Meet “Murph”: The Hamilton Watch That Became a Cinematic Legend

For years, we've seen watches appear in movies and become silent stars that capture our imagination. But rarely does a timepiece leap from its role as a mere prop to become a genuine pop-culture icon, beloved by both cinema aficionados and horology enthusiasts. This is precisely the story of the Hamilton Khaki Field Murph Auto, a watch that didn't just appear in a movie; it became a character itself, forever etched in cinematic history. A character that goes by a single name, “Murph”. If you're a seasoned collector, a budding enthusiast, or simply a buyer looking for a timepiece with a unique story, the Murph watch offers a captivating blend of narrative depth and robust functionality.

"Interstellar" and the Murph's Icon Status

The undeniable allure of the Hamilton Khaki Field Murph Auto stems directly from its starring role in Christopher Nolan's 2014 sci-fi blockbuster, Interstellar. The watch is named after the film's main character Murph Cooper (played by Jessica Chastain) and plays a pivotal role in the movie’s narrative. In a desperate attempt to save humanity, Cooper, from within the tesseract of the fifth dimension, transmits crucial quantum data to his daughter Murph via Morse code using the seconds hand of the very watch he gave her. This critical moment culminates in Murph's triumphant shout of "Eureka!" upon deciphering the message, saving mankind. This deep integration into the story transformed the watch into a symbol of hope and connection across dimensions, elevating its status far beyond a simple prop.

Initially, only ten of these custom watches were made for the film, with most returned to Hamilton post-production. However, the design resonated so strongly with watch enthusiasts and moviegoers alike that Hamilton made the decision to release an exact reproduction to the public in 2019. This move solidified the Murph watch's pop-icon status, allowing fans to own a piece of that cinematic magic. A charming, subtle tribute to the film is found on the seconds hand of the production model. The word "Eureka" is printed in Morse code in lacquer on the seconds hand. This is a detail that is unique to the 42mm version of the watch. The later 38mm version of the Murph watch do not feature this iconic Morse code detail on its seconds hand. The original 42mm model also came with special tesseract-inspired packaging designed, for the first 2,555 pieces, adding another layer of collector appeal.

The Design

Beyond its compelling backstory, the Hamilton Khaki Field Murph Auto stands on its own as a well-crafted timepiece. Its aesthetic is undeniably military inspired, exuding rugged durability and classic style. The watch features a 42mm brushed and polished stainless steel case, with a thickness of approximately 11mm. The blend of brushed finishes on the case and lugs with a high-polished bezel adds a touch of elegance that elevates its overall appearance.

The watch is protected by a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal. Offering clear visibility of the satin black dial. The dial itself is a model of legibility and clean design, featuring luminous patina Arabic numerals and a minute track along the outer edge. The luminous cathedral-style hands are a defining feature, beautifully complementing the vintage-inspired aesthetic. An oversized, push-pull crown, signed with the Hamilton logo, ensures easy operation for winding and setting. Flipping the watch over reveals an exhibition case-back, offering a view of the movement within.

The watch comes on a semi-gloss black alligator-grained calf-skin leather strap with white stitching. The strap tapers from 22mm to 20mm and features a Hamilton-signed stainless steel tang buckle.

That's a Wrap on The Murph

The Hamilton Khaki Field Murph Auto is more than just a watch; it's a tangible piece of cinematic history woven into a robust, military-inspired timepiece. Despite its considerable size, which might deter some with smaller wrists, its compelling design, reliable H-10 movement with an impressive 80-hour power reserve, and the subtle yet powerful "Eureka" detail make it an incredibly attractive option. It's a testament to Hamilton's ability to blend storytelling with horological craftsmanship, creating a watch that resonates deeply with collectors and fans of the Interstellar movie alike. If you're seeking a watch with character, quality, and an unforgettable origin story, the Hamilton Khaki Field Murph Auto is undoubtedly worth a closer look at your nearest authorized dealer.

Shop This Article