The first split-seconds chronograph mechanisms were found in pocket watches of the late 19th century when they were used for intermediate timing events such as lap times during horse racing, however by the turn of the century, and with the evolution of the wristwatch, single button (monopusher) chronographs became available, and in 1923 Patek Philippe sold the world’s first split-seconds chronograph wristwatch, which set the design for all that followed. Today, these timepieces are collectors’ favourite known for their complicated movements and classic aesthetic, and in particular oversized military split-chronographs from the mid-20th century are highly sought after. Manufactured by brands like Rolex, Eberhard, Breitling and Universal, these extreme timepieces are cool, masculine and iconic.

The present Universal split-seconds timepiece is a rare model made for the Italian Ministry of Defence and the Italian Air Force. Supplied through the well-known retailer A. Cairelli of Rome, the watch was used for navigation at a time when flight crews used dead reckoning and beacons to find their way. Universal chose a 24-hour dial design with 16-minute subsidiary register, which in the oversized 44.5mm diameter case is legible and easy to read during night missions. The retailer’s signature is prominently displayed at the 6 position and found on many military timepieces of the 20th century that are now highly collectible. Powered by the Valjoux 55 caliber, the same found in the famed Rolex reference 4113, it is a testament to precision timekeeping and functionality.

Preserved in excellent overall condition, the present example has a nicely aged original dial and confirmed through the Universal archives to have been manufactured as a “military rattrapante” wristwatch. It is a rare opportunity for collectors to encounter such fine timepieces and even more rare to own an example. The collaboration between the Italian Ministry of Defence and the retailer A. Cairelli is part of horological history, and these fine timepieces like the Universal split-chronograph will please all collectors.