1943 Universal Geneve Tri-Compax 'Harry Truman' - Ref. 12551
A rare and fine Triple-Quantième iconic watch.
WHY IS THIS WATCH SPECIAL
The Universal Genève Tri-Compax is one of the most desirable and most collectible watch on the vintage market. This version, from 1943 is not exceptionnal by the fact that it was manufactured in the first months of the Tri-Compax production, but also because it is the same model that was worn by the American president Harry Truman.
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.
THE DATA
- Maker: Universal Genève
- Model: Tri-Compax (Aka 'Harry Truman')
- Reference: 12551
- Case N°: 1129XXX
- Year: 1943
- Material: Solid 18K Yellow Gold
- Dimentions (WxHxT): 36x45x12,5mm
- Caliber: In House UG 267
- Bracelet/Strap: Brown leather
- Lug width: 20mm
- Box/Papers: N/A
THE IMPORTANT DETAILS
This watch is in great condition with a very well preserved original dial, unscratched crystal, the gold hands and unrepolished case are also in great condition, all angles are very sharp. There is absolutely no sign of corrosion on the movement.
This is a great and rare timepiece, elegant and and highly collectible.
A nice presence on the wrist with its 36mm case, perfect for casual or formal wear.
