206
Universal
Compur
A fine stainless steel multi-scale chronograph wristwatch
Estimate
CHF4,000 - 6,000
€5,100 - 7,700
$6,400 - 9,500
Sold For
CHF7,500
Lot Details
Manufacturer
Universal
Year
1937
Case No
628'923
Model Name
Compur
Material
Stainless steel
Calibre
Manual, cal. UG 285, 17 jewels
Bracelet/Strap
Leather
Clasp/Buckle
Stainless steel pin buckle
Dimensions
34mm Diameter
Signed
Case, dial and movement signed
Accessories
Accompanied by Universal Genève Extract from the Archives confirming production of the present watch in 1937.
Specialist
Full-Cataloguing
Catalogue Essay
The present stainless steel chronograph is a wonderful example of watchmaking from the late 1930s. The design is already abandoning the "carefree" canons of the 1920s and early 1930s; it rather features a more austere style, typical of the following decade and influenced by the turmoil of the time. The technical multi-scale dial further accentuates this militaristic vibe. The only concession to the Belle Epoque style is the Dauphine numerals which, beyond being a very rare feature, add flair to the final looks of the piece.
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.