Universal - The Geneva Watch Auction: FIVE Geneva Friday, May 12, 2017 | Phillips

Create your first list.

Select an existing list or create a new list to share and manage lots you follow.

  • Manufacturer: Universal
    Year: Circa 1963
    Reference No: 222100/1
    Case No: 2'322'458
    Model Name: Tri-Compax
    Material: Stainless steel
    Calibre: Manual, cal. UG 281, 17 jewels
    Bracelet/Strap: Leather
    Dimensions: 35.5mm. Diameter
    Signed: Case, dial and movement signed
    Accessories: Accompanied by Universal Geneve Extract from the Archives confirming production of the present watch in 1963.

  • Catalogue Essay

    Having made its original debut in the 1940s to commemorate the manufacture's 50th anniversary, the Universal Tri-Compax is characterized by its three complications: the full calendar, chronograph and moon phases function. Universal wristwatches have become increasingly popular today, their robust proportions and reliable workhorse movements being appreciated by both collectors and scholars. The Tri-Compax's beauty resides in its dial design, which is complex yet balanced at the same time.

    Powered by the caliber 281, the present Tri-Compax is instantly distinguishable by its sculpted lugs, which carry very strong definition and give incredible presence on the wrist. Given its original function as a sports watch, many surviving examples today are heavily polished. Yet, this example is preserved in excellent condition, and the case number and reference numbers are very legible on the case back. Even the plexi retains its original Universal logo, as does the original crown.

  • 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.

    View More Works

222

Ref. 222100/1
A rare and attractive stainless steel triple calendar chronograph wristwatch with moonphases and sculpted lugs

Circa 1963
35.5mm. Diameter
Case, dial and movement signed

Estimate
CHF8,000 - 10,000 
€7,400-9,300
$7,900-9,900

Sold for CHF9,375

Contact Specialist
Alexandre Ghotbi
+41 22 317 81 89

The Geneva Watch Auction: FIVE

Geneva Auctions 13 – 14 May 2017