Universal Geneve Uni-Compax Ref. 22296-4

Universal Geneve, a name that resonates with prestige and heritage in the Swiss watch industry, has been a beacon of innovation and craftsmanship since its inception in 1894. The brand’s vintage pieces are admired worldwide for their timeless elegance and intricate mechanics. Among these, the Uni-Compax range holds a special place, embodying the essence of Universal Geneve’s commitment to precision and style.

The brand’s journey began in Le Locle, Switzerland, where it was initially established as Universal Watch. It was here that the founders, Numa Emile Descombes and Ulysse Georges Perret, both horology students, patented the brand’s first 24-hour indication watch. The company later relocated to Geneva in 1919, solidifying its status as a Swiss powerhouse.

One of the brand’s most significant contributions to the watch industry was the creation of the Compax chronograph wristwatch in 1935. This timepiece, equipped with 12-hour and 30-minute counters, was a marvel of mechanical engineering and design. It marked the beginning of the brand’s Chronograph and “Watch Couturier” era, setting a new standard in the industry.

In 1954, Universal Geneve launched the Polerouter (originally named Polarouter), designed by the legendary Gerald Genta. This timepiece was created to commemorate SAS’s (Scandinavian Airlines Systems) polar flights from New York/Los Angeles directly to Europe. The Polerouter, with its unique style and understated design, became an iconic, instantly recognisable timepiece.

However, the advent of quartz technology in the late 1960s, often referred to as the Quartz Crisis, posed a significant challenge to many traditional Swiss watch brands, including Universal Geneve. The brand, which had been a giant in the industry, faced financial difficulties during this period. Despite these challenges, Universal Geneve’s legacy lived on, and its vintage pieces continued to be highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts.

Today, I am thrilled to present one of my favourite watches we have ever offered for sale - the Universal Geneve Uni-Compax Ref. 22296-4. This remarkable timepiece, hailing from the 1950s, is a testament to the era’s charm and Universal Geneve’s horological prowess. It features a manual wind Universal Geneve 281 movement, a column wheel chronograph that is a marvel of mechanical engineering.

The watch’s aesthetics are equally impressive. It boasts a 35mm case with a step bezel and a tonneau-style shape, extending to a 41mm lug-to-lug distance. The original cream dial, adorned with an applied logo and alpha hands, exudes a vintage allure that is hard to resist. Due to the age of these pieces, and their low water resistance rating, many dials have gone on to be refinished. Original dial examples such as the one we have here today are very hard to come by. Although the dial shows light signs of ageing, having an original dial is much preferred to one that has received after market finishing, this is one for those with a fine eye for details. Protecting this beautiful dial is an acrylic crystal, adding to the watch’s overall vintage aesthetic.

Complementing the watch is an 18mm handmade leather strap, enhancing its classic appeal. This watch, steeped in history and sophistication, is available for an incredible value of only 2900 pounds.

As with all watches bought through Watts on Watches, we offer a 12-month warranty on all purchases, ensuring peace of mind with your investment. Please note, it is common for vintage watches to not come with box and papers unless. In the rare instance that a watch does come with box and papers, it will be mentioned in the description. Rest assured, all purchases come with bespoke Watts On Watches packaging and purchase documentation.