Universal - TOKI: Watch Auction Hong Kong Friday, November 22, 2024 | Phillips
  • Manufacturer: Universal
    Year: Circa 1968
    Reference No: 881101/03
    Case No: 2’684’564
    Model Name: Exotic Tri-Compax
    Material: Stainless steel
    Calibre: Manual, cal. 281, 17 jewels
    Bracelet/Strap: Stainless steel Universal Gay Frères bracelet, endlinks stamped “UW”, max length 200mm
    Clasp/Buckle: Stainless steel Universal Gay Frères deployant clasp
    Dimensions: 36mm diameter
    Signed: Case, dial, movement, bracelet and clasp signed
    Accessories: Accompanied by 2 additional links.

  • Catalogue Essay

    Amongst their most iconic Tri-compax like the “Eric Clapton” (panda) or the “Evil Clapton” (reverse panda), there comes a rarer series from the lineage that features Exotic dials, the present ref. 881101/03 is one of such. Boasting attractive black acrylic insert like the “Clapton” Tri-compax, this reference on the other hand features a highly scarce reverse panda slate grey dial, contrasting against its red chronograph hand and matching red French date wheel. Its outer minute track is printed in bright blue making it a highly legible chronograph. Furthermore the wide hour and minute hands are painted in white instead of steel to increase its readability against its muted grey dial.

    Extremely rare and collectible, according to scholarship, there are approximately less than 26 examples known, with the data indicating a batch ranging from 2’684’5XX – 2’684’8XX were produced. Notably, amongst these examples is a rare trait, a smaller batch within the production does not feature the “Tri-Compax” print at 6 o’clock like the present specimen. Fresh-to-the-market and preserved in stunning condition by a Japanese connoisseur, this Exotic Tri-Compax with a beautiful dial charmed with warm patina on the indexes is a rare bird. With signs of exceptional preservation, its serial and reference number still remains intact on the caseback. Furthermore, it is paired with its original UG Gay Frères bracelet.

  • 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 of a Japanese Collector

81

Ref. 881101/03
A highly rare and attractive stainless steel triple calendar chronograph wristwatch with moon phases, exotic slate grey dial and Gay Frères bracelet

Circa 1968
36mm diameter
Case, dial, movement, bracelet and clasp signed

Estimate
HK$120,000 - 200,000 

Sold for HK$482,600

Contact Specialist

Thomas Perazzi
Head of Watches, Asia
+852 2318 2030
WatchesHK@phillips.com

Gertrude Wong
Head of Sale, Hong Kong
+852 2318 2045
gertrudewong@phillips.com

TOKI: Watch Auction

Hong Kong Auction 22 November