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).
Once these final 25 units are claimed, The Operator will be retired permanently.
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
Pre-Order Details (Final Production Run)
By placing a pre-order for The Operator, you are reserving one of the final 25 pieces in this exclusive 50-unit edition, built in collaboration with the 19th Special Forces Group (Airborne).
Final Production Run: This is the last and final batch. Once all 25 units are spoken for, the Operator will be permanently retired.
Application Required: A short application is required to verify affiliation with 2/19 before purchase.
Estimated Delivery: Ships in mid-April 2026.
Final Sale Policy: All deposits are fully refundable until the remaining balance is charged on March 31, 2026. After that date — once production begins on April 1, 2026 — all pre-orders are considered final and non-refundable.
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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.