Universal - The Geneva Watch Auction: XI Geneva Sunday, June 28, 2020 | Phillips

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  • Manufacturer: Universal
    Year: 1942
    Reference No: 22477
    Case No: 876’736
    Model Name: Aero-Compax
    Material: Stainless steel
    Calibre: Manual, cal. 287, 17 jewels
    Bracelet/Strap: Leather
    Clasp/Buckle: Stainless steel pin buckle
    Dimensions: 36.5mm Diameter
    Signed: Case, dial and movement signed
    Accessories: Accompanied by Universal Genève Extract from the Archives confirming production of the present watch in this configuration in 1942

  • Catalogue Essay

    The present watch is an example of tool watches from the mid 20th century, an intended destination which explains its generous dimensions and the presence of the luminous hands. It is as aesthetically appealing as it is collectible. The additional "aide memoire" dial at 12 0’ clock can be operated via the crown at 9 and displays a fixed time, intended to serve as a reminder to the wearer of the time of important occurrences (such as a take-off time): a sort of very early precursor of the current Reminders app found in an Iphone.

    The present example is undoubtedly one of the most charismatic and best preserved examples to appear in an auction room: the case did not suffer invasive polishing and perfectly retains its proportions. The dial as well not only is unrestored, but it furthermore arrives to us in impeccable condition: an unusual occurrence as this kind of dials tend to age with spotting and oxidation marks. The only hint to the passage of time is instead, in this instance, a supremely attractive and even ivory patina.

  • 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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182

Ref. 22477
A fine, unusual and very attractive stainless steel chronograph wristwatch with "aide memoire" subdial and double crown

1942
36.5mm Diameter
Case, dial and movement signed

Estimate
CHF5,000 - 8,000 
€4,600-7,400
$5,500-8,700

Sold for CHF11,875

Contact Specialist

Alexandre Ghotbi
Head of Watches, Continental Europe and the Middle East

41 79 637 1724
aghotbi@phillips.com

The Geneva Watch Auction: XI

Geneva Auction 27 - 28 June 2020