograde ($100–$150) delivers Quartz technology in the tier below the Hamilton Intra-Matic Auto Chronograph ($2,500–$5,000). The 1920s Retrograde measures 43mm and is rated 100m (10 ATM), as listed by Stauer. The Intra-Matic Auto Chronograph justifies its premium with Swiss Made heritage and Automatic H-31. Both represent excellent choices in the luxury watch category.
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Specifications Compared
| Feature | Hamilton Intra-Matic Auto Chronograph | Stauer 1920s Retrograde |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $2,500–$5,000 | $100–$150 |
| Case Size | 40mm | 43mm |
| Movement | Automatic H-31 | Quartz |
| Caliber Type | Valjoux-Based Automatic Chronograph | Quartz |
| Power Reserve | 60 Hours | Battery |
| Water Resistance | 100m (10 ATM) | 100m (10 ATM), as listed by Stauer |
| Crystal | Sapphire (Domed) | Mineral crystal |
| Case Material | Stainless Steel | Gold-tone stainless steel (listing photo shows a gold-tone finish; Amazon spec table says stainless steel) |
| Origin | Swiss Made | Stauer (USA brand, imported) |
Category-by-Category Analysis
Design & Aesthetics
Hamilton's design language vs Stauer's approach
The Hamilton Intra-Matic Auto Chronograph features a Stainless Steel case at 40mm with Sapphire (Domed) protection. The Stauer 1920s Retrograde offers Gold-tone stainless steel (listing photo shows a gold-tone finish; Amazon spec table says stainless steel) construction at 43mm with Mineral crystal. Both represent their brand's distinct design philosophy and heritage.
Movement & Performance
Automatic H-31 vs Quartz
The Intra-Matic Auto Chronograph runs the Automatic H-31 (Valjoux-Based Automatic Chronograph, 60 Hours power reserve) at 28,800 vph (4 Hz) frequency. The 1920s Retrograde uses the Quartz (Quartz, Battery reserve) at standard. The Intra-Matic Auto Chronograph edges ahead on power reserve.
Wearability & Fit
40mm vs 43mm — different wrist presence
At 40mm, the Intra-Matic Auto Chronograph wears more compactly on smaller wrists compared to the 1920s Retrograde at 43mm. Water resistance differs: 100m (10 ATM) vs 100m (10 ATM), as listed by Stauer.
Value & Cost of Ownership
Stauer sits in the lower tier
The Hamilton Intra-Matic Auto Chronograph sits at $2,500–$5,000 and the Stauer 1920s Retrograde at $100–$150. On the specs that outlast any price: the Intra-Matic Auto Chronograph uses Sapphire (Domed) with 60 Hours, against Mineral crystal and Battery on the 1920s Retrograde. Service intervals are typically 5-7 years for both.
Water Resistance
100m (10 ATM) vs 100m (10 ATM), as listed by Stauer
The Intra-Matic Auto Chronograph is rated to 100m (10 ATM) while the 1920s Retrograde handles 100m (10 ATM), as listed by Stauer. Both offer identical water resistance ratings.
Our Verdict
Hamilton
Intra-Matic Auto Chronograph
Choose the Hamilton Intra-Matic Auto Chronograph if you prioritize Valjoux-Based Automatic Chronograph engineering, Swiss Made craftsmanship, and 100m (10 ATM) water resistance. At $2,500–$5,000, it delivers Automatic H-31 with 60 Hours power reserve.
Check Price on AmazonStauer
1920s Retrograde
Choose the Stauer 1920s Retrograde if you value Quartz technology, Stauer (USA brand, imported) heritage, and 43mm proportions. At $100–$150, the Quartz with Battery power reserve makes it a compelling choice.
Check Price on AmazonThe Bottom Line
The Hamilton Intra-Matic Auto Chronograph and Stauer 1920s Retrograde represent two distinct approaches to fine watchmaking — the Hamilton bringing Swiss Made tradition while Stauer delivers Stauer (USA brand, imported) engineering.
Frequently Asked Questions
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How This Page Was Made
Our comparisons are generated from a hand-maintained specification database and reviewed under our editorial standards. We use AI tools to assemble pages from that data. We don’t invent specs: every number traces back to the database, and when we correct an entry, the fix is applied site-wide. As an Amazon Associate, The Horologist earns from qualifying purchases.