Universal - The Hong Kong Watch Auction: SIX Hong Kong Monday, May 28, 2018 | Phillips
  • Manufacturer: Universal
    Year: Circa 1967
    Reference No: 885.103/02
    Case No: 2’569’571
    Model Name: Universal Compax, "Nina Rindt"
    Material: Stainless steel
    Calibre: Manual Cal. Valjoux 72 / Universal Genève 85, 17 jewels
    Clasp/Buckle: Universal/Gay Frères stainless steel folding clasp
    Dimensions: 36mm. Diameter
    Signed: Case, dial, movement and clasp signed

  • Catalogue Essay

    The model nickname “Nina Rindt” came from the wife of famed Formula One driver, Jochen Rindt, who was seen wearing the model, and collectors chose that name because of her cool sexy demeanor. The “Panda” dial is reminiscent of the famed “Paul Newman Panda” with white dial and black subsidiary dials, resembling the face of the bear.

    One of the finest Universal Compax chronograph to be offered in recent years, this example is highlighted by its original factory condition, sublime “tropical” subsidiary dials, Panda dial configuration, Gay Frères bracelet, and even the original crystal with the inlaid “U” at the center. The scroll lugs retain their facets, and the undersides of the lugs have sharp facets at the tips. While the watch shows signs of wear, the case remains unpolished and is a delight to see and wear. This is a rare opportunity to buy a stunning and very rare vintage chronograph watch.

  • 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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FROM A JAPANESE COLLECTOR

945

Ref. 885.103/02
A rare and highly attractive stainless steel chronograph wristwatch with tropical Panda dial and Gay Frères bracelet

Circa 1967
36mm. Diameter
Case, dial, movement and clasp signed

Estimate
HK$160,000 - 240,000 
€17,600-26,400
$20,500-30,800

Sold for HK$225,000

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