Universal - The Hong Kong Watch Auction: SIX Hong Kong Monday, May 28, 2018 | Phillips
  • Manufacturer: Universal
    Year: 1952
    Case No: 124'113
    Model Name: Compax Climate Proof
    Material: 18K pink gold
    Calibre: Manual, cal. 285, 17 jewels
    Bracelet/Strap: Leather
    Clasp/Buckle: Gilt Universal pin buckle
    Dimensions: 37.5mm Diameter
    Signed: Case, dial, movement and buckle signed
    Accessories: Accompanied by Universal presentation box and an Extract from the Archives confirming the production of the present watch in 1952.

  • Catalogue Essay

    In the wake of Rolex waterproof Oyster case developed in the first half of the 20th century, and spurred by a newfound interest of the public toward water sports and a more widespread diffusion of outdoor sports in general, many companies developed timepieces with some degree of resistance to either water or atmospheric agents.

    The present watch exemplifies Universal determination to work on the subject. As the dial boldly states, this is a Climate-Proof model, that is: the movement is protected by an additional case back which grants improved protection from external elements such a dust and moisture, and the pushers as well have a waterproof construction. As highlighted by the Universal Extract from the Archives itself, Climate-proof Compax timepieces are very rare. Furthermore, finding one still bearing the inner case back is even more difficult, as this detail is often lost to the ages.

    Featuring a quite large for the time 37mm case diameter and a highly attractive and honest multiscale dial with red telemeter and blue tachymeter scales, this watch is a highly charming examples of the early days of sport’s watches: while the general idea of a resistant timepiece has obviously been deemed by Universal to be commercially viable, the case and dial design have yet to evolve to the more sporty looks normally associated with this category of watches. An extremely interesting and insightful “chimera”, furthermore offered in very attractive condition.

  • 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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1004

A fine and very rare pink gold chronograph wristwatch with multi-scale dial

1952
37.5mm Diameter
Case, dial, movement and buckle signed

Estimate
HK$80,000 - 120,000 
€8,800-13,200
$10,300-15,400

Sold for HK$81,250

Contact Specialist

Thomas Perazzi
Head of Watches, Asia
+852 2318 2001
thomasperazzi@phillips.com

Ziyong Ho
Specialist
+852 9386 2032
ziyongho@phillips.com

Jill Chen
Specialist
+852 2318 2033
jillchen@phillips.com

The Hong Kong Watch Auction: SIX

Hong Kong Auction 29 May 2018