Hamilton Presents! A Celebration of the Creators Behind Filmmaking

“Hamilton Behind the Camera Awards”──When Harrison Ford, standing on a stage adorned with these words, said, "I am grateful to Hamilton for establishing this award," the venue erupted in applause.

The "Behind the Camera Awards (BTCA)" are presented to creators involved in filmmaking, such as directors, prop masters, costume designers, and editors – essentially, an award to honor the unsung heroes of the silver screen.


The 2012 awards honored filmmakers behind this year's notable films, including Claudio Miranda, cinematographer for "Life of Pi," Sharon Seymour, production designer for "Argo," and Pietro Scalia, editor for "Prometheus."


The recipients were not limited to blockbuster films. Benh Zeitlin, director of "Beasts of the Southern Wild," which depicted a world of magic realism inspired by the New Orleans floods, also received an award. The human drama "The Intouchables," a major hit in France, won for Best Foreign Language Film. Omar Sy, who received the Best Actor award at the 37th César Awards for his role in this film, took the stage and captivated the audience with his witty speech.


Among the producers honored were Belén Atienza and Álvaro Augustín for "The Impossible," which depicted the grief and resilience of a family caught in the Sumatra-Andaman earthquake tsunami.
All of these films garnered significant attention this year, making it clear why the BTC is often called "the gateway to the Oscars."

"I am grateful to Hamilton for recognizing that we are essential and indispensable in filmmaking," said Andrew M. Segal, prop master for "The Amazing Spider-Man," in his speech. The role of a prop master involves preparing everything from character-specific items to general props and everyday objects.

"Every prop helps define the characters. Of course, from the watches the characters wear to their personal belongings, nothing can be overlooked," Andrew explained.

"We usually don't get the spotlight, so it's incredibly gratifying and an honor to have an award that celebrates the contributions of so many staff members," said Judianna Makovsky, who was responsible for the costumes in the 2012 blockbuster "The Hunger Games."

"Filmmaking involves a vast number of people and requires immense time and effort, so an award that acknowledges that is truly wonderful."

Pietro Scalia, editor for "Prometheus," is an acclaimed film editor who won an Academy Award for Best Film Editing for "JFK." He stated, "The most important thing in editing is to keep the audience engaged. My role is to ensure the story flows while keeping the audience entertained."

Harrison Ford presented the trophy and a Ventura watch to veteran film editor Michael Kahn.


These are artisans who take pride in their behind-the-scenes work and are dedicated to the craft of filmmaking.


A film is not just about its stars; it's the culmination of the efforts of hundreds of staff members. Just as numerous gears mesh precisely within a watch to keep it running, each component must function accurately for success. The awards honoring these contributors possess a special brilliance in Hollywood.


So, why does the watch brand Hamilton host the BTC? It stems from Hamilton's deep-rooted connection with cinema.

Next page: Discover Hamilton's profound relationship with the film industry →

Hamilton's Deep Connection with Hollywood: Featured in Over 400 Films for 60 Years

Hamilton, celebrating its 120th anniversary, was founded in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, in 1892. Interestingly, the following year saw Edison unveil the Kinetoscope, and in France, the Lumière brothers developed the first Cinématographe. This means the brand was born in an era that gave rise to cultures and technologies that would profoundly influence modern times, such as cinema, railways, and aviation.

Hamilton's deep relationship with Hollywood dates back 60 years.

The Khaki Officer Auto appeared in the film "[Limit]," while the Khaki Belowzero 1000 was featured in the hit sci-fi action films "Green Lantern" and "Predators."

The film "[Limit]" and the Khaki Officer Auto featured within it. ©2009 Versus Entertainment S.L. All Rights Reserved. Blu-ray & DVD now available. GAGA/HAPPINET

The Khaki series has also been used in socially conscious action films like "Blood Diamond" and the suspense thriller "U.S. Marshals" starring Tommy Lee Jones, where its durability and toughness effectively portrayed rugged characters.
Furthermore, the Khaki Field was featured in "The Italian Job" starring Mark Wahlberg, solidifying the Khaki series as a representative face of Hamilton in film.
Hamilton's distinctive designs have been utilized as props to clearly define character traits, notably when Bruce Willis's character, John McClane, wore one in "Live Free or Die Hard."
Conversely, Hamilton has also created iconic timepieces that have left their mark on film history.


The Ventura, worn by Elvis Presley in the 1961 film "Blue Hawaii," became a sensation.
Its unique triangular form, which Elvis continued to favor and wear even after filming, made it a coveted item for fans worldwide. Its distinctive charm remains undiminished by time, appearing as the MIB agent's watch in the "Men in Black" trilogy, worn by Will Smith.

Few timepieces could be a better fit for the outlandish premise of alien-fighting agents and the cool aesthetic of their black suits than the Ventura.

