Universal - The Geneva Watch Auction: XV Geneva Saturday, May 7, 2022 | Phillips

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  • Manufacturer: Universal
    Year: 1944
    Reference No: 22432
    Movement No: 222'127
    Case No: 1'046'123
    Model Name: Aero-Compax
    Material: Stainless steel
    Calibre: Manual, cal. UG 285
    Bracelet/Strap: Leather
    Clasp/Buckle: Stainless steel buckle
    Dimensions: 38mm Diameter
    Signed: Case, dial and movement signed
    Accessories: Accompanied by Universal Geneve Extract from the Archives confirming production of the present watch in 1944.

  • Catalogue Essay

    The history of Universal Genève mirrors that of the history of the chronograph wristwatch. Founded in 1894 in Le Locle as Universal Watch, the brand initially began as a workshop assembling watch parts. However, by the early 20th-century the founders patented their first 24-hour timepiece. During World War I, they manufactured pocket watches and wristwatches for both sides of the war effort. In 1936, Universal Genève released their first Aero Compax model and it is from this beginning that collectors today appreciate their timepieces, with names such as Uni-Compax, Tri-Compax, and the famed Polerouter designed by Gerald Genta. Today, Universal’s chronograph wristwatches are highly sought after both for their modern mid-20th century aesthetic, fascinating dial variations, and superb quality.

    Distinguished by its faceted case, the present watch stands out due to its excellent state of conservation. The numbers are crisp and visible, and the dial is free of tarnishing. Furthermore, the luminous material has aged with warm patina.

  • Artist Biography

    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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155

Ref. 22432
A highly rare and attractive stainless steel chronograph wristwatch with faceted lugs

1944
38mm Diameter
Case, dial and movement signed

Estimate
CHF12,000 - 18,000 
€11,800-17,700
$12,700-19,100

Sold for CHF25,200

Contact Specialist

Alexandre Ghotbi
Head of Watches, Continental Europe and the Middle East

+41 22 317 81 81
AGhotbi@phillips.com

Tiffany To
Head of Sale, Geneva

+41 22 317 96 63
TiffanyTo@phillips.com

The Geneva Watch Auction: XV

Geneva Auction 7 - 8 May 2022