Universal - Geneva Watch Auction: FOUR Geneva Friday, November 11, 2016 | Phillips

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  • Manufacturer: Universal
    Year: 1968
    Reference No: 885'104/01
    Case No: 2'730'848
    Model Name: Space-Compax
    Material: Stainless steel
    Calibre: Manual, cal. UG 85 based on a Valjoux 726 (72), 17 jewels
    Bracelet/Strap: Stainless steel JB Champion bracelet, end links stamped 55, max length 210mm.
    Clasp/Buckle: Folding deployant clasp stamped 9-77
    Dimensions: 37mm. Diameter
    Signed: Case, dial, movement and bracelet signed
    Accessories: Accompanied by fitted presentation box with outer packaging, hang tag, blank certificate of guarantee and an Extract from the Archives confirming date of manufacture on 1968

  • Catalogue Essay

    In 1917, Universal Genève created its first ever chronograph wristwatch. Some 18 years later, they launched their first “Compax” watch, with many variations to follow. Today, vintage Universal Genève’s sports watches are especially sought after thanks to their extraordinary diversity, appealing designs, and large, well-proportioned cases. One of Universal’s most unusual yet attractive chronograph designs was their “Space-Compax.” Considering it is a diver’s chronograph, the choice of this model’s name remains somewhat of a mystery, but most likely stemmed from the public’s increasing fascination with space travel during the 1960s.

    The model was produced in two versions: one with black on black subsidiary dials and the second, like the present watch, with white contrasting subsidiary dials and a large 12 o’clock marker. Featuring rubber push buttons, and a hermetic winding crown, the “Space-Compax” was waterproof to withstand pressure up to 750 feet. The Space-Compax was designed for underwater use, and is fitted with a black rotating bezel and rubber-capped chronograph pushers. Bold hands, luminous hour markers, and red accents complement the masculine, oversized case giving it an absolutely modern appearance despite being nearly half a century old. Fitted with the caliber UG85, this rare model is well preserved in fantastic overall condition.

  • 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. 885'104/01
A fine and attractive stainless steel chronograph wristwatch with black dial, rotating bezel, rubber chronograph pushers, red chronograph hand, bracelet and box

1968
37mm. Diameter
Case, dial, movement and bracelet signed

Estimate
CHF10,000 - 15,000 
€9,200-13,800
$10,300-15,500

Sold for CHF18,750

Contact Specialist
Alexandre Ghotbi
+41 22 317 81 89

Geneva Watch Auction: FOUR

Geneva Auctions 12 – 13 November 2016