

FROM A JAPANESE COLLECTOR
945
Universal
Ref. 885.103/02
Universal Compax, "Nina Rindt"
A rare and highly attractive stainless steel chronograph wristwatch with tropical Panda dial and Gay Frères bracelet
- Estimate
- HK$160,000 - 240,000€17,600 - 26,400$20,500 - 30,800
HK$225,000
Lot Details
- Manufacturer
- Universal
- Year
- Circa 1967
- Reference No
- 885.103/02
- Case No
- 2’569’571
- Model Name
- Universal Compax, "Nina Rindt"
- Material
- Stainless steel
- Calibre
- Manual Cal. Valjoux 72 / Universal Genève 85, 17 jewels
- Clasp/Buckle
- Universal/Gay Frères stainless steel folding clasp
- Dimensions
- 36mm. Diameter
- Signed
- Case, dial, movement and clasp signed
Specialist
Full-Cataloguing
Catalogue Essay
The model nickname “Nina Rindt” came from the wife of famed Formula One driver, Jochen Rindt, who was seen wearing the model, and collectors chose that name because of her cool sexy demeanor. The “Panda” dial is reminiscent of the famed “Paul Newman Panda” with white dial and black subsidiary dials, resembling the face of the bear.
One of the finest Universal Compax chronograph to be offered in recent years, this example is highlighted by its original factory condition, sublime “tropical” subsidiary dials, Panda dial configuration, Gay Frères bracelet, and even the original crystal with the inlaid “U” at the center. The scroll lugs retain their facets, and the undersides of the lugs have sharp facets at the tips. While the watch shows signs of wear, the case remains unpolished and is a delight to see and wear. This is a rare opportunity to buy a stunning and very rare vintage chronograph watch.
One of the finest Universal Compax chronograph to be offered in recent years, this example is highlighted by its original factory condition, sublime “tropical” subsidiary dials, Panda dial configuration, Gay Frères bracelet, and even the original crystal with the inlaid “U” at the center. The scroll lugs retain their facets, and the undersides of the lugs have sharp facets at the tips. While the watch shows signs of wear, the case remains unpolished and is a delight to see and wear. This is a rare opportunity to buy a stunning and very rare vintage chronograph watch.
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.
Browse MakerToday, 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.