Universal - The Geneva Watch Auction: X Geneva Saturday, November 9, 2019 | Phillips

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  • Manufacturer: Universal
    Year: 1941
    Reference No: 22409
    Case No: 804'825, caseback furher engraved RLM-Nav. and issue number 5453.
    Model Name: Compur
    Material: Stainless steel
    Calibre: Manual, cal 386, 17 jewels
    Bracelet/Strap: Leather
    Clasp/Buckle: Stainless steel pin buckle
    Dimensions: 38mm Diameter
    Signed: Case, dial and movement signed
    Accessories: Accompanied by Universal Genève Extract from the Archives confirming production of the watch in 1941 and delivery to the German Aviation Ministry

  • Catalogue Essay

    The present Universal Genève Compur has a large 38mm case, black dial and silver print.

    The watch was made for the German Luftwaffe as attested by the RLM engraving on the case back. RLM which stands for Reichs luftsfahr ministerium (Minsistry of Aviation) was in activity between 1933 and 1945. The numbers 5453 indicates most certainly an issue number.

    Considering the clean condition of the case with sharp angles and crisp edges, it is safe to assume the watch spent very little time strapped on a pilot’s wrist.

  • 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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252

Ref. 22409
A large stainless steel military chronograph wristwatch

1941
38mm Diameter
Case, dial and movement signed

Estimate
CHF6,000 - 8,000 
€5,600-7,500
$6,200-8,300

Sold for CHF10,000

Contact Specialist
Alexandre Ghotbi
Head of Watches, Continental Europe and the Middle East
+ 41 79 637 1724
aghotbi@phillips.com

The Geneva Watch Auction: X

Geneva Auction 9-10 November 2019