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

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  • Manufacturer: Universal
    Year: 1965
    Reference No: 884100/01
    Case No: 2’380’011
    Model Name: Uni-Compax ‘Big Eye’
    Material: Stainless steel
    Calibre: Manual, cal. Universal 125, 17 jewels
    Bracelet/Strap: Leather
    Clasp/Buckle: Stainless steel buckle, signed Universal
    Dimensions: 36mm diameter
    Signed: Case, dial, movement and buckle signed
    Accessories: Accompanied by an Extract from the Archives confirming the present watch was manufactured in 1965.

  • Catalogue Essay

    In 1917, Universal Genève created its first ever chronograph wristwatch. About eighteen years later, they launched their first “Compax” model, with many variations to follow: the Dato-Compax, Aero-Compax, and the revered Tri-Compax that featured a complete calendar with moon phases.

    The present Uni-Compax is also referred to as “Big Eye” due to its oversized minute register at 3 o’clock. The matte black dial has so many features that delight the senses – cross hairs alluding to precision, a silver ring along the outer edge for the tachometer scale, and a bold, red chronograph hand giving the wristwatch its signature, sporty aesthetic.The stainless steel case houses the manually wound Universal caliber 125, featuring two registers at 3 o’clock and 9 o’clock indicating timekeeping seconds and a 45-minute counter, respectively.

    Still retaining crisp definition to the lugs and bezel, it is hard to believe a watch intended for everyday use is still in such excellent condition.
    Half a century later, this attractive and unusual wristwatch is sure to excite the discerning collector.

  • 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. 884100/01
A very rare and highly attractive stainless steel chronograph wristwatch with black dial, tachometer scale, and enlarged 45-minute register.

1965
36mm diameter
Case, dial, movement and buckle signed

Estimate
CHF10,000 - 20,000 

Sold for CHF32,500

Contact Specialist
Livia Russo
+41 22 317 81 86

START-STOP-RESET: 88 Epic Stainless Steel Chronographs

Geneva Auction 14 May 2016