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.
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.