Universal Geneve Uni-Compax (Ref. 32601-1), 1950s

Dealer description — Craft & Tailored

Universal Geneve has long been "the watch enthusiast's watch" as the brand's cult-like, but steadily growing following has remained out of the scope of the mega-mainstream. The brand isn't without a few icons, however, boasting unmistakable models such as the Gerald Genta-designed Polerouter, the "Nina Rindt" Compax chronographs, and the ultra-complicated Tri-Compax that Eric Clapton made famous for wearing. Born in 1894 in Le Locle, Switzerland, as Universal Watch, the co-founders, Ulysse Perret and Numa Descombes, originally set out as a watch part manufacturer, but as their business grew, so did their offerings. In 1919, they moved their operation to Geneva, officially creating Universal Geneve. By 1925, UG had designed its first automatic movement known as the Auto Rem. Though Universal Geneve eventually produced a broad range of watches intended for vastly different applications, each model shared one crucial commonality: elegance. The Universal Genève Uni-Compax is one of the brand’s most iconic chronograph models, celebrated for its clean design, balanced layout, and technical refinement. Introduced in the 1930s and evolving through the decades, the Uni-Compax line typically features a two-register configuration and elegant proportions that bridge the gap between sport and dress. Revered by collectors for its variety of dial designs, case shapes, and dependable in-house calibers, the Uni-Compax represents Universal Genève at its best—timeless, functional, and beautifully executed. SPECS Stock # UGUC326011 Brand Universal Geneve Style Uni-Compax Model 32601-1 Serial 22XXXXX Size Men's Material Chrome Plate W/ Stainless Steel Back Dial Brushed Silver Millimeters 36 Strap 2pc Handmade Leather Strap CASE & BRACELET The excellent chrome-plated brass case is in crisp condition, retaining sharp angles with light signs of use. The case retains its original square pushers and crown signed with the Universal Geneve shield. The case back exhibits minimal wear and strong finishing. The watch comes supplied on a 2pc leather strap. DIAL & HANDS The original two-tone dial is comprised of a dramatic vertically brushed silver center dial, and a stepped satin outer tachymeter scale with blue printing for a touch of color. The dial is in wonderful vintage condition and exhibits minor age, most notably in the form of faint hand drag around the "Universal Geneve" text and in the right sub-dial. The radium lume plots have achieved a beige patina and exhibit no degradation under UV light inspection. The original radium dauphine hands have achieved a slightly lighter patina than the dial with no degradation present under UV light inspection. ACCESSORIES None. The watch is keeping time, but the service history is unknown. A movement service can be provided upon request.