1100
Universal
Ref. 881101/01
Tri-Compax
A fine and rare stainless steel triple calendar chronograph wristwatch with moon phases and bracelet
Estimate
HK$130,000 - 200,000
€14,800 - 22,800
$16,700 - 25,600
Sold For
HK$200,000
Lot Details
Manufacturer
Universal
Year
Circa 1968
Reference No
881101/01
Case No
2’684’837
Model Name
Tri-Compax
Material
Stainless steel
Calibre
Manual, cal. 281, 17 jewels
Bracelet/Strap
Stainless steel Universal Genève Gay Freres bracelet, endlinks stamped UW, max length 190mm
Clasp/Buckle
Stainless steel Universal Genève Gay Freres deployant clasp stamped "2,70"
Dimensions
36mm Diameter
Signed
Dial, case, movement, bracelet and clasp signed
Accessories
Further delivered with Universal Genève Extract from the Archives, extra leather strap and Universal Genève stainless steel pin buckle
Specialist
Full-Cataloguing
Catalogue Essay
The Universal Genève Compax models were one of the most successful chronograph wristwatches produced by any manufacturer since its rise in popularity in the 1940’s when it was initially launched. To commemorate the firm’s golden jubilee anniversary, the Tri-Compax was introduced in 1944. With an upgraded cal. 281 featuring a triple calendar chronograph complication, the watch was ground-breaking as it is yet practical, legible and extremely well proportioned. The model name “Tri-Compax” is derived from the triple calendar function with day, date, month and moon phases.
With an attractive dial layout featuring vibrant colored chronographic hand and graphics, the watch holds a unique identity. The present example is referred to by many as the “Clapton” Universal.
With an attractive dial layout featuring vibrant colored chronographic hand and graphics, the watch holds a unique identity. The present example is referred to by many as the “Clapton” Universal.
Universal
Swiss | 1894Universal 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.