Hamilton Khaki Aviation QNE 44 (H76515533)

With casual, smart, men's, ladies', unisex, thirties and seventies-style models, it will be difficult not to find a Hamilton watch to your taste among the new releases for 2014! The brand is on all fronts, with ever-assertive creativity. Over and above the Khaki on which it has built a good part of its success and reputation, Hamilton is exploring new horizons, particularly in dress watches. "We're proud of Hamilton's dual nationality. 'American Spirit - Swiss Precision' is a great source of inspiration in the development of our watches," explains Sylvain Dolla, CEO.

The new Bagley ladies' models are the first to catch the eye. The timepiece draws inspiration from a 1939 watch. Its shape is unique, due to the differing heights of the horizontal and vertical edges of the case and the combination of straight and curved lines. The sides of the case extend into elegant handles. Equipped with a slightly rounded multi-level dial and featuring a central padded-effect panel, the timepiece comes in two sizes with a wide variety of straps. Fitted with a quartz movement, prices will start at 430 euros.

Dare to wear the Flintridge!

It's likely to take people a little more time to adjust to the Flintridge, on the other hand. Its distinctive design, 1930s look and dial protection all make for an audacious watch. The outer surface of the protective cover features a sunburst effect finish, simply revealing seven diamonds at 6 o'clock in the ladies' version. The men's version is slightly more compact and bulky. It features a date window at 6 o'clock and a day window at midday, with a Paris stud finish.

On the dial of both models there is an echo of the dial finish (sunburst or Paris studs), along with very Thirties-style hour markers and hands. This Flintridge is fun, original and unconventional, with a touch of aesthetic daring that's brilliantly carried off by Hamilton. Alas, there won't be enough for everybody: each of these watches is one of a limited edition of just 999.

Modern Vintage

In the same vintage spirit, the Pan Europ presents itself as unashamedly modern! Although the original model dates back to 1971, the 2014 version boasts an exclusive automatic movement with an 80-hour power reserve. The circular dial is surrounded by angular lugs; the whole frames a rotating bezel with an aluminium ring, giving a rather bullhead shape. There will be four models on offer, in grey and blue shades, with assorted Nato or perforated leather straps.

Two new, more contemporary RailRoad models recall Hamilton's train-related history. Each one comes in a Chrono or Small Second version. The RailRoad Auto Chrono features a roller with a tachymeter that uses a new movement, also new for the RailRoad Small Second, developed in-house. The watches have plenty of polished brushed steel, offering a particularly attractive contrast to the hazel brown or blue tachymeter. The Small Second has a price tag of under 1000 euros, while the chrono version weighs in at 1495 euros.

Khaki - a safe investment

But where would Hamilton be without its Khaki? This year, Baselworld has two new radically different versions on offer. The first is a celebration of skeletonisation. It features the collection's famous "X" across the dial. Beneath it, the movement is almost entirely visible, including the balance, cleverly positioned at midday.

At the other extreme, the Khaki X-Wind Limited Edition sports a sophisticated look and a drift angle calculator to meet the needs of aviation fans. "Aviation and films are the two key interests reflected in Hamilton watches' DNA," admits CEO Sylvain Dolla. The Khaki X-Wind 2014 limited edition comprises four models whose most obvious difference is their dial colours: two versions are available, in either brushed black and brushed dark grey or sunburst silver and brushed dark grey. 1,999 numbered watches for each model will be on offer, at 800 euros apiece.

The ultimate version of the Khaki is the fruit of cooperation between the brand and aerobatics champion and squadron pilot Nicolas Ivanoff. Its styling draws inspiration from aircraft and cockpit dashboard design. The watch includes a two-directional rotating flange, activated by a bezel that can record a countdown. This can also be detached and be placed on a dashboard. With a 60-hour power reserve, there will be 1,999 Khaki Takeoff Auto Chrono Limited Edition watches for sale at 2500 euros each, in a luxurious wooden case replicating the very essence of a dashboard.