Antarctica Explorers
Paying tribute to our fearless adventurer Richard E.Byrd

The coldest place on our planet, with temperatures dropping below -60°C (-76°F), Antarctica is truly unlike anywhere else on Earth. It has fascinated explorers from all over the world since the late 1800s, marked by the first major expeditions to uncover the mysteries of the White Continent.

Among the myriad of fearless adventurers who dared to conquer the land of ice was Richard E. Byrd, an explorer, aviator and American national hero. Hamilton was by his side during his expedition to Antarctica in 1928.

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Richard E. Byrd was one of the greatest polar explorer of the century, a feat recognized by the American government when he was awarded the “Medal of Honor,” the highest recognition of achievement for heroism.

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Starting his journey as an officer in the U.S. Navy, Richard E. Byrd had the courage to explore desolate lands rarely seen by humans. In 1926, with Floyd Bennett as pilot, and Byrd acting as navigator, he achieved the first airplane journey over the North Pole with Hamilton by his side.

Though it is now believed that they fell short by 240 km, nonetheless, this pursuit made Byrd a national hero who contributed to a better understanding of the Antarctic ecosystem.

The early explorers spent months and sometimes years striving to discover the elusive continent of Antarctica. They faced incredibly difficult conditions with far less preparation and technology than we have today. Expedition watches played an essential role in keeping track of time on this beautiful yet unpredictable land.

While traversing the uncharted territory, Byrd needed reliable tools for navigation. His Hamilton 992 Pocket Watch was one of them. Engraved with Byrd’s name and expedition dates on the case back, the timepiece was a reliable companion during his Antarctica exploration.

The first part of our expedition to the Antarctic Peninsula makes a stop in Ushuaia, Argentina, the world's southernmost city and the gateway to Antarctica. Often referred to as the 'end of the world', it marks the beginning of our journey.

Two days later we reach the White Continent, after crossing the famous Drake Passage, one of the roughest waterways in the world. Ready to face anything, from stormy “Drake Shake” to peaceful “Drake Lake”, we set a course for adventure.

KHAKI AVIATION X-WIND AUTO CHRONO

Antarctica is known for its ice-covered mountains. While climbing the challenging peaks of the continent, the Khaki Aviation X-Wind Auto Chrono comes in handy. As mountaineering requires effort, strength and focus, a quick glance on this rugged watch keeps you on track when reaching for new heights. Blending with the icy blue waters, the Khaki Aviation X-Wind Auto Chrono is a durable adventure watch all its own.

KHAKI FIELD TITANIUM AUTO

Made for adventure enthusiasts, the Khaki Field Titanium is in its element when used in the most extreme conditions. A land of intense snowstorms and blizzards, Antarctica meets us with rapidly changing weather. When caught in a storm, there is no time to lose. Lightweight, durable and equipped with an ultra-readable dial, the Khaki Field Titanium stands strong in the face of challenges.

The Antarctica expeditions today are very different from their beginnings. Founded on the discoveries made by earlier adventurers, the present day explorations employ the most advanced equipment and adventure gear. And still, Antarctica never ceases to challenge!

With their reputation as robust and adventure-ready gear, the Hamilton outdoor watches are up to the task when used to time the most extraordinary journeys to the world’s most remote destinations.