Technical Archive

Hamilton
Chrono-Matic H51616731— lug 20mm

Hamilton Chrono-Matic H51616731: 20mm strap. Alligator, box calf, shell cordovan and rubber, cut and stitched in Milano. Choose your leather.

Chrono-Matic 50 Auto Chrono Limited Edition

Artisanal Note

"This model requires a precise 20mm lug width to preserve the original sartorial balance."

Technical Specifications

Hamilton H51616731
Lug Width
20 mm

The essential strap measurement.

Browse 20mm straps →
Reference

H51616731

Movement

Hamilton caliber H-31 Hours, Minutes, Small Seconds | Date | Chronograph

The Heritage

The Hamilton Chrono-Matic H51616731 features the Caliber H-31, an automatic chronograph movement with hours, minutes, small seconds, and date window. The stainless steel case measures 48.5mm in diameter with a 20mm lug width, offering 100 meters of water resistance. This reissue reinterprets the 1969 Caliber 11 heritage with a decentered crown at 9 o'clock and asymmetric layout, designed for daily urban timekeeping.

FAQ

What is the lug width of the Hamilton Chrono-Matic H51616731?

The lug width of the Hamilton Chrono-Matic H51616731 is exactly 20mm. This measurement is determined by the proportion between the case diameter (48.5mm) and the strap anatomy. Verifying compatibility is simple: position a caliper at the attachment point and measure the perpendicular distance between the two shoulders of the spring bar. An incorrect measurement results in total incompatibility with the watch's bayonet system.

What is the best strap for the Hamilton Chrono-Matic H51616731?

The ideal material depends on use and personal style. A cognac alligator strap enhances the asymmetric character of the case and ages beautifully; fine and compact calf leather offers a middle ground between elegance and durability; cotton NATO straps in natural dyes add a dimension of sophisticated casualness without compromise. Black FKM rubber straps perfectly tune the watch with its futuristic 1960s DNA.

How do you change the strap on a Hamilton Chrono-Matic H51616731?

The H51616731 uses a bayonet spring bar for strap attachment. With the watch facing upward, locate the small lateral slot on the spring bar (usually visible at 3 o'clock and 9 o'clock). Insert a flat and thin tool (a strap removal tool or small knife) into the slot and press inward to unlock the spring bar. Remove the old strap and insert a new one of the same width (20mm) until you feel the spring bar retention click.

Can I mount an aftermarket strap on the Hamilton Chrono-Matic H51616731?

Yes, provided the strap is exactly compatible with the lug width (20mm) and the attachment system (bayonet spring bar). Milano Straps offers a selection of artisanal 20mm straps in various materials and finishes, all tested for mechanical compatibility. We recommend straps with superior build quality compared to average aftermarket options, such as those custom crafted at Atelier Casati Milano.

What is the lifespan of a leather strap on the Hamilton Chrono-Matic H51616731?

The lifespan of a leather strap depends on the material, use, and climate conditions. A high-quality artisanal alligator or calf leather strap, with ordinary care (drying after rain, periodic cleaning), lasts between 3 and 5 years of daily use. The leather develops a natural patina that increases aesthetic value over time. Factors such as extreme humidity, prolonged sun exposure, or negligence in maintenance significantly reduce this lifespan. FKM rubber straps, on the other hand, maintain stable performance for 7-10 years without aesthetic deterioration.