Universal Genève Polerouter Date

Why We Love It Universal Genève Polerouters come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors - making them one of our favorite vintage models to collect. This particular example is a late execution date model that has clearly led an easy life.  With a seldom seen matte black dial, framed date window with UG's characteristic scripted numerals and double-wide applied indices with intact and beautifully aged luminescent material, this piece makes for an infinitely wearable watch in a variety of settings. Powered by an in-house Calibre 69 Universal Genève micro-rotor movement, this lovely timepiece maