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Universal Geneve Compax oversized chronograph

1950 | Stainless steel | Manual | 37.0mm

Sale price€6.900,00

Universal Genève launched the Compax in 1935, and with it the first chronograph wristwatch made in series with both a minute and an hour counter. That three-register layout, seconds at nine, minutes at three and hours at six, became the template almost every chronograph has followed since.

This reference 224105 dates from the mid-1940s and comes in the 37mm water-resistant case, a big size for the time. Collectors call these the oversized Compax, and in that period Universal was alone in offering a three-register chronograph this large with a water-resistant case. The cream dial is a beauty: gold Arabic numerals at 12, 10, 8, 4 and 2, gold dots for the other hours, gold leaf hands and a blued central chronograph hand sweeping over the tachymeter scale. Condition is excellent. It comes on a taupe suede strap.

A real piece of chronograph history, in the size that makes it easy to wear today.

Universal Geneve Compax oversized chronograph
Universal Geneve Compax oversized chronograph Sale price€6.900,00

SPECIFICATIONS

Reference   224105
Year  
1950
Diameter  
37.0 mm
Movement  
Manual
Dial color  

Case material  
Stainless steel
Bracelet material  
Leather
Accessories

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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