JAEGER.jpg
JAEGER-2.jpg
JAEGER-1.jpg
JAEGER-4.jpg
JAEGER-3.jpg
JAEGER.jpg
JAEGER-2.jpg
JAEGER-1.jpg
JAEGER-4.jpg
JAEGER-3.jpg

Jaeger Chronograph Ref. 224115 - Universal Geneve Cal 285 - 1940s

£3,850.00

  • Year: 1940s.

  • Movement: Manual wind column wheel chronograph ref. 285 by Universal Geneve.

  • Case: 35mm steel case.

  • Dial: Original Jaeger signed silver dial

  • Crystal: Acrylic crystal.

  • Strap: Tan leather strap.

  • This watch is sold as watch only, which is typical for vintage timepieces. We place greater value on condition, originality, and overall integrity than on whether a box or papers happen to be present. Many vintage watches have lost their packaging over time, and we don’t believe in inflating prices with non-original extras.

    If a watch does include genuine box and papers, this will always be clearly noted in the description. All purchases come with bespoke Watts On Watches packaging and full purchase documentation.

  • Every watch we sell is fully inspected and professionally serviced to meet our exacting standards. We stand by the quality of our stock, which is why every purchase comes with a 12-month warranty as standard.

  • Year: 1940s.

  • Movement: Manual wind column wheel chronograph ref. 285 by Universal Geneve.

  • Case: 35mm steel case.

  • Dial: Original Jaeger signed silver dial

  • Crystal: Acrylic crystal.

  • Strap: Tan leather strap.

  • This watch is sold as watch only, which is typical for vintage timepieces. We place greater value on condition, originality, and overall integrity than on whether a box or papers happen to be present. Many vintage watches have lost their packaging over time, and we don’t believe in inflating prices with non-original extras.

    If a watch does include genuine box and papers, this will always be clearly noted in the description. All purchases come with bespoke Watts On Watches packaging and full purchase documentation.

  • Every watch we sell is fully inspected and professionally serviced to meet our exacting standards. We stand by the quality of our stock, which is why every purchase comes with a 12-month warranty as standard.

The Jaeger Chronograph Ref. 224115 represents one of the most fascinating collaborations in Swiss watchmaking history. Produced in the 1940s, this chronograph combines Jaeger’s prestige with Universal Genève’s legendary Calibre 285, a column-wheel movement celebrated for its precision and reliability. Universal Genève was widely regarded at the time as the chronograph specialist, supplying movements not only for its own models but also for a handful of prestigious maisons. These chronographs were effectively “white label” creations, where Jaeger relied on UG’s world-class expertise, resulting in pieces that are today highly prized for their rarity and historical importance.

Key Features

  • Reference: 224115

  • Year: 1940s

  • Movement: Manual wind Universal Genève Calibre 285 column wheel chronograph

  • Case: 35mm steel case with rectangular pushers and snap-on caseback (typical of UG-powered models)

  • Dial: Original silver Jaeger-signed dial

  • Crystal: Acrylic

  • Strap: Tan leather strap

A Word on Condition

This watch remains in very good condition for a 1940s chronograph, retaining its original Jaeger-signed dial with even ageing. The case shows honest wear consistent with its age, preserving the sharp lines that distinguish UG-powered Jaeger chronographs.

Universal Genève vs Valjoux Jaeger Chronographs

During the 1940s, Jaeger produced chronographs powered by both Universal Genève and Valjoux movements. The Universal Genève Cal. 285 versions, such as this Ref. 224115, are far rarer and considered technically superior thanks to the smoothness and reliability of the column-wheel design. Valjoux-powered Jaeger chronographs were produced in greater numbers, making UG-powered examples highly desirable among collectors today. This distinction places the 224115 in a different league, combining scarcity with horological significance.

Why Buy This Watch

Collectors recognise the rarity and importance of the Jaeger Chronograph Ref. 224115. With only a limited number produced and powered by the Universal Genève Cal. 285, this piece is a tangible link to a unique era when Jaeger entrusted its chronographs to the acknowledged masters of the complication. The result is a highly collectible watch that embodies the best of two legendary brands. For enthusiasts of vintage chronographs, this Jaeger is an outstanding and historically significant acquisition.