Universal - Geneva Watch Auction: TWO Geneva Saturday, November 7, 2015 | Phillips

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  • Manufacturer: Universal
    Year: 1937
    Reference No: 5922
    Case No: 630'122/3
    Material: 18k yellow gold
    Calibre: Manual, cal. 285, 17 jewels
    Bracelet/Strap: Leather
    Clasp/Buckle: Gold plated buckle
    Dimensions: 35mm. Diameter
    Signed: Case, dial and movement signed

  • Catalogue Essay

    Scholarship tells us that from the late 1930s to the early 1950s, Hermès represented Universal Genève in Paris resulting in gorgeous watches manufactured by Universal and retailed by Hermès.

    Manufactured between 1936 and 1938, this large chronograph with three oversized registers was encased in yellow gold, further adding to its rarity. It features a stunning, glossy black dial with gold italicized Arabic numerals, a tachometer scale along the outer chapter ring, and beautiful, gold feuille hands. The dial is stamped Universal Genève at 12 o’clock, and signed Hermès at 6 o’clock, above the 12-hour register.

    Preserved in overall excellent condition, this watch still retains the hallmarks on the side of the case and strong definition to its the lugs. For all vintage watch collectors, this piece is sure to impress.

  • 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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Ref. 5922
An extremely rare and elegant yellow gold chronograph wristwatch with black dial, retailed by Hermès

1937
35mm. Diameter
Case, dial and movement signed

Estimate
CHF10,000 - 15,000 

Sold for CHF38,750

Contact Specialist
Nathalie Monbaron
+41 22 317 81 83

Geneva Watch Auction: TWO

Geneva Auction 7 & 8 November 2015 6:30pm