Description
Age: Manufactured in 1945 per serial number dating tables direct from Universal Geneve
Maker: Universal Geneve
Case: Solid stainless steel snapback case. Signed inside with the Universal Geneve logo. Case back contains the serial number and reference number. Engraved “JMG RA 18205212”. While this is not a military issued piece by any means, the inscription corresponds to a solider identification number for a member of the British Royal Artillery. Dating of the RA number corroborates dating on the watch itself as the RA number post dates World War I, and adds a unique and charming bit of provenance to an exemplary piece.
Cleaned, likely unpolished case; the original lines and angles all intact.
Correct, unsigned crown
Crystal has recently been replaced
Dial: Clean, correct dial for this reference, with factory paint–never re-painted. Nicely aged luminous hour markers are original. Signed Universal Geneve, Swiss.
Correct, though seldom seen “Alpha” style hands with original luminous material makes this piece quite unique, as most hands seen on the Tri-Compax are the more typical “Sword” luminous style or blued steel “leaf” style.
Movement: Universal Geneve calibre 481. These complicated movements were among the most technically advanced ‘mass market’ time pieces of their era and rivaled the very best from the likes of Movado, Vacheron, Jaeger LeCoultre, and Patek Philippe.
Manual wind, chronograph. 17 Jewels.
Frequency: 18,000 beats per hour.
Signed Universal Geneve, with correctly serialized movement (only seen in earlier period movements).
Recently serviced by our master watchmaker. Excellent running condition, keeping good time.
Dimensions: 41mm x 35 mm without crown, 37mm with crown. 19 mm strap.
Condition: Truly remarkable overall condition, for a great Tri-Compax watch by Universal. These pieces are currently undervalued, but have been rapidly appreciating with recent coverage by Hodinkee and other vintage watch publications. There were only two watch brands that were worthy enough to be carried by the renowned Henri Stern Watch Agency in NYC: Patek and Universal. This heritage, combined with an in-house calibre and timeless styling makes this one of the most desirable vintage wrist watches today. Pieces like this represent the upper echelon of preservation and condition and are considered investment quality watches.
Strap: Pictured on a vintage stitch, Horween Shell leather strap, which perfectly compliments the colors of the vintage lume. Add a signed, period Universal buckle here.
Shipping & Payment: Due to the value, payment will only be accepted via Bank wire, Cashiers check or other direct payment methods. References are available. For domestic and international orders, will only ship FedEx, signature on delivery. Please select this option on check out to avoid additional charges later.
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