Universal - The Hong Kong Watch Auction: XVII Hong Kong Friday, November 24, 2023 | Phillips

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  • Manufacturer: Universal
    Year: Circa 1960
    Reference No: 22297-3
    Case No: 1’896’523
    Model Name: Tri-Compax
    Material: Stainless steel
    Calibre: Manual, cal. UG 281, 17 jewels
    Bracelet/Strap: Leather
    Clasp/Buckle: Stainless steel pin buckle
    Dimensions: 34.5mm diameter
    Signed: Case, dial and movement signed

  • Catalogue Essay

    With roots tracing back to the 1940s, the Universal Tri-Compax commemorated the manufacture's 50th anniversary through an intricate display of watchmaking mastery. Characterized by its triple complications - full calendar, chronograph, and moon phases - the Tri-Compax reflects Universal's increasing popularity among collectors and scholars who appreciate its bold proportions and reliable calibers.

    The beauty of the Tri-Compax lies in its dial design, both complex yet balanced. Powered by the cal. 281 movement, the watch is instantly recognizable by its sculpted lugs with strong definition, giving incredible wrist presence.

    Furthermore, the present Tri-Compax is a rare example with small chronograph pushers nicknamed “Spillino” by Itallian collectors. Though initially created as a sports watch, many surviving examples today exhibit heavy polishing from wear. Yet this Tri-Compax remains very well preserved, with crisp case number and reference markings, encapsulating a remarkable testimony to the manufacture's rich history.

  • 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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Property from an Important Asian Collector

876

Lot offered with No Reserve

Ref. 22297-3
A rare and attractive stainless steel triple calendar chronograph wristwatch with moon phases

Circa 1960
34.5mm diameter
Case, dial and movement signed

Estimate
HK$50,000 - 80,000 
€6,000-9,600
$6,400-10,300

Sold for HK$35,560

Contact Specialist

Thomas Perazzi
Deputy Chairman, Watches, Head of Watches, Asia
+852 2318 2001
WatchesHK@phillips.com

The Hong Kong Watch Auction: XVII

Hong Kong Auction 24-25 November 2023