Universal - Geneva Watch Auction: FOUR Geneva Friday, November 11, 2016 | Phillips
  • Manufacturer: Universal
    Year: 1943
    Reference No: 22'409
    Movement No: 210'992
    Case No: 1'010'119
    Model Name: Uni-Compax
    Material: Stainless steel
    Calibre: Manual, cal. UG 285, 17 jewels
    Bracelet/Strap: Leather
    Clasp/Buckle: Stainless steel
    Dimensions: 38mm. Diameter
    Signed: Case, dial and movement signed
    Accessories: Accompanied by an Extract from the Archives confirming the production of the watch in 1943

  • Catalogue Essay

    In 1917, Universal Genève created its first ever chronograph wristwatch. Some 18 years later, they launched their first “Compax” model, with many variations to follow, such as the Dato-Compax, Aero-Compax, and the revered Tri- Compax that featured a complete calendar with moon phases.
    The present Uni-Compax is equipped with Universal’s manual caliber 285. It features two registers at 3 and 9 o’clock indicating timekeeping seconds and a 45-minute counter, respectively. Encased in stainless steel, the luminous hands nicely complement the warm black dial that has aged uniformly across the surface. The slightly recessed crown integrates well into the center of the case, compared with other chronograph models where the crown more commonly sits on top of the case center.

    Seventy some years later, this watch remains in excellent condition, sure to impress the avid collector of Universal Genève. Its large case size sits nicely on one’s wrist, offering wonderful aesthetics and wearability, making this vintage chronograph perfect for today’s modern tastes.

  • 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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44

Ref. 22'409
A very fine, large and attractive stainless steel chronograph wristwatch with black dial and outer tachometer scale

1943
38mm. Diameter
Case, dial and movement signed

Estimate
CHF10,000 - 15,000 
€9,200-13,800
$10,300-15,500

Sold for CHF16,250

Contact Specialist
Alexandre Ghotbi
+41 22 317 81 89

Geneva Watch Auction: FOUR

Geneva Auctions 12 – 13 November 2016