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Property of a Japanese Collector

81

Universal

Ref. 881101/03

Exotic Tri-Compax

A highly rare and attractive stainless steel triple calendar chronograph wristwatch with moon phases, exotic slate grey dial and Gay Frères bracelet

Estimate
HK$120,000 - 200,000
HK$482,600
Lot Details
Manufacturer
Universal
Year
Circa 1968
Reference No
881101/03
Case No
2’684’564
Model Name
Exotic Tri-Compax
Material
Stainless steel
Calibre
Manual, cal. 281, 17 jewels
Bracelet/Strap
Stainless steel Universal Gay Frères bracelet, endlinks stamped “UW”, max length 200mm
Clasp/Buckle
Stainless steel Universal Gay Frères deployant clasp
Dimensions
36mm diameter
Signed
Case, dial, movement, bracelet and clasp signed
Accessories
Accompanied by 2 additional links.
Catalogue Essay
Amongst their most iconic Tri-compax like the “Eric Clapton” (panda) or the “Evil Clapton” (reverse panda), there comes a rarer series from the lineage that features Exotic dials, the present ref. 881101/03 is one of such. Boasting attractive black acrylic insert like the “Clapton” Tri-compax, this reference on the other hand features a highly scarce reverse panda slate grey dial, contrasting against its red chronograph hand and matching red French date wheel. Its outer minute track is printed in bright blue making it a highly legible chronograph. Furthermore the wide hour and minute hands are painted in white instead of steel to increase its readability against its muted grey dial.

Extremely rare and collectible, according to scholarship, there are approximately less than 26 examples known, with the data indicating a batch ranging from 2’684’5XX – 2’684’8XX were produced. Notably, amongst these examples is a rare trait, a smaller batch within the production does not feature the “Tri-Compax” print at 6 o’clock like the present specimen. Fresh-to-the-market and preserved in stunning condition by a Japanese connoisseur, this Exotic Tri-Compax with a beautiful dial charmed with warm patina on the indexes is a rare bird. With signs of exceptional preservation, its serial and reference number still remains intact on the caseback. Furthermore, it is paired with its original UG Gay Frères bracelet.

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.
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