Universal - The Geneva Watch Auction: NINE Geneva Saturday, May 11, 2019 | Phillips

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  • Manufacturer: Universal
    Year: 1971
    Reference No: 885'107
    Case No: 2'892'624
    Model Name: Compax "Exotic Nina"
    Material: Stainless steel
    Calibre: Manual, cal. Valjoux 72/Universal Genève 85, 17 jewels
    Bracelet/Strap: Leather
    Clasp/Buckle: Stainless steel pin buckle
    Dimensions: 36mm Diameter
    Signed: Case, dial and movement signed
    Accessories: Accompanied by the original presentation box, an additional dark blue service bezel and Universal Genève Extract from the Archives confirming production of the present watch in 1971.

  • Catalogue Essay

    In the late 1960s, Nina Rindt, the wife of the famous Formula One driver, Jochen Rindt, became a Universal Genève icon after she was photographed on the race track wearing a “Panda” black and white Compax on a Bund style strap. Embodying the elegance and cool cat attitude, her name was consequently used to nickname the white and black reverse example: “Evil Nina” and the more original blue or silver version the “Exotic Nina”.
    In November 2018, we had the privilege to auction a blue “Exotic Nina” and we are equally pleased now to present its silver sibling. A subtle mix of brushed silver and matt grey central portion, blue subdials and outer track, red five minute markers, and chronograph hand give the watch a most surprising and arresting visual appeal. This silver version is completed with an “Air Force blue” color bezel identified as being the color of the sky on a clear day. Thanks to researches with the Universal Genève archives department, we are able to confirm that this specific bezel color was specially made and only fitted on the two “Exotic Nina” references 885.107 and 885.108. The watch is nevertheless accompanied by an additional dark blue service bezel.
    In absolutely superb condition with a strong case, crisp engraved numbers on the caseback and immaculate dial, this watch presents a rare opportunity to purchase a beautiful watch that is fast becoming an iconic vintage chronograph.

  • 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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94

Ref. 885'107
A rare and superbly preserved stainless steel chronograph wristwatch with silver and blue dial, additional service bezel and box

1971
36mm Diameter
Case, dial and movement signed

Estimate
CHF12,000 - 18,000 
€10,700-16,000
$12,100-18,100

Sold for CHF27,500

Contact Specialist
Alexandre Ghotbi
Head of Sale
+ 41 79 637 1724
aghotbi@phillips.com

The Geneva Watch Auction: NINE

Geneva Auction 11-12 May 2019