And then there's its unforgettable appearance in the landmark sci-fi film "2001: A Space Odyssey." At the request of director Stanley Kubrick himself to "create a watch befitting the future," Hamilton's team developed a novel, futuristic timepiece. It's evident how each prop was designed to visualize the future.

Beyond sci-fi, Hamilton has also featured in numerous romantic films.

For instance, the Ardmore appeared in "Sweet November," a romantic drama starring Charlize Theron and Keanu Reeves. Hamilton watches were also seen in glamorous hits featuring female ensembles, such as "Charlie's Angels" and "Chicago."

On television, the most memorable appearance is undoubtedly in the popular 1960s drama "Mad Men," set in an advertising agency. It's only natural that Hamilton watches, popular in America during the 60s, would feature in the show. Additionally, the Lady Hamilton Vintage appeared in "Gossip Girl," a popular drama depicting the lives of wealthy, fashionable high school students in New York.



It's astonishing that Hamilton watches have been used in over 400 films in just 60 years. In recent years, Hamilton timepieces are increasingly appearing in European, Chinese, and Japanese films. Watches are an indispensable element of cinematic direction, and Hamilton has become an icon representing American culture and history.

Next page: An interview with Sylvain Dolla, CEO of Hamilton International →

Filmmaking Inspires New Innovations──Hamilton's Challenge: Continuous Innovation

Hamilton's relationship with film goes beyond simply having its watches appear in movies. We had the exclusive opportunity to interview Sylvain Dolla, CEO of Hamilton, about this deep connection.

──What is the significance of Hamilton hosting the BTC and actively supporting the film industry?

Sylvain Dolla (hereinafter, Dolla)Watches and films both create products that appeal to people's passions. Film creates entertainment that moves human emotions, while watchmaking caters to people's affection and dedication. In essence, they share a very similar spirit.

──Hamilton watches have appeared in numerous films. Which film do you think features Hamilton in a way that truly captures its essence?

──With watches appearing in over 400 films, why is Hamilton so popular in Hollywood?

DollaI believe it's due to the trust we've built with the film industry over the years. Our 120-year history also serves as a significant asset.

Our track record of collaborating with Hollywood creators from the production stage and developing special watches also contributes to this trust.

──Do you have any plans for how Hamilton will continue to engage with the film industry in the future?

DollaWe are currently working with costume and prop departments on new designs for a film scheduled for release in 2014. These projects typically begin one to two years in advance. While I can't reveal the title yet, I believe it will be very exciting.

──What kind of watches do you aim to release in the future?

DollaWe aim to launch unique watches with a strong identity, much like the Ventura. We intend to create designs that will captivate those who appreciate them, eliciting a passionate response.

We look forward to new Hamilton creations inspired by cinema. While honoring its 120-year legacy, Hamilton's continuous evolution and provision of original ideas demonstrate an unending pursuit of innovation.

Next page: See street style snapshots of those who wear Hamilton with flair →

Showcasing Stylish Hamilton Enthusiasts and Their Unique Ways of Wearing Watches

Let's take a look at the stylish Hamilton wearers among the attendees of the BTC and their personal styles.


Hamilton's legacy in aviation began in 1919 when its watches were chosen as the official timepieces for the first U.S. scheduled airmail service. In the 1930s, it became the preferred choice for many airlines, including United Airlines. Furthermore, Hamilton supplied aviation clocks to the Air Force during World War II, carrying this heritage into the present day.

Nicolas is known not only as a stylish pilot, often selected as best-dressed at any airfield, but also for his strong commitment to design.

"Hamilton watches simply have great designs. I like to change my watch depending on my mood each day, so I don't stick to just one; I choose based on my outfit."

The Hamilton watch chosen by a top pilot embodies the romance of a man soaring through the vast skies.


It can be used as a desk clock, either vertically or horizontally, by placing it in the wooden box equipped with a gimbal that keeps the watch level.

This watch, embodying the legend of Hamilton, which received the "E Award" from the U.S. Navy for its meritorious service in World War II in 1943, is a fitting tribute.

"The Khaki is versatile and pairs well with any outfit. I love the military details, which is why I wear it so often." For working women, it's functional, and deliberately choosing a men's watch is considered cool. The appeal of Hamilton watches lies in their perfect balance of functionality and creative design, all at an accessible price point for younger generations.

A watch is truly an item that speaks about its owner. For those who appreciate authenticity, Hamilton serves as a tool to express individuality and aesthetic sensibility.

Hamilton CEO Sylvain Dolla states, "Watches are emotional items."

"A watch is not merely a daily necessity. People don't form attachments to daily necessities, do they? However, watches carry memories, personal preferences, affections, and stories."

Hamilton's American spirit, Swiss technology, and its legendary status, having graced countless film characters, will continue to captivate those who recognize true value.

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