Universal - The Geneva Watch Auction: XIII Geneva Saturday, May 8, 2021 | Phillips

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  • Manufacturer: Universal
    Year: Circa 1950
    Reference No: 22279
    Movement No: 263'922
    Case No: 1156078
    Model Name: Tri-Compax
    Material: Stainless steel
    Calibre: Manual, cal. 287, 17 jewels
    Bracelet/Strap: Leather
    Clasp/Buckle: Stainless steel vintage Universal buckle
    Dimensions: 35mm Diameter
    Signed: Case, dial, movement and buckle signed

  • Catalogue Essay

    The history of Universal Genève mirrors that of the history of the chronograph wristwatch. Founded in 1894 in Le Locle as Universal Watch, the brand initially began as a workshop assembling watch parts. However, by the early 20th-century the founders patented their first 24-hour timepiece. During World War I, they manufactured pocket watches and wristwatches for both sides of the war effort. In 1936, Universal Genève released their first Aero Compax model and it is from this beginning that collectors today appreciate their timepieces, with names such as Uni-Compax, Tri-Compax, and the famed Polerouter designed by Gerald Genta. Today, Universal’s chronograph wristwatches are highly sought after both for their modern mid-20th century aesthetic, fascinating dial variations, and superb quality.

    The present Tri-Compax is distinguished by its impressive and virtually "new old stock" condition. The dial barely shows any sign of aging, and the case remains as crisp as it was the day it left the factory. Such gems hardly appear on the market, no less is such untouched and original condition. As an added detail, it is even accompanied by its original vintage strap.

  • 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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195

Ref. 22279
An extremely rare and virtually "new old stock" triple calendar chronograph wristwatch with luminous dial

Circa 1950
35mm Diameter
Case, dial, movement and buckle signed

Estimate
CHF5,000 - 10,000 
€4,500-9,100
$5,400-10,900

Sold for CHF60,480

Contact Specialist

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

41 79 637 1724
aghotbi@phillips.com

 

 

The Geneva Watch Auction: XIII

Geneva Auction 8 - 9 May 2021