Universal Genève Compax

Universal Genève is a very special brand, and one that most of us here at Analog:Shift and vintage enthusiasts alike feel very strongly about.

While probably best known for the Polerouter, the line of chronographs known as the 'Compax' is a close second - and for us, the ranks as one of the most desired models of vintage chronographs, full stop.

Ever since its debut in the 1940s, it has seen numerous iterations ranging from more complicated and elegant dress pieces - to proper sporty racing chronographs with a more substantial case.

This particular Compax, a 'Compax 1950,' represents the last of the breed. These were produced in the 1990s as a last-attempt to capture the essence of of what UG always excelled at — the chronograph. They were offered in a variety of metals and different dial colors, and all came in with a 36mm twisted-lug case and housed the venerable Lemania 1863 within (essentially the Omega Cal. .861).

This particular example, a Reference 284.445, features a crisp, matte white dial with applied indices and a matching 'dauphine' handset, a signed crown, and a signed brown leather strap with its original two-tone signed deployant clasp.

The culmination of design details like the dial with the applied 'U' logo at 12:00, the gorgeous twisted-lug case, and the elegant dauphine handset, leave us with a truly excellent package that represents phenomenal value next to its predecessors — which are great value when pitted against better know competitors in its day such as the Rolex Daytona and Heuer Carrera. 

In the market for a clean and sporty chronograph? Universal Geneve is one of the first brands you should seriously consider. And for under $5k, you really can't beat it.

Universal Genève was founded in 1894 by Numa-Emile Descombes and Ulysse George Perret.
In the brand's earliest days, it established itself as a manufacturer of in-house movements of exceptional quality. Universal Genève was also among the first watch manufactures to specialize in wristwatches. In 1897, Louis Eduoard Berthoud — noted designer of complicated watch movements — joined the company. His involvement ensured Universal Genève's supremacy in the development of complicated watches in the 20th Century.
It was under Berthoud's leadership that the brand's reputation as a producer of chronographs was solidified. Chronographs, in particular — namely the Compur and the Compax lines — attracted the attention of watch aficionados, aviators, and militaries around the world. Even the Royal Family of the Netherlands issued a royal charter for Universal Genève to outfit the Dutch military with its chronographs.
Universal Genève was also once responsible for some of the most beautiful dress and time-only watches of the mid-20th century. From the purpose-driven Polerouter to the ornate Cabriolet, UG had a touch all its own and breathed incredible beauty and craftsmanship into every piece they produced. Although the brand is currently dormant, there is tremendous interest in collector circles for vintage models, and is regarded very highly by horological historians and design enthusiasts alike.

Our Pledge

Analog:Shift stands behind the authenticity of our products in perpetuity.

Condition

Since our pieces are vintage or pre-owned, please expect wear & patina from usage and age. Please read each item description and examine all product images.

Warranty

We back each Analog:Shift vintage timepiece with a one-year mechanical warranty from the date of purchase.

International Buyers

Please contact us prior to purchase for additional details on shipping and payment options.

All of our watches include complementary insured shipping within the 50 states.

Most of our products are on hand and will ship directly from our headquarters in New York City. In some cases, watches will be shipped directly from one of our authorized partners.

We generally ship our products via FedEx, fully insured, within 5 business days of purchase. An adult signature is required for receipt of all packages for insurance purposes. Expedited shipping is available at an additional cost. We are also happy to hand deliver your purchase in Manhattan or you may pick it up at our showroom.

Returns must be sent overnight or by priority international delivery, fully insured and paid for by the customer. A restocking fee may apply. Watches must be returned in the same condition as initially shipped.

We welcome international buyers, please contact us prior to purchase for additional details on shipping and payment options.