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.
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.