Universal Genève Rectangular Hooded Lugs

Founded in 1894, Universal Genève manufactured some of the most important chronographs of the 20th Century. Indeed, many of their complicated models are highly coveted by collectors for the wealth of information displayed on the dial; their handsome designs; and their utilitarian design.

Of course, the UG story didn’t start and end with only highly-complicated watchmaking. The Genta-penned Polerouter, a relatively simple time-only or time-and-date watch with an automatic movement — is without question an icon of mid-century watch design. And even during the Quartz Crisis, which ultimately proved the death of many a Swiss watch manufacture, UG plodded steadily along in delivering novel watches.

This particular Universal Genève is a simple Bauhaus-inspired piece from the 1950s. Housed in a 25mm x 33mm rectangular stainless steel snapback case with hooded lugs, it features a ‘box’ acrylic crystal, female spring bar strap fitment with a handsome, non-luminous salmon dial with printed ‘Roman’ and ‘stick’ indices, blued steel handset, and subsidiary seconds register at 6 o’clock.

Fitted to an Analog:Shift Atlantic Blue II Saffiano Strap and powered by the manually-wound Calibre 260 movement, this thin, attractive timepiece can easily do double duty as an everyday accessory or as a dedicated dress watch. Executed in a resurgent, modernist style and offered at an attractive price point, it’s a perfect option for both men and women.

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.