Manufacturer: Universal Year: 1944 Reference No: 22’432 Movement No: 219’123 Case No: 1'038'115 Model Name: Aero-Compax Material: Stainless steel Calibre: Manual, cal. UG 285 Dorato, 17 jewels Bracelet/Strap: Leather Clasp/Buckle: Stainless steel buckle Dimensions: 38mm diameter Signed: Case, dial and movement signed Accessories: Accompanied by an Extract from the Archives confirming the present watch was manufactured in 1944.
Catalogue Essay
The “Compax” was introduced in 1935 as the world’s first chronograph wristwatch with hour and minute registers. Members of the armed forces appreciated this new style for its functionality. The models were available in different case materials and forms, as well as a variety of dial layouts using the names ‘Tri-Compax,’ ‘Uni-Compax,’ and Aero-Compax.’
The Aero-Compax was first launched in 1941, and this wonderful example from 1944 demonstrates how a steel Compax case would have looked after leaving Universal’s factory. The watch has this amazing feel of having lived the best possible life, as we hardly see this model in such crisp and hardly worn condition. The dial shows a warm ageing with crisp printing, adding to the desirability of the piece.
The present example displays an interesting “memory” register at the 12 o’clock position of the dial. This feature allows the user to establish a start time by engaging the crown on the left hand side. For pilots and military personnel, this was often used to mark the start time of a mission. Presented in overall excellent condition, it is hard to believe this watch is over 70 years old, making this one of the finest examples of an Aero-Compax one could hope to own.
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.