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- 1941 Universal Geneve Oversized 38mm Compax - Ref. 12510
1941 Universal Geneve Oversized 38mm Compax - Ref. 12510
An extremely rare and elegant Oversized Chronograph.
WHY IS THIS WATCH SPECIAL
The Compax is a quintessential chronograph from Universal Genève; with its balanced dial and well-proportioned case, this watch has maintained its timelessness flawlessly. This solid gold Compax illustrates the beauty of Universal Genève’s production in the 1940s, with it's rare and original perfect black/gold glossy dial matching gold 'leaf' hands. This particulary elegant example boasts an impressive oversized 38mm case,Universal Genève chronographs were usually much smaller at the time.
Launched in around 1935, the Universal Genève Compax range of chronographs featured for the first time in watchmaking history a movement with the second column wheel under the dial.
THE STORY
1894 The origins
Talented watch makers Numa Emile Descombes and Ulysse Georges Perret, found a company specializing in making complicated watches. Foreign trade develops rapidly and products are enthusiastically received.
1897 Early successes
Descombes dies and Perret associates with Louis Edouard Berthoud in making complete pocket-watches. In 1898 they present a chronograph with 30-counter, the Universal Watch Extra, and subsequently release their first wristwom chronograph in 1917.
1934 A legend in the making
The company is renamed Universal Watch, relocates to Geneva and enjoys impressive and international growth. A succession of elegant and complicated models — the Compax, Aero-Compax and Tri-Compax (1930-40), Polerouter (1954) and Microtor UG66 (1966) — leave and indelible imprint on their area.
1960’s A brand on the move
In keeping with its taste for innovation, Universal Genève launches the world’s thinnest quartz calibre in 1975. During the 1980s and 90s, the brand enjoys an impressive international reputation and its represented in South-East Asia, the Middle East and Italy
Since its inception, Universal Genève has produced watches with unusually high quality for their price point. Universal Genève was among the first brands to introduce a chronograph wristwatch. From 1935 onwards the Compax was the ultimate three-register chronograph from Universal Genève. The immaculate black glossy dial is one of the main highlights of this watch, as it neatly matches the tone of the 18k solid gold case. Additionally, the 38mm size, combined with its thinness, makes for a very modern and comfortable watch.
Today, the firm's vintage models are highly sought-after and desired for their elegant case and dial designs.
THE DATA
- Maker: Universal Geneve
- Model: Compax
- Reference: 12510
- Case N°: 811xxx
- Year: 1941
- Material: 18k Solid Yellow Gold
- Dimensions (WxHxT): 38x44x12,5mm
- Caliber: In House Universal 287
- Bracelet/Strap: Black Leather
- Lug width: 20mm
- Box/Papers: N/A
THE IMPORTANT DETAILS
This watch is in extremely good condition for its age. Black dials are very rare and this particular original one is like new, this chronograph looks absolutely great. This is a fine and rare vintage Universal Genève, elegant and dashing, with a nice presence on the wrist, perfect for everyday or more formal wear.