222
Universal
Ref. 222100/1
Tri-Compax
A rare and attractive stainless steel triple calendar chronograph wristwatch with moonphases and sculpted lugs
- Estimate
- CHF8,000 - 10,000€7,400 - 9,300$7,900 - 9,900
CHF9,375
Lot Details
- Manufacturer
- Universal
- Year
- Circa 1963
- Reference No
- 222100/1
- Case No
- 2'322'458
- Model Name
- Tri-Compax
- Material
- Stainless steel
- Calibre
- Manual, cal. UG 281, 17 jewels
- Bracelet/Strap
- Leather
- Dimensions
- 35.5mm. Diameter
- Signed
- Case, dial and movement signed
- Accessories
- Accompanied by Universal Geneve Extract from the Archives confirming production of the present watch in 1963.
Specialist
Full-Cataloguing
Catalogue Essay
Having made its original debut in the 1940s to commemorate the manufacture's 50th anniversary, the Universal Tri-Compax is characterized by its three complications: the full calendar, chronograph and moon phases function. Universal wristwatches have become increasingly popular today, their robust proportions and reliable workhorse movements being appreciated by both collectors and scholars. The Tri-Compax's beauty resides in its dial design, which is complex yet balanced at the same time.
Powered by the caliber 281, the present Tri-Compax is instantly distinguishable by its sculpted lugs, which carry very strong definition and give incredible presence on the wrist. Given its original function as a sports watch, many surviving examples today are heavily polished. Yet, this example is preserved in excellent condition, and the case number and reference numbers are very legible on the case back. Even the plexi retains its original Universal logo, as does the original crown.
Powered by the caliber 281, the present Tri-Compax is instantly distinguishable by its sculpted lugs, which carry very strong definition and give incredible presence on the wrist. Given its original function as a sports watch, many surviving examples today are heavily polished. Yet, this example is preserved in excellent condition, and the case number and reference numbers are very legible on the case back. Even the plexi retains its original Universal logo, as does the original crown.
Universal
Swiss | 1894 Universal Genève was founded in Le Locle, Switzerland in 1894 and was originally known as "Universal Watch." Since its inception, Universal Genève has produced watches with unusually high quality for their price point. Universal was among the first brands to introduce a chronograph wristwatch.
Today, the firm's vintage models are highly sought-after and desired for their oversized cases and interesting dial designs. Key models include a variety of "Compax" models such as the "Nina Rindt" or "Evil Nina," the Uni-Compax, the Space-Compax, the Aero-Compax and the Film-Compax.
Browse MakerToday, the firm's vintage models are highly sought-after and desired for their oversized cases and interesting dial designs. Key models include a variety of "Compax" models such as the "Nina Rindt" or "Evil Nina," the Uni-Compax, the Space-Compax, the Aero-Compax and the Film-Compax.