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Universal Genève Polerouter De Luxe in rose gold with King Saud Bin Abdul Aziz portrait dial

1950 | Rose gold | Automatic | 36.0mm

Sale price€12.000,00

The Polerouter is already one of the great mid-century watch stories — born in 1954 to commemorate the first commercial transpolar flights of Scandinavian Airlines, and designed by a 23-year-old Gérald Genta who would go on to create the Royal Oak and the Nautilus. The 36mm rose gold case of reference 10234-2TL, with its elegant straight lugs characteristic of the early De Luxe, houses calibre 138SS — the original bumper automatic that powered the very first Polerouters, its characteristic oscillating weight providing a gentle thumping sensation with every movement of the wrist.

But this particular example goes several steps further. Some rare De Luxe examples feature portraits of Arabian kings — a testament to Universal's success in tailoring the watch to diverse international markets. This is precisely one of those pieces: the gold dial has been engraved with the portrait and name of King Saud Bin Abdul Aziz of Saudi Arabia, who reigned from 1953 to 1964 — almost certainly a diplomatic commission, offered as a royal gift.

This example presents in very good condition. Such pieces surface extremely rarely — a unique object with a historical dimension that no standard production watch can claim.

Universal Genève Polerouter De Luxe in rose gold with King Saud Bin Abdul Aziz portrait dial
Universal Genève Polerouter De Luxe in rose gold with King Saud Bin Abdul Aziz portrait dial Sale price€12.000,00

SPECIFICATIONS

Reference   10234-2TL
Year  
1950
Diameter  
36.0 mm
Movement  
Automatic
Dial color  
Or
Case material  
Rose gold
Bracelet material  
Alligator
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.