Universal Genève Polerouter Date

Why We Love It You may have noticed that we're huge advocates for the Universal Genève Polerouter. The Polerouter encapsulates what makes a vintage piece so special. Years of history, classic design, and visible marks of wear and enjoyment. When we have the opportunity to source honest examples - particularly with the increasingly coveted black dials, we always take advantage. But this just your average Polerouter. This is an incredibly clean example with all the elements a collector desires. Its glossy gilt quadrant dial is in stunning condition with completely intact and perfectly aged luminous indices. It also features perfectly matching luminous dauphine hands, an applied logo, the classic asymmetrical date window with stylized font, and the awesome Calibre 69 micro-rotor movement inside. In short, just about perfect! A cursory look around the interwebs will turn up Polerouters of all styles and conditions with a surprisingly broad pricing spectrum. Take it from us, not all Polerouters are created equal, and those that stand out - like this one - don't grow on trees. Try it for yourself, and you'll see why we shout so loud about them whenever we get the chance! The Story Most of us, even the most diehard collectors, know only one watch designer by name: Gerald Genta. The man behind the AP Royal Oak, the Patek Philippe Nautilus and the IWC Ingenieur, Genta changed the watch industry with his luxury stainless steel sports watches with sharp 70s lines and his characteristic integrated bracelet design.  But before he could pioneer haute horology, he had cut his teeth on a more approachable timepiece; the Universal Genève Polerouter. The Polerouter was Genta's first watch design brought to market, penned by the young Swiss designer in his early 20s. The watch was a sales success and propelled Genta’s career forward (allowing for the greats such as the Royal Oak and the Nautilus.) The first Polerouter was released in 1954 (and originally called the POLARouter) to celebrate and promote Scandinavian Airlines’ Royal Viking polar flights between New York City, Los Angeles and Europe. The flights forged a new route over the North Pole, reducing flight times between the two continents. Flying over the North Pole presented a unique set of challenges for a watch, and the Polerouter was designed to be highly resistant to magnetic fields (in addition to the usual shock and water resistance) so as to maintain accuracy during the trip.