Universal - The Geneva Watch Auction: SEVEN Geneva Saturday, May 12, 2018 | Phillips

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  • Manufacturer: Universal
    Year: 1968
    Reference No: 881101/04
    Case No: 2'685'022
    Model Name: Tri-Compax
    Material: Stainless steel
    Calibre: Manual, cal. 281, 17 jewels
    Bracelet/Strap: Leather
    Clasp/Buckle: Stainless steel Universal Genève pin buckle
    Dimensions: 36mm Diameter
    Signed: Case, dial, movement and buckle signed
    Accessories: Accompanied by Universal Genève Extract from the Archives confirming production of the present watch in 1968.

  • Catalogue Essay

    Eric Clapton is not only known for his superb music but also for his exquisite taste in watches and many photos show him wearing a Universal Geneve Tri-Compax with a panda dial.

    The present Tri-Compax is similar to that of the legendary guitar player’s to the exception that it features the ultra-rare “acqua” blue dial.

    The Tri-Compax gets its name from the three complications indicated on its dial: a complete calendar, moonphase indication and chronograph. The true feat here is how Universal Genève has managed to still retain a clean legible dial whilst offering a large number of indications.

    The case of this lovely chronograph, some could argue, resembles the Rolex Daytona reference 6241, as the acrylic bezel with printed tachymeter in addition to the pump pushers are similar in appearance.

    Collectors will notice the/04 terminating the reference number of the present Tri-Compax which refers to the incredible turquoise blue color of the dial, an ethereal water blue perfectly balanced with the beautiful patina of the luminous markers.

    The present watch is certainly one of the rarest Universal Genève chronographs and a unique opportunity to obtain a timepiece that shows up on the international markets ever so rarely.

  • 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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163

Ref. 881101/04
A very attractive and rare stainless steel triple calendar wristwatch with "acqua" blue colored dial, moonphases and tachymeter scale

1968
36mm Diameter
Case, dial, movement and buckle signed

Estimate
CHF10,000 - 15,000 
€8,600-12,900
$10,600-15,900

Sold for CHF43,750

Contact Specialist
Alexandre Ghotbi
Head of Sale
+41 22 317 81 81
aghotbi@phillips.com

The Geneva Watch Auction: SEVEN

Geneva Auction 12-13 May 2018