The HP Hercules Hand-Wound Double Barrelled is a Swiss-made, 40 mm hand-wound watch with two barrels and a stated five-day power reserve. Fratello reports that its review example was worn by adventurer Ryan Water while scaling Mount Everest; that is a claim about one watch, not documented provenance for every Hercules. Here’s what the watch offers, what the Everest story establishes, and what to consider before buying.
What is the HP Hercules Hand-Wound Double Barrelled?
HP Hercules is a revived watch brand that, according to Fratello, returned in 2022 under Swiss watchmaker Adriaan Trampe. The current Hercules draws on a 1953 watch associated with mountaineer Hermann Buhl. The manufacturer identifies the modern model as Swiss-made and presents it as a contemporary take on that history. Fratello’s August 2025 review and the brand’s history page describe the background.
The hand-wound version is defined by its twin-barrel movement and 120-hour stated power reserve. It is the manual-winding direction in the Hercules collection; a micro-rotor automatic is another option, but it is a separate movement and should not be confused with this reference.
Was this watch really worn on Everest?
Fratello reviewer Thomas Van Straaten reports that the particular watch he reviewed had been worn by adventurer Ryan Water while scaling Mount Everest. That account concerns the photographed review sample. The sources available here do not include expedition records, a first-person statement from Water, or other independent documentation, so the claim is best treated as attributed reporting rather than independently verified provenance.
#1 Best Overall
- SUPER EASY TO READ: white dial with 12 & 24 hour markers and Luminous Face. Japanese quartz movement with highly visible red second hand. Case diameter:38 mm.
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The Everest account is separate from the model’s historical inspiration. HP Hercules associates the original Hercules with Hermann Buhl’s 1953 ascent of Nanga Parbat, where the brand says he was the first to reach the summit. Nanga Parbat is not Everest; the two mountaineering stories should not be conflated.
HP Hercules hand-wound specifications
The following figures are the manufacturer’s current specifications, not independent test results. Its product page was accessed October 8, 2026. Check the HP Hercules product page for the live specification and availability.
Rank #2
- CLASSIC WHITE DIAL WITH BLUE HANDS – Clean white dial with striking blue hands and bold Arabic numerals for easy reading at a glance. Vintage-inspired design that draws compliments. A timeless aesthetic that works equally well for business or casual wear. 40mm case size offers substantial wrist presence without being overwhelming
- AUTOMATIC SELF-WINDING MOVEMENT – Powered by wrist motion during wear, no battery needed. Manual winding available as backup for occasional use. For optimal performance, wear regularly or hand-wind 15-20 turns daily. Note: Power reserve may not last overnight without regular wear or winding
- SCRATCH-RESISTANT MINERAL GLASS – Reinforced mineral crystal resists scratches and scuffs from daily wear. Clear exhibition case back lets you view the intricate mechanical movement. Durable construction for reliable everyday use
- COMFORTABLE BROWN PU LEATHER STRAP – Soft, flexible PU leather strap designed for all-day comfort. Adjustable buckle closure fits most wrist sizes. 20mm strap width complements the classic dial design. (Note: For extended durability, avoid prolonged exposure to moisture.)
- VERSATILE & EASY-TO-READ DESIGN – Bold numerals and contrasting blue hands ensure quick time reading in various lighting conditions. 13mm slim profile fits comfortably under shirt cuffs. Ideal for work, weekends, travel, or casual outings. 3ATM splash-resistant for hand-washing and light rain
| Specification | HP Hercules listing |
|---|---|
| Movement | Hand-wound, twin-barrel; Manufacture horlogère Vallée de Joux is named as a collaboration partner |
| Power reserve | 120 hours (five days), stated |
| Frequency and jewels | 28,800 vibrations per hour; 26 jewels |
| Stated rate | -4/+6 seconds per day |
| Case material | 316L stainless steel |
| Case dimensions | 40 mm diameter; 46 mm lug-to-lug; 9.4 mm thick including glass |
| Crystal | Sapphire front and back, with internal anti-reflective coating |
| Water resistance | 100 m / 10 ATM, stated |
| Strap | 20 mm spacing with quick-release pins; suede leather and custom leather options listed |
| Dial choices | Ice Blue, Ice Green, Ice Pink and Snow White |
How it wears and what the hands-on review says
Van Straaten describes the 40 mm watch as wearing relatively large for its vintage-inspired form, while praising its thin profile and winding experience. He also questions whether its design distinction and value justify the price. Those are the reviewer’s impressions, not universal fit or performance findings. A 46 mm lug-to-lug measurement can be useful when comparing it with a watch you already wear, but wrist shape and preference still matter.
The maker’s listed 9.4 mm thickness gives the case a slim profile on paper, while the 40 mm diameter and 46 mm lug-to-lug provide the more relevant dimensions for judging footprint. If possible, try the watch on; dimensions alone cannot establish how it will sit on a particular wrist.
Rank #3
- 34mm stainless steel case
- 8 inch black two- piece
- Silver-Tone dial
- Acrylic lens
- Water resistant up to 30 meters
Price, ordering and ownership details
Prices differ by source and date. Fratello listed the watch at €5,995 in its review published August 8, 2025. HP Hercules listed it at $6,670 on its product page accessed October 8, 2026. These are different currencies and snapshots, not a like-for-like price comparison; check the live listing for your market before ordering.
The manufacturer says the watch is made to order, with estimated delivery in four to six weeks, and describes a chronometer test lasting at least 20 days. It lists insured DHL Express shipping worldwide and a two-year worldwide warranty. The brand also warns that import duties and VAT may apply outside the EU and Switzerland. Confirm applicable charges, delivery timing and warranty terms with the seller for your destination.
Rank #4
- MANUAL WINDING: Designed for precision, this hand-wound watch is powered by the exclusive H-50 movement, offering an extended 80-hour power reserve for reliable performance.
- WATER RESISTANT TO 50M: Withstands 5 bar (50 meters), ideal for swimming and outdoor pursuits. Perfect for those who demand resilient accessories that accompany them confidently on their explorative journeys.
- BUILT FOR ADVENTURE: Featuring a 38mm stainless steel case, a black dial and textile strap, this watch combines durability and functionality. With Super-LumiNova and sapphire crystal, it’s ready to tackle your outdoor challenges.
- PREMIUM MATERIALS: Textile strap with pin buckle offers day-long comfort. The clean lines and sophisticated design make it the perfect accessory for both casual wear and formal attire, merging functionality with fashion.
- RICH HERITAGE: Over a century of Hamilton's legacy in field watches, admired for precision. Originally designed for WWI soldiers, these timepieces combine rugged durability with history, showcasing Hamilton's commitment to quality and innovation.
HP Hercules says a copy of Hermann Buhl’s Nanga Parbat Pilgrimage comes with the watch. The product page lists 20 mm straps with quick-release pins; confirm the specific strap and pin arrangement before choosing a replacement.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Hand-wound or micro-rotor Hercules?
The collection’s two movement directions suit different preferences. The available figures below come from Fratello and the manufacturer’s history page; they are stated specifications, not independent endurance or thickness tests. Confirm current details for the exact reference before comparing or ordering.
Best Value
- 1960's Reissue: A modern-day reissue of our 1976 original blue Snoopy watch, it captures your favorite beagle on the playful blue dial where his arms serve as the hour and minute hands
- Natural Leather Strap: The supple leather strap is sourced from the Leather Working Group, a global, member-led non-profit organization dedicated to minimizing the environmental impact of leather production
- Hand-Wound Mechanical Movement: This timepiece pairs the purity and pleasure of a hand-wound mechanical movement with the timeless sophistication of a sleek design
- Stainless Steel Case: Sleek and scratch-resistant stainless steel
- Special Peanuts Packaging: Packaged in a collectible doghouse box, it's the perfect homage to Snoopy's imaginative world
| Consideration | Hand-wound double-barrel | Micro-rotor automatic |
|---|---|---|
| Winding | Manual winding | Automatic, with micro-rotor |
| Stated power reserve | 120 hours, reported by Fratello and listed by the maker | 70 hours, listed on the maker’s history page |
| Movement thickness | Not stated in the cited sources | 3.7 mm, listed on the maker’s history page |
| Price | €5,995 in Fratello’s August 8, 2025 review; $6,670 on the maker’s page accessed October 8, 2026 | Not stated in the cited sources |
Choose the hand-wound model if winding is part of the appeal and a five-day stated reserve suits your routine. Look at the micro-rotor if you prefer automatic winding and its separately listed movement dimensions are relevant to your choice. Do not assume the hand-wound model’s case dimensions, price or other specifications apply to the automatic.
Quick Recap
What to weigh before buying
- Fit: Compare the 40 mm diameter, 46 mm lug-to-lug and 9.4 mm thickness with a watch that already fits you.
- Movement preference: Decide whether you want to wind the watch manually or prefer an automatic; the two Hercules versions are distinct choices.
- Practical use: The maker states 100 m water resistance, but that rating alone does not establish suitability for every activity or replace appropriate care and maintenance.
- Price and support: Confirm the current price, delivery estimate, duties and warranty conditions for your location before committing.
- Story and provenance: The model’s Buhl association is part of the brand’s historical positioning; the Everest account applies to Fratello’s reported review sample, not necessarily to the watch offered for sale.
- Value: Consider Van Straaten’s critique of design distinction and value as one reviewer’s opinion, then compare the watch with alternatives on finishing, movement, fit, support and the importance you place on its mountaineering story.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
