93
Universal
Ref. 224'114
Aero-Compax
A fine, large and attractive stainless steel chronograph wristwatch with luminous dial and additional time display
Estimate
CHF10,000 - 15,000
€8,900 - 13,400
$10,100 - 15,100
Sold For
CHF12,500
Lot Details
Manufacturer
Universal
Year
1945
Reference No
224'114
Movement No
279'680
Case No
1'245'374
Model Name
Aero-Compax
Material
Stainless steel
Calibre
Manual, cal. 285, 17 jewels
Bracelet/Strap
Leather
Clasp/Buckle
Stainless steel pin buckle
Dimensions
38mm Diameter
Signed
Case, dial and movement signed
Accessories
Accompanied by Universal Genève Extract from the Archives confirming production of the present watch in 1945.
Specialist
Full-Cataloguing
Catalogue Essay
The generous 38mm diameter of this timepiece fully classifies it as one part of that rarefied category of vintage timepieces which stylistically resonates with contemporary taste. That is even more true when one considers the stainless steel case, luminous dial and exceptionally balanced dial layout.
The present watch is an example of tool watches from the mid 20th century, a categorization which explains its large-for-the-time dimensions and the presence of the luminous dial, and is as aesthetically appealing as it is collectible. The additional dial at 12 0’ clock can be operated via the crown at 9 and displays a fixed time, intended to serve as a reminder to the wearer of the time of important occurrences (such as a take-off time).
The present watch is an example of tool watches from the mid 20th century, a categorization which explains its large-for-the-time dimensions and the presence of the luminous dial, and is as aesthetically appealing as it is collectible. The additional dial at 12 0’ clock can be operated via the crown at 9 and displays a fixed time, intended to serve as a reminder to the wearer of the time of important occurrences (such as a take-off time).
Universal
Swiss | 1894Universal 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.