Universal Genève. A Stainless Steel Chronograph with Tropical Dial
Model: Aero-Compax
Case No: 109xxxx
Circa: 1945
Cal. 285 mechanical jeweled movement, tropical orange dial, luminous Arabic numerals, luminous hands, outer minute divisions, outer blue tachometer scale, four engine-turned subsidiary dials for constant seconds, 12 hour and 30 minute registers, and start time indication, circular case, two round chronograph buttons in the band, crown in left band for setting start time dial, screw back, case, dial, and movement signed.
More about Universal Genève:
With the success of their first chronograph in 1927, Universal Geneve built up a brand recognition that allowed them to introduce a number of new models in the 1930’s and 1940’s. The Compax model was launched in 1935 as the world’s first chronograph with an hour dial as well as minute one.
All chronographs at the time were produced with movements designed and manufactured entirely in-house, and the versatility of their chronograph movements allowed them to create a wide range of models. By 1940, Universal Geneve began assigning reference numbers that followed a system. The first number would indicate the case material used (in this case, 1 refers to 18k gold). The second number indicates the type of movement (1 for time-only, 2 for chronograph). The third number indicated the size of the base plate that housed the movement (2 refers to a caliber 281, 283, or 481). The last two numbers indicate the case design, in this instance a case that featured shorter curved and faceted lugs.
By the 1950’s, the Universal Geneve brand was represented in over 40 countries, including Venezuela, where the present watch was retailed. Universal Geneve’s presence in South America started in the 1930’s, having been affiliated with motor sports including the Mille Miglia, which brought car racers from South American countries to the Italian event. Although Universal Geneve watches were advertised by their retailers, it is rare to find an example that is actually stamped on the dial with the retailer’s name. Such pieces are sought after by collectors, and with the present watch being in NOS condition, it is an opportunity not to be missed.
Source: Universal Geneve Watch by Pietro Giuliano Sala