A UNIQUE VINTAGE UNIVERSAL GENEVE MEN’S 18K ROSE GOLD MANUAL CHRONOGRAPH TRIPEL CALENDAR MOON PHASE WRISTWATCH.
TRI-COMPAX, TRIPLE CALENDAR, MOON PHASE WITH FACETED LUGS.

Brand: Universal Geneve
Model: Tri-Compax
Year: Circa 1944
Movement: Manual, chronograph, Cal. 481, No. 212XXX
Dial: Silvered with a tropical patina, gilt Arabic numerals with rhodium applied dots, black outer minute division, blued hands with tritium insert, blued centre seconds hand for the chronograph, subsidiary dial for the seconds at the nine o'clock position, subsidiary dial for the chronograph minutes at the three o'clock position, subsidiary dial for the chronograph hours at the six o'clock position, subsidiary dial for date of the month at the twelve o'clock position with moon phase aperture, aperture for the day of the week at the ten o'clock position, aperture for the month at the two o'clock position, "Swiss" dial
Material: 18k rose gold
Bracelet/Strap: Brown leather
Signed: Dial, movement, case
Dimension: 35mm

Historical Significance and Exceptional Craftsmanship

The Universal Genève Tri-Compax, possibly from 1944, is a remarkable timepiece that showcases the pinnacle of horological innovation and design. Crafted in 18k rose gold, this watch is a testament to Universal Genève’s commitment to excellence and their pioneering spirit in the world of watchmaking. This particular model, believed to be a prototype from the Baselworld show in 1944, is an extraordinary find for collectors and enthusiasts.

The Universal Genève Tri-Compax is renowned for its intricate complications, featuring a triple calendar and moonphase. The dial displays the day of the month, day of the week, and month, providing comprehensive calendar functionality. The moonphase indicator adds a touch of astronomical elegance, enhancing both the watch’s aesthetic appeal and its technical sophistication.

This watch boasts several unique design elements that suggest it may have been a prototype used during the 1944 Baselworld show when the Tri-Compax model was first introduced. The deep engraving of “Universal Genève” on the back, along with the distinctive font used, and the extremely rare faceted lugs on the case, all point to its special status. These features not only enhance the watch’s rarity but also its historical significance.

The watch is housed in an exquisite 18k rose gold case, which adds a touch of luxury and sophistication. The faceted lugs are particularly rare and distinctive, providing a unique design element that sets this watch apart from other models. The case, with its polished surfaces and refined detailing, reflects Universal Genève’s dedication to quality craftsmanship.

At the heart of this Tri-Compax is the Universal Genève Caliber 481, a manual winding chronograph movement celebrated for its precision and reliability. The Caliber 481 powers the watch’s chronograph, triple calendar, and moonphase functions, ensuring accurate timekeeping and smooth operation. This movement underscores the watch’s practical functionality and technical prowess.

The Universal Genève Tri-Compax made its debut at the Baselworld fair from April 22nd to May 2nd, 1944, marking the company’s 50th anniversary of continuous production. The introduction of the Tri-Compax, featuring a triple calendar and moonphase, quickly propelled it to fame as Universal Genève’s best-selling watch. The model’s prestige was further cemented when a Tri-Compax was presented to US President Harry Truman during the 1945 Potsdam Conference, highlighting its significance and desirability.

For collectors, the vintage Universal Genève Tri-Compax in 18k rose gold is a highly desirable piece due to its historical significance, unique design, and exceptional craftsmanship. Its association with the 1944 Baselworld show, along with the prototype characteristics, makes it a standout item in any collection. The watch’s excellent condition and original features further enhance its appeal, ensuring it remains a valuable addition to any horological repertoire.