Universal Genève Compax "Evil Nina" Mk I

Universal Genève.

Most enthusiasts probably know of the company through some form of their Compax line of chronographs or the Genta-designed Polerouter. The watch we have here, a variant of the former, is a sporty ‘60s chronograph known to collectors as the 'Evil Nina' — and it’s one of the most beloved UG models on the market. There's a lot to love about this piece, from the movement, to the dial design, to the size — and its easy to understand why collectors go absolutely gaga for them!

Starting on the inside the 'Evil Nina' is powered by the famous Valjoux 72 manually-wound chronograph movement. It would be an understatement to say that this calibre is one of the most highly-regarded chronograph movements ever made, and has found itself at home in everything from the Heuer Carrera to the 'Paul Newman' Rolex Daytona.

Fitted in a sleek, 35mm stainless steel ‘twisted lug’ case manufactured by Huguenin Frerès, this generation of Compax featured barrel pushers, a signed winding crown, signed acrylic crystal, and a black aluminum ‘dot-over-90’ tachymeter bezel. 

The 'Evil Nina' got her nickname from its reverse panda dial configuration - accented by a red seconds hand. The inverse layout - white with black subsidiary registers - is known as the 'Nina Rindt' - so named for the famous model (and wife of F1 racer Jochen Rindt) who was famously photographed wearing one in period. The black dial features luminous hour plots, a matching luminous  handset, and a triple-register chronograph display. 

Either configuration gives the watch a similar appearance to the Daytona of the era, and fundamentally speaking, the 'Evil Nina' is very similar in many regards. Similar aesthetics, a similar case size, and the very same chronograph movement — available for a fraction of the price! 

This particular Mark I example (evidenced by its applied 'U' signature at 12 o'clock) returns to us after years of left-coast sunshine, retaining an excellent case with deep engravings and a fantastic bezel. Its dial shows even patination and minor lume degradation throughout, giving it a load of character. Paired to a leather Ralstra rallye strap, this fabulous Compax is the very epitomé of 60s cool.

Plus, it has a nickname as badass as the watch itself!

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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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.