Universal - The New York Watch Auction: NINE New York Saturday, December 9, 2023 | Phillips
  • Manufacturer: Universal
    Year: 1968
    Reference No: 890101/01
    Movement No: Stamped HON
    Case No: 2’583’554
    Model Name: Aero-Compax
    Material: Stainless steel
    Calibre: Manual, cal. 178, 17 jewels
    Bracelet/Strap: Leather
    Clasp/Buckle: Metal
    Dimensions: 41mm Diameter
    Signed: Case, dial, movement signed

  • Catalogue Essay

    Universal’s “Compax” was introduced in 1935 as the world’s first chronograph wristwatch with hour and minute registers. Members of armed forces around the world appreciated this new style for its functionality. Models were available in different case materials and forms, as well as a variety of dial layouts using the names ‘Tri-Compax,’ ‘Uni-Compax,’ and Aero-Compax.’ Released in 1941, the “Aero-Compax” was a professional tool watch made for pilots. With different dial configurations, the present example belongs to a rare breed of the model, featuring a bi-colored 24-hour rotational bezel and 24-hour dial. The bezel is used to determine a second time-zone based on distance travelled, while the hands sweep once around the dial every 24 hours. Another unusual feature is the 15-minute register, which moves twice per minute capturing 30 second intervals. Universal Genève used a modified Venus 178 base caliber to accommodate these two unusual complications.

    The present example is in outstanding overall condition, most likely never polished, with a well preserved dial. The Aero-Compax is regarded as one of the most important milestone timepieces for Universal Genève, and this is a wonderful example of the rare model.

  • 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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17

Lot offered with No Reserve

Ref. 890101/01
A rare and well-preserved stainless steel chronograph wristwatch with 24-hour indication

1968
41mm Diameter
Case, dial, movement signed

Estimate
$6,000 - 12,000 
CHF5,400-10,800
€5,600-11,200
HK$46,800-93,700
S$8,100-16,300

Sold for $9,525

Contact Specialist

Paul Boutros
Deputy Chairman and Head of Watches, Americas
+1 (212) 940-1293
WatchesNY@Phillips.com
 
Isabella Proia
Head of Sale, New York
+1 (212) 940 1285
iproia@phillips.com

The New York Watch Auction: NINE

New York Auction 9 - 10 December 2023