Universal - START-STOP-RESET: 88 Epic Stainless Steel Chronographs Geneva Friday, May 13, 2016 | Phillips

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  • Manufacturer: Universal
    Year: 1966
    Reference No: 885104/02
    Case No: 2’510’232
    Model Name: Space-Compax
    Material: Stainless steel
    Calibre: Manual, cal. UG 85, 17 jewels
    Bracelet/Strap: Stainless steel, end links stamped 55, max length 210mm
    Clasp/Buckle: Stainless steel folding deployant clasp
    Dimensions: 37.5mm diameter
    Signed: Case, dial, movement and bracelet signed
    Accessories: Accompanied by an Extract from the Archives confirming the present watch was manufactured in 1966.

  • Catalogue Essay

    In 1917, Universal Genève created its first ever chronograph wristwatch. Some 18 years later, they launched their first “Compax” model, with many variations to follow. Today, vintage Universal Genève’s sports watches are especially sought after thanks to their extraordinary diversity, appealing designs, and large, well-proportioned cases.

    One of Universal’s most unusual yet attractive chronograph designs was the Space-Compax. Produced in two generations, the present lot belongs to the first generation, made in limited numbers with a patented case design with number 238’872.

    The present example is fitted with an attractive, all black dial consistent with the first generation of the model, while the second-generation dial configuration features white contrasting subsidiary dials and a large 12 o’clock hour marker. The Space-Compax was designed for underwater use, and is fitted with a black rotating bezel and rubber-capped chronograph pushers. Bold hands, luminous hour markers, and red accents complement the masculine, oversized case giving it an absolutely modern appearance despite being nearly half a century old.

    The crisp case houses the well-known caliber UG 85 three-register chronograph. Reference 885104-02 is extremely difficult to come by,
    and this example presented in exceptional, original condition, is certainly
    a worthy addition to a world class collection of sports watches.

  • 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. 885104/02
A very rare and attractive stainless steel chronograph with black dial, rotating bezel, rubber chronograph pushers, red chronograph hand and bracelet.

1966
37.5mm diameter
Case, dial, movement and bracelet signed

Estimate
CHF6,000 - 12,000 

Sold for CHF16,250

Contact Specialist
Livia Russo
+41 22 317 81 86

START-STOP-RESET: 88 Epic Stainless Steel Chronographs

Geneva Auction 14 May 2016