Universal Genève Chronographe ref. 22430

Universal Genève Chronographe ref. 22430

Name: Universal Genève Chronographe ref. 22430
Brand: Sabiwatches
Price: 4900.00 EUR
Availability: OutOfStock

1945 | Stainless steel | Manual | 34.5mm

€4.900,00

Universal Genève's chronograph output in the 1950s represents some of the finest two-register work produced by any Swiss manufacture of the era — and the Uni-Compax is its most enduring expression. The name itself was Universal's commercial designation for its bicompax chronograph line, a family that ran through several decades and case configurations, always anchored by the same clear, functional dial philosophy.

Reference 22430 wears the Spillmann case — a case style produced by the Spillmann & Co. case maker of La Chaux-de-Fonds, characterised by its elegant stepped profile and the distinctive screw-down pushers that give the case band its particular character. At 34.5mm, it sits at exactly the scale that makes 1950s chronographs so appealing today: compact enough to feel refined, substantial enough to wear with confidence.

The cream dial is a study in period clarity: two guilloché subdials at 9 and 3, the tachymeter and telemetry scales running the full periphery in blue, bold Arabic numerals at 12 and 6, and applied gold baton indices marking the intervening hours. The "Uni-Compax" signature sits cleanly below centre. The whole ensemble is presented on its period steel bracelet, a detail that transforms the wearing experience entirely.

This example presents in excellent condition throughout — a complete, honest, and thoroughly compelling Universal Genève.

SPECIFICATIONS

Reference   22430
Year   1945
Diameter   34.5 mm
Movement   Manual
Dial color   Champagne
Case material   Stainless steel
Bracelet material   Leather
Accessories

Original buckle

CONDITION

Case Very good
Dial Very good
Movement Serviced
Hands Very good
Crown Very good
Warranty 12 months

Universal Genève

Established in 1894 in Le Locle, Switzerland, Universal Genève quickly became a pioneer in the world of Swiss horology, particularly noted for its expertise in crafting chronographs. By the mid-20th century, the brand had gained a stellar reputation for producing some of the finest and most innovative wristwatches of the time. Universal Genève was a trailblazer in the development of micro-rotor movements, with models like the Polerouter, designed by Gerald Genta, becoming iconic for their technical precision and elegant design. The brand's Compax series, including Tri-Compax and Aero-Compax, revolutionized chronograph design and were beloved by professionals in aviation and motorsports.

Universal Genève's focus on creating both functional and aesthetically pleasing timepieces made it one of the premier Swiss watchmakers of the 20th century. Today, vintage Universal Genève models are highly coveted by collectors due to their historical significance, craftsmanship, and classic designs that remain timeless. Universal Genève’s enduring legacy in watchmaking innovation and elegance secures its place among the greats in horology.

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