In the wake of Rolex waterproof Oyster case developed in the first half of the 20th century, and spurred by a newfound interest of the public toward water sports and a more widespread diffusion of outdoor sports in general, many companies developed timepieces with some degree of resistance to either water or atmospheric agents.

The present watch exemplifies Universal determination to work on the subject. As the dial boldly states, this is a Climate-Proof model, that is: the movement is protected by an additional case back which grants improved protection from external elements such a dust and moisture, and the pushers as well have a waterproof construction. As highlighted by the Universal Extract from the Archives itself, Climate-proof Compax timepieces are very rare. Furthermore, finding one still bearing the inner case back is even more difficult, as this detail is often lost to the ages.

Featuring a quite large for the time 37mm case diameter and a highly attractive and honest multiscale dial with red telemeter and blue tachymeter scales, this watch is a highly charming examples of the early days of sport’s watches: while the general idea of a resistant timepiece has obviously been deemed by Universal to be commercially viable, the case and dial design have yet to evolve to the more sporty looks normally associated with this category of watches. An extremely interesting and insightful “chimera”, furthermore offered in very attractive condition.