Why This Watch Matters

Patina is the name of the game here, with this case displaying a reddish tone, proving that it was left untouched for a long time. In addition, the brushed silver dial is spotless, as we like it.

The Full Story

This two-register chronograph offers the look and legibility that made Universal Genève so popular. The numerals and blued hands in the sub-registers are well-proportioned and easy to spot in the 35 mm case. In the same vein, the base-1000 scale is easy to follow, printed in blue on the inner rehaut. The reddish oxidation on the case offers the most striking contrast against the silvered dial, creating a look you would be hard pressed to find elsewhere.

The Fine Print

Maker: Universal Genève
Model: Uni-Compax
Reference: 124118
Year: Circa 1960
Case No: 120, engraved in the inside of the case back
Material: 18k yellow gold
Dimensions: 34 mm diameter; 11 mm thickness
Sapphire Crystal: No, plexiglass
Lume: Yes, tritium
Caliber: Manual-winding Valjoux 23 movement signed as a Universal caliber 125
Bracelet/Strap: Black leather strap
Lug Width: 19 mm
Box/Papers: No

What we Love and What You Should Know

The oxidation to the yellow-gold case is quite obvious, but has taken a splendid red tone; its intensity shows that the case has not been polished for a while, which is further confirmed by the sharp lugs. The dial does not display any imperfections, save a couple of missing lume dots. The UG-signed crown is original, but the long yellow-gold seconds hand has been replaced. Note also that there are a couple of scratches to the case back and case bands. The gold hallmarks are very crisp, which offers additional proof that the integrity of the case was maintained, if ever polished.