1947 Universal Geneve Military - F.A.B. (Força Aeria Brasileira) 1st Serie Rose gold - Ref. 12494
An extremely rare and striking Military Chronograph made for the Brasilian Air Force.
WHY IS THIS WATCH SPECIAL
Universal Genève delivered, under contract with the Brazilian Ministery of Defense, 2 batches of chronographs for their fighter pilots. The chronograph featured here is the first execution from 1947 (Ref. 12494), later in 1950 they delivered a second serie (Ref. 124107). Both versions were all manufactured in solid 18k Pink Gold... We can say that, at the time, fighter pilots had some style !
This particular example is, after 77 years and most of the time in a safe having thus been preserved from UV and humidity, like new, a real unfindable and collectible time capsule.
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 Compax illustrates the beauty of Universal Genève’s production in the 1940s, with a two-tone silver dial that bears military lume dots and complements the elegant yet modern 36mm stainless steel case.
This rare timepiece is in mint condition and houses an original flawless dial with 'Sword' blued hands. 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
Universal Genève was founded in LeLocle, Switzerland in 1894 and was known as "Universal Watch". 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 two-tone silver '3 scales' military dial is one of the main highlights of this watch, as it neatly matches the tone of the stainless steel case. Additionally, the 36mm 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: F.A.B. Compax
- Reference: 12494
- Case N°: 13615xx
- Year: 1947
- Material: Solid 18k Pink Gold
- Dimensions (WxHxT): 34x40x12mm
- Caliber: In House Universal 285
- Bracelet/Strap: Black Leather
- Lug width: 20mm
- Box/Papers: N/A
THE IMPORTANT DETAILS
This watch is in mint original condition. Universal Geneve military watches are very rare and this particular one is extremely well preserved, the original dial with 'Sword' blued steel hands is dashing. This is a fine and rare vintage military chronograph, elegant and collectible, with a nice presence on the wrist, perfect for everyday wear or more formal events.
