Universal - Geneva Watch Auction: TWO Geneva Saturday, November 7, 2015 | Phillips

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  • Manufacturer: Universal
    Year: 1965
    Reference No: 22703/3
    Case No: 2'357'944
    Model Name: Aero-Compax
    Material: Stainless steel
    Calibre: Manual, cal. 130, 17 jewels
    Bracelet/Strap: Leather
    Clasp/Buckle: Stainless steel
    Dimensions: 40mm. Diameter
    Signed: Case, dial and movement signed
    Accessories: With an Extract from the Archives

  • Catalogue Essay

    Universal introduced its famous "Compax" chronograph family in 1935, the world's first chronograph wristwatch made in series with minute and hour registers. Universal successfully modernized its chronograph production over the next 40 years, and introduced a number of variants with specific additional functions pending the markets needs (pilots, doctors, engineers, etc.)

    This Aero-Compax was available with either 24-hour or 12-hour dials, the latter being rarer. Whereas the 24-hour watches were fitted with calibre UG90 (based on Venus 178), the 12-hour watches are equipped with Universal's calibre 130 based on the Valjoux 726.

    With its captivating two-tone dial, but also its superb ability to be worn daily, the present Aero-Compax has the right looks for a 1960s chronograph, paired with a very high degree of rarity.

  • 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. 22703/3
A large and very rare stainless steel chronograph wristwatch with two-tone dial and revolving bezel

1965
40mm. Diameter
Case, dial and movement signed

Estimate
CHF10,000 - 15,000 

Sold for CHF23,750

Contact Specialist
Nathalie Monbaron
+41 22 317 81 83

Geneva Watch Auction: TWO

Geneva Auction 7 & 8 November 2015 6:30pm