Universal - The Geneva Watch Auction: EIGHT Geneva Saturday, November 10, 2018 | Phillips

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  • Manufacturer: Universal
    Year: 1967
    Reference No: 890101/01
    Case No: 2'583'914
    Model Name: Aero-Compax
    Material: Stainless steel
    Calibre: Manual, cal. UG90, Venus 178, 17 jewels
    Bracelet/Strap: Leather
    Clasp/Buckle: Stainless steel pin buckle
    Dimensions: 41mm Diameter
    Signed: Case, dial and movement signed
    Accessories: Accompanied by Universal Genève Extract from the Archives confirming production of the present watch in 1967.

  • Catalogue Essay

    The name Aero-Compax first appeared in 1941 to describe a chronograph with an additional dial at 12 o’clock position. Conceived as a memory register, the feature allowed the user to establish a start time by engaging the crown on the left hand side. For pilots and military personnel, this was often used to mark the start time of a mission.
    The present piece is a later generation Aero-Compax, from 1967. The increase in transatlantic flights during the 1950s encouraged the production of watches that could display two different times simultaneously. In terms of design, the most challenging point was to differentiate the day and the night time. Universal Genève’s answer was a 24-hour movement which it coupled with a rotating bezel, also displaying 24 hours.
    This watch, in virtually untouched condition, is a great testimony of how watches were when they left the factory, and would be a great addition to any demanding collection.

  • 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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181

Ref. 890101/01
A very attractive stainless steel chronograph wristwatch with 24-hour dial and revolving bezel

1967
41mm Diameter
Case, dial and movement signed

Estimate
CHF10,000 - 15,000 
€8,800-13,200
$10,200-15,400

Sold for CHF15,000

Contact Specialist
Alexandre Ghotbi
Head of Sale
+41 22 317 81 89
aghotbi@phillips.com

The Geneva Watch Auction: EIGHT

Geneva Auction 10-11 November 2018