Manufacturer: Universal Year: 1967 Reference No: 869116/02 Case No: 2'504'248 Model Name: Polerouter Sub Material: Stainless steel Calibre: Automatic, 26 jewels Bracelet/Strap: Stainless steel Universal Genève, max. length 200mm Clasp/Buckle: Stainless steel folding Universal Genève deployant clasp Dimensions: 38mm. Diameter Signed: Case, dial, movement and bracelet signed Accessories: Accompanied by 3 spare bezels in blue, black and red, and an Extract from the Archives
Catalogue Essay
World-renowned wristwatch designer Gérald Genta is recognized for his iconic staples within the highest luxury watch brands in the world, with his designs still being used to date. Before working with brands such as Patek Philippe, Audemars Piguet, Omega, IWC and Cartier, just to name a few, Genta got his first big break while working with Universal Genève who at the time was most recognized for their chronograph models.
The Universal Genève Polerouter was first released in 1955, replacing the “Polarouter” only one year later. The classic design by Gérald Genta housed a caliber 215 automatic movement and is considered to still have a traditional look today. It is not surprising that the lugs have a similar curvature and design that was later used for the Omega Seamaster.
Universal Genève created many variations of the celebrated Polerouter model. The present example is known as the Polerouter Sub, a diving watch that is distinguished by its rotating green bezel. This watch remains in pristine condition roughly 60 years later with sharp edges and clearly visible hallmarks and stampings, and is sure to please collectors with all different levels of experience.
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.