This particular watch is possibly unique and likely initially made as a pair, with the reference number “224118” corresponding to this stopwatch, while the other chronograph watch “224119” is also offered in the auction. At first glance, it may resemble an ordinary oversized pilot watch, but its true identity is that of a very early and rare stopwatch by Universal. Notably, the seconds hand resets when the crown is pulled, marking it as the first known stopwatch complication integrated into a wristwatch by the brand. Powering this remarkable timepiece is a modified caliber 285 by Universal, an advanced 14 lignes chronograph movement produced by the Pellaton factory in Les Ponts-de-Martel during the 1940s and 1950s.

Featuring fixed bars and a screw down caseback, this watch may have been designed for special expeditions, air force, or military purposes, as it includes an antimagnetic cover to protect the delicate movement. Interestingly, the hash marks are elongated every 6 minutes, which is especially useful for pilots in emergency situations. These 6-minute increments allow for quick calculations of rates such as distance and speed, as they equate to 1/10 of an hour, making them easier to work with than 5-minute or 10-minute increments.

In absolutely beautiful condition, the luminescent Arabic numerals at 3, 6, 9, and 12 o’clock enhance overall legibility, with the radium still reacting nicely to UV light, showing high readings on the Geiger counter. The dial has further aged attractively to a creamy color, with an interesting mark left by the syringe hands at 5:55, indicating they rested in that position for an extended period. This honest feature is also found in the other Universal watch.

For discerning collectors of stopwatches and chronographs, this piece, offered by a Japanese collector, holds significant horological importance, representing a rare opportunity to own a lasting piece of history.