A Stunning Universal Geneve Polerouter Automatic with a 10k Gold-Filled Case and Corresponding Gold Dial in Wonderful Vintage Condition, c.1962

Universal Genve is a prestigious Swiss watchmaker known for its exceptional craftsmanship and timeless design. The company was founded in 1894 by Numa-Emile Descombes and Ulysse Perret, who aimed to create timepieces that would revolutionize the watch industry. Over the years, Universal Genve has become synonymous with innovation, precision, and elegance. In the early 20th century, Universal Genve introduced several groundbreaking technologies that set them apart from other watchmakers.

In 1917, they unveiled the first-ever chronograph wristwatch with a single-button mechanism. This invention paved the way for future advancements in chronograph technology. During World War II, Universal Genve gained popularity among military personnel due to their reliable timepieces. Their watches were favored by pilots and soldiers alike for their accuracy and durability in extreme conditions. This further solidified Universal Genve’s reputation as a trusted brand.

In the 1950s and 1960s, Universal Genve expanded its collection with iconic models such as the Polerouter and Tri-Compax. The Polerouter was designed in collaboration with renowned aviation pioneer Gerald Rodenbaugh and became famous for its ability to withstand magnetic fields encountered during long-haul flights. The Tri-Compax featured a highly complicated movement with multiple sub-dials for measuring different time intervals. However, like many traditional watchmakers, Universal Genve faced challenges during the Quartz Crisis of the 1970s when cheap quartz watches flooded the market.

Despite this setback, they continued producing mechanical watches of exceptional quality. Today, vintage Universal Genve watches are highly sought after by collectors around the world. Their timeless designs coupled with their historical significance make them prized possessions among horology enthusiasts.

Whats On Offer

A stylish and beautiful 10k gold-filled Universal Geneve, Polerouter with calibre 1-69 Micro-Rotor Automatic movement with 17 jewels. The watch was produced c. 1962 and was recently serviced by our master watchmaker, so it is running well and keeping good time. It is a rather charming example of the Polerouter with all the opulence of a solid gold watch but without the exorbitant tag! The dial is a nice even gold with beautiful applied baton hour markers with onyx inserts and corresponding hands. There is a subtle date aperture at 3 o’clock and a Universal Geneve signature at 12. The dial is encapsulated underneath the shatterproof acrylic crystal, and the10k gold-filled case is in very nice condition. This is a really beautiful watch, it’s a nice size and wears exquisitely on the wrist. A great buy!