Universal Genève Compax 1950

Universal Genève is a very special brand, and one that most of us here at Analog:Shift — as well as vintage watch enthusiasts around the world — feel very strongly about.

While probably best known for the Polerouter, the line of chronographs known as the 'Compax' is just as notable. For us, it ranks as one of the most desired models of vintage chronographs, full stop.

Ever since its debut in the 1940s, the Polerouter has seen numerous iterations ranging from elegant dress pieces to sporty racing chronographs with more substantial cases.

This example, a Reference 884.480, exists somewhere in the middle. There’s an undoubted elegance to the layout of the dial, but the steel case lends itself to more of a utilitarian timepiece — an exercise in design balance that resides in every Universal Genève.

Dating to the early 1990s, it features a 35.5mm stainless steel case with a silver-over-black tachymeter insert, barrel chronograph pushers, and a signed, screw-down crown. Light dances on its silver sunburst dial and is contrasted beautifully by a black triple-register display topped with gold accents. And for the movement, Universal Genève used the hand-wound Lemania Calibre 1873 — essentially an Omega Caliber .861.

Given its recent purchase by Breitling, UG is clearly having a moment — and deservedly so. And while Polerouters get all the shine, Compaxes remain relatively under the radar for the horological civilian.

Try it on and see why it’s an Analog:Shift favorite today!

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.

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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.