Universal - The Hong Kong Watch Auction: NINE Hong Kong Monday, November 25, 2019 | Phillips

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  • Manufacturer: Universal
    Year: Circa 1968
    Reference No: 881101/01
    Case No: 2’684’837
    Model Name: Tri-Compax
    Material: Stainless steel
    Calibre: Manual, cal. 281, 17 jewels
    Bracelet/Strap: Stainless steel Universal Genève Gay Freres bracelet, endlinks stamped UW, max length 190mm
    Clasp/Buckle: Stainless steel Universal Genève Gay Freres deployant clasp stamped "2,70"
    Dimensions: 36mm Diameter
    Signed: Dial, case, movement, bracelet and clasp signed
    Accessories: Further delivered with Universal Genève Extract from the Archives, extra leather strap and Universal Genève stainless steel pin buckle

  • Catalogue Essay

    The Universal Genève Compax models were one of the most successful chronograph wristwatches produced by any manufacturer since its rise in popularity in the 1940’s when it was initially launched. To commemorate the firm’s golden jubilee anniversary, the Tri-Compax was introduced in 1944. With an upgraded cal. 281 featuring a triple calendar chronograph complication, the watch was ground-breaking as it is yet practical, legible and extremely well proportioned. The model name “Tri-Compax” is derived from the triple calendar function with day, date, month and moon phases.

    With an attractive dial layout featuring vibrant colored chronographic hand and graphics, the watch holds a unique identity. The present example is referred to by many as the “Clapton” Universal.

  • 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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1100

Ref. 881101/01
A fine and rare stainless steel triple calendar chronograph wristwatch with moon phases and bracelet

Circa 1968
36mm Diameter
Dial, case, movement, bracelet and clasp signed

Estimate
HK$130,000 - 200,000 
€14,800-22,800
$16,700-25,600

Sold for HK$200,000

Contact Specialist

Thomas Perazzi
Head of Watches, Asia
thomasperazzi@phillips.com
+852 2318 2001

The Hong Kong Watch Auction: NINE

Hong Kong Auction 25-26 November 2019