MODEL 1 Special Forces - The Operator
Final Spring 2026 Production Run
This is your final opportunity to reserve The Operator — a limited-edition custom timepiece based on our Model 1 Sullivan and developed in partnership with the 2nd Battalion, 19th Special Forces Group (Airborne).
The Operator is built on Hampden’s Model 1 platform, featuring a patented removable casecap® with your choice of exhibition or engraved caseback. The custom caseback design was created in collaboration with members of the 2/19 Special Forces Group, symbolizing Rhode Island (anchor), West Virginia (mountains), Ohio (buckeye), and the Minuteman at center.
Limited to 50 total pieces.
Specifications
Movement: Swiss Made Sellita 279-1. Automatic self-winding mechanical with ball bearing rotor, 38 hour reserve, 31 jewels.
Glass: Sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating. Sapphire exhibition caseback.
Functions: Hours, minutes, small second, power reserve and date indicator.
Dial: Matte dial with sun-ray embossed small second sub-dial at 9. Applied Arabic index with printed second track and Super-LumiNova Grade A markers at each hour. Skeleton hands with Super-LumiNova Grade A tips.
Case: 42mm diameter
Crown: Oversized stainless steel onion crown with embossed Hampden logo.
Bands: Brushed 22mm wide three link stainless steel bracelet with deployment clasp and easily removable double pin system. Includes an additional Rifle Green rubber watch band; easily interchangeable with quick-release (no tools required).
Water-Resistance: 5 ATM / 50 meters / 164 feet
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Introducing The Operator
Introducing The Operator
The watch face is a Rifle Green (the Special Forces regimental colors) an unmistakable symbol of tradition, unity, and excellence for those who know.
Raised crossed arrows at 12 o' clock, a power reserve complication, and a date window, deliver practical utility with effortless style.
Each watch includes both a durable stainless-steel bracelet and a versatile rubber watch band; built for all facets of life - from the embassy to the office.
Every detail has been thoughtfully engineered to capture the essence of the operator. It's more than a watch; it's a declaration of identity and purpose.
American Design; Swiss Made
Designed at Hampden's historic Chicago factory and Swiss Made in La Chaux-de-fonds.
Interchangeable bands
Built for all facets of life with two easily interchangeable bands. No tools required.
Hampden Watch &
U.S. Army Special Forces
For over a century, Hampden Watch has embodied the pioneering spirit that built American industry, crafting timeless pieces in the heart of Chicago. As a fourth-generation, family-owned and operated business, we bring both tradition and innovation to each watch, honoring our family’s legacy and the heros who inspire us.
A Nod to Tradition
The Model 1 is Hampden's watch that serves as basis for "The Operator". It is an exceptional timepiece with a distinctive removable caseback. This innovation offers wearers the choice of showcasing either the custom laser-engraved design or a transparent crystal back, revealing is elegant and precise Swiss automatic movement.
Months of collaboration between Hampden and 2nd Battalion, 19th Special Forces Group (Airborne), have resulted in a laser-engraved design that captures the spirit and unity of 2/19: The anchor represents Rhode Island, steadfastly anchoring the unit. The mountains symbolize West Virginia, the backbone of 2/19. The buckeye reflects Ohio's strength and resilience. At the center stands The Minuteman, embodying the proud tradition of the National Guard.
Before
After
"Audentes Fortuna Iuvat" - Fortune Favors the Bold
"Audentes Fortuna Iuvat" - Fortune Favors the Bold
Each watch is engraved with a unique serial number, crafted to tell the story of its owner: The first two digits represent the year the wearer joined 2/19. The next three digits are a serial number, either chosen by the owner or assigned sequentially. The final two characters are the owners initials. These details are logged in a ledger maintained at Battalion Headquarters. Owners will sign beside their number, cementing their place in 2/19's legacy.