If you're a fan of the Hamilton Khaki Field range, you probably know all about the Murph. Introduced to most of us through Interstellar, the original 42mm Murph has been a favourite among watch enthusiasts for its iconic design and cinematic connection. Earlier this year, Hamilton brought out a more wearable 38mm version of the Murph, and now, they've added two new variations: a sleek white dial and an updated bracelet option. Having spent some time with these new 38mm models, I wanted to share my thoughts on what's new, how they stack up against the original, and why one particular version might just be my favourite.
The Specs: Still Classic, Now More Diverse
Let's start with some key specifications to set the scene. Both new Murph models feature a 38mm stainless steel case, are 11.1mm thick, with a lug-to-lug of 44.7mm, and both feature sapphire crystal glass. Powering the Hamilton Khaki Field Murph 38mm is the H-10 automatic movement as seen through the open caseback – which, as you know, I’m a huge fan of! This movement has an incredible 80-hour power reserve, housed within an 11.1mm thickness. Honestly amazing! The dial comes in either black (RRP £935) or the new white variation (RRP £865). Strap options include a stainless steel bracelet or a leather band.
At first glance, these stats might sound very familiar, as the case dimensions and design are identical to the original 38mm Murph released in 2023. However, the introduction of a white dial and a bracelet option offers something new for both seasoned collectors and those just starting their journey into mechanical watches.
A Nod to Interstellar, But Something's Missing...
When you think of the Murph, Interstellar immediately springs to mind. The original 42mm version played a key role in the film, symbolising the connection between father and daughter through time. While these new changes retain the essence of the original Murph, the one detail missing is the subtle “Eureka” morse code that was engraved on the second hand of the 42mm version. As a fan of the film, I can't help but feel a little nostalgic for that cinematic touch, and I was hoping it would have been hidden elsewhere in the timepiece, but after searching for a good while, I had no such luck in finding it. However, if you’re more focused on functionality and wearability, the absence of the Eureka morse code won’t detract from the overall experience.
The White Dial Steals the Show
While the black dial remains timeless and true to the Murph’s origins, it’s the new white dial that has really caught my eye. I’ve always been a fan of white dials, and Hamilton has delivered here with a fresh, clean aesthetic that feels modern while still retaining the rugged charm of a field watch. The numerals on the white dial are big and bold - something we've come to expect in a Hamilton model - and they feature a remarkable tan colour, giving it a much different personality from its darker counterpart. The Super-Luminova on these dials is truly outstanding and incredibly vibrant.
The white dial variant brings a touch of versatility to the Khaki Field lineup. It’s not as formal as a dress watch, yet not as casual as a typical field watch—it's somewhere in between, which makes it incredibly wearable. If I were to pick between the two, I’d go for the white dial any day. It’s elegant, understated, and simply refreshing.
Bracelet or Leather? The Choice Is Yours
The new 38mm Murph also comes with the option of a stainless steel bracelet, which, to me, adds a whole new level of versatility. While the leather strap on the previous models had a certain vintage charm, the bracelet makes the watch feel more substantial and even a bit dressier. Regarding the bracelet; Hamilton has added polished strips to the clasp, which look great out of the box but will inevitably scratch easily. Given the brushed, rugged nature of the rest of the watch, it feels like a strange design choice, one I’m not too sure I understand.
I've never been a fan of leather straps, mainly because they always seemed too stiff and never quite fit right. However, a recent conversation with a fellow enthusiast at a watch event made me rethink my position. He pointed out that a leather strap needs to be "broken in" like a quality pair of shoes. It got me thinking. The strap on my first watch – my Oris Artelier Skeleton – is a leather strap, and it fits my wrist like a dream, no doubt thanks to constantly wearing it when I was younger. Maybe I haven’t given leather straps enough of a chance, and having had that conversation about leather shoes, I kind of want the Murph on the leather strap!
The Khaki Field Murph vs. The Khaki Field Expedition
It’s hard not to compare the new Murph models to another favourite of mine, the Hamilton Khaki Field Expedition. While both watches share that field-watch DNA, the Expedition leans more heavily into its rugged roots. The compass bezel is a handy feature for those who want a more utility-driven timepiece, whereas the Murph, especially in the 38mm size, feels more refined and suited to urban adventures. The bezels are night and day between these models – the Murph having a more polished bezel, while the Expedition has a brushed steel compass bezel, which definitely doesn’t show scratches as much as a polished bezel would. This makes me think the Murph is more of a dress watch, while the Expedition is more for… well… expeditions!
Key Specifications
- Model: Khaki Field Murph
- Dial: Black, and White
- Case Material: Stainless Steel
- Case Width: 38mm
- Case Thickness: 11.1mm
- Lug to Lug: 44.7mm
- Movement: H-10 with 80 hours of power reserve
- Strap: Stainless Steel or Leather
- RRP: £935 black, £865 white
The new Hamilton Khaki Field Murph 38mm in white is, in my view, the standout of the new releases. It balances ruggedness with elegance in a way that makes it an incredibly versatile watch. Whether on a bracelet or leather, it has a unique charm that can be dressed up or down. While there are a few quirks—like the polished clasp—I believe these are minor details in what is otherwise a stunning addition to the Hamilton lineup. It feels like the Murph is becoming its own sub-genre of Hamilton watches, similar to how the Seamaster and Aquaterra are their own sub-genres of Omega. I’m very keen to expand my Hamilton collection and perhaps this Murph is my next Hamilton purchase!
