Hamilton 308 Bomb Timer "Device"

Technology and war go hand-in-hand, and nothing illustrates that more than China Lake. From the 1940s to the present day, nearly every piece of airborne ordnance used by the U.S. military—and scores of other weapons we can only speculate about, from drones to bioweapons—was developed in the 19,600 square mile facility known as the Secret City. Along with these commonly-used instruments of destruction, China Lake also developed equipment for more covert warfare.

Since the First World War, Hamilton had provided wristwatches and other timekeeping instruments to the U.S. military. Aside from the watches strapped to the wrists of the soldiers and the instruments mounted in the cockpits of their fighters, Hamilton also developed top-secret “bomb timers." One of these was the 308 Bomb Timer, developed for China Lake. 

The 3801-308 device was developed in the 1960s under a classified contract with the U.S. Navy. This device was used (in ultimate James Bond fashion) to detonate covert explosive devices. It was used most extensively by the SEALS in the Vietnam War.

According to recently unclassified documents, the 308 Bomb Timer was part of a series of 308 “remote firing device models” whose purpose was “to provide stand-off capability in the firing of explosive charges.” Anything could be an explosive device—from binoculars to canteens to flashlights and even cameras.

When looking at it front-on, there’s nothing to distinguish it from other 24-hour military watches of the period (aside from the open worked dial, of course - the only other example of which we've seen in the brand's museum!). The back of the case, too, looks relatively harmless—but the plastic covering on the case-back conceals two electrical contacts. According to the Hamilton Museum website, an electrical charge is created to these contacts when the hands reached 24:00, and when wired up to your favorite high explosive...just think of your favorite Michael Bay movie.

Very few of these watches have surfaced on the market, due to the fact that not many were produced, and those that were used in warfare were no doubt blown up!

We count ourselves very fortunate that we were able to get our hands on one that’s completely intact.

Our Pledge

Analog:Shift stands behind the authenticity of our products in perpetuity.

Condition

Since our pieces are vintage or pre-owned, please expect wear & patina from usage and age. Please read each item description and examine all product images.

Warranty

We back each Analog:Shift vintage timepiece with a one-year mechanical warranty from the date of purchase.

International Buyers

Please contact us prior to purchase for additional details on shipping and payment options.

All of our watches include complementary insured shipping within the 50 states.

Most of our products are on hand and will ship directly from our headquarters in New York City. In some cases, watches will be shipped directly from one of our authorized partners.

We generally ship our products via FedEx, fully insured, within 5 business days of purchase. An adult signature is required for receipt of all packages for insurance purposes. Expedited shipping is available at an additional cost. We are also happy to hand deliver your purchase in Manhattan or you may pick it up at our showroom.

Returns must be sent overnight or by priority international delivery, fully insured and paid for by the customer. A restocking fee may apply. Watches must be returned in the same condition as initially shipped.

We welcome international buyers, please contact us prior to purchase for additional details on shipping and payment options.