Universal Genève Vintage Watch Collection

nilomis · 2013-02-23T12:41:28Z

Discover Universal Genève watches, from asymmetrical cases to ultra-thin models and Compax chronographs. Explore the brand's history and diverse designs.

nilomis

WPS member · Horological Meandering forum

50 replies14598 views11 photos

Nilomis embarks on a fascinating exploration of Universal Genève, a brand he initially overlooked, inspired by a fellow collector. This multi-part series begins with a captivating photo essay showcasing a diverse range of UG watches, from asymmetrical cases to ultra-thin models and a gold Compax, inviting the community to share their knowledge and insights into this historically significant brand.

Inspired by the wonderful post by "noodia", check here: home.watchprosite.com
I queried some of my friends about this brand.

I knew absolutely nothing about Universal Geneve watches and I always associated those watches with the Polerouter watches (small, gold).

On a summary, it was a brand without any attraction to me.

Two dear friends decided to show me what Universal watches really were and here is what I could capture on two photo sessions.

I choose to divide this series in parts. On the first ones I will show the watches and the last one will be reserved for the results of my research and what I could learn about this brand.

Let's start with some wrist shots.

With the help of my granddaughter, two asymmetrical cases:

Ultra thin one

It's real thin

A static pic of a gold Compax.

Please, if you know something about this brand, be free to post here.

A great weekend to all,

Nilo

Key Points from the Discussion

Universal Genève produced a full range of calendar watches and chronographs, from Uni-Compax to Tri-Compax, with models often declined over nearly 20 years using different cases, dials, and hands but consistent calibers.
Universal Genève is considered one of the most interesting inactive Swiss brands, covering a wide commercial spectrum from ultra-thin dress watches to sporty asymmetrical divers and the iconic Compax family.
The author corrects a common misconception, stating that Universal cut ties with Martel around 1955 to start their own movement manufacture, leading to Martel's acquisition by Zenith in 1960 and influencing the development of the El Primero.
Universal's decline was partly due to strategic missteps, including the decision to go vertical and drop its partnership with Martel, and an early, full commitment to quartz technology.
A collector shares an anecdote about regretting passing up an immaculate UG chronometer in 18k gold with a pristine movement, highlighting the brand's quality and value.
Another collector showcases a very thin Universal Genève pocket watch with a manual wind wristwatch movement, noting its slim profile and Arabic numerals, and a surprising offer from the seller to buy it back at full price years later.

The Discussion

amanico

Feb 23, 2013

I passed on several, and your pics make me regret it... Best, Nicolas

cazalea

Feb 23, 2013

A very-thin pocket watch, with a manual wind wristwatch movement inside. The whole watch is thinner than this Seiko Bell Matic movement I bought it about 7-8 years ago, when visiting various watchmakers around town with Ken, my watch repair mentor. Later he bawled me out for not bargaining harder on the price. I think he had some grudge against the watchmaker who sold it to me. But I like its slim profile and Arabic numerals. Cazalea

nilomis

Feb 23, 2013

Today, on our weekly GTG, Mr. A. (famous by his collection of uncommon watches) was wearing this one: A U.G. Compressor sold by Tiffany: Forgive me for the lousy picture. The coffee shop that we went is the worst place on this universe for watch photography. Cheers, Nilo

nilomis

Feb 23, 2013

I have a friend that collects ONLY ultra thin watches. I already forward your post to him. Someday he will join us. Cheers, Nilo

tim_s

Feb 23, 2013

Its an unusually large (38mm) three hander with a 1200 cal. manual wind movement. and have just bought another with a 262 cal. movement (currently in the mail). I wish I was posting pics of this along with a tri compax but it remains on the list for now... Thanks, Tim

MervC

Feb 23, 2013

Made in the 1950s Love this the most.

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