The HMT Chirag is one of the more visually distinctive late-era mechanical dress watches produced by HMT, recognized for its bold oval-tonneau case architecture and vibrant fumé-style dial execution. Unlike conventional minimalist HMT references, the Chirag embraced a more contemporary retro aesthetic with its gradient olive-gold dial, dual-tone applied indices, and striking orange-arrow seconds hand.
This New Old Stock example stands out with exceptionally preserved factory finishing, retaining its sharp brushed case lines, flawless dial surface, untouched handset, and original signed HMT bracelet. Finding a Chirag in true NOS condition with original packaging has become increasingly uncommon, making this piece especially appealing to collectors focused on preserved vintage Indian mechanical watches.
Details
Brand: HMT
Model: Chirag
Country of Origin: India
Movement: HMT Caliber 0231
Movement Type: Mechanical Hand-Winding
Jewels: 17 Jewels
Shock Protection: Para Shock
Case Material: Stainless Steel
Case Shape: Oval / Tonneau-style
Case Finish: Brushed Stainless Steel
Caseback: Stainless Steel Screw-Down Back
Water Resistance: Marked Water Resistant
Dial & Hands
Original olive green to sunburst gold gradient dial
Dark vignette outer dial border
Applied dual-tone block hour markers
White printed outer minute track
Golden baton-style hour and minute hands
Orange/red arrow-tipped central seconds hand
Dial signed:
“hmt Chirag”
“PARA SHOCK”
“17 JEWELS”
“MADE IN INDIA 0231”
Bracelet
Original period-correct stainless steel bracelet
Multi-link brushed finish design
Original signed HMT fold-over clasp
Condition
True New Old Stock (NOS) condition
Sharp unpolished case edges and finishing
Pristine dial with no visible aging or discoloration
Clean indices and untouched handset
Original bracelet preserved excellently
Includes period-correct original packaging
Important Note
This is a vintage mechanical hand-winding watch. Minor time variation is normal due to the age and mechanical nature of the movement. While this example is preserved in NOS condition, vintage watches are best handled with reasonable care and are not recommended for modern water exposure despite original water resistance markings.
