Girard Perregaux Tri-Compax, 1940s

Dealer description — S.Song Watches

While the Tri-Compax model is most commonly associated with Universal Genève, there exists a very rare variant that is not widely known—one branded by Girard-Perregaux. This example is, indeed, a Tri-Compax, but carries the Girard-Perregaux name on the dial. The Tri-Compax is widely regarded by collectors as a notable alternative to Patek Philippe, as both Universal Genève and Patek Philippe were marketed and sold in the United States by Henri Stern during the 1940s. Over the years, the Tri-Compax has become one of the most coveted vintage chronographs, admired for its intricate, reliable movement. The watch features a chronograph, a triple calendar, and a moon phase display—all shown through four distinct sub-dials on the dial. The stainless steel case measures a wonderful size of 37mm, featuring beautifully beveled lugs and a pair of low-profile chronograph pushers. Even though it's a chronograph, I’d argue that this Tri-Compax can easily double as an elegant dress watch as well, thanks to its refined proportions and delicate aesthetic. As for the movement, although stamped with the "Girard Perregaux" branding, the watch is powered by the manual-winding column wheel Universal Genève Cal. 287. The dial layout of this example may appear busy at first glance, but it is configured in a way that still maintains visual balance and legibility. It features the date and a moon phase at the 12:00 position, with the chronograph’s minute and hour counters, as well as the running seconds, aptly positioned below. The day and month are displayed through apertures at 2:00 and 10:00 respectively, while a silvered tachymeter scale and sword hands complete the ensemble. When it comes to vintage watch collecting, it’s all about the details, and this alternate Girard-Perregaux branding on this particular example makes it one of the rarest Tri-Compaxes out there, a truly unique find for collectors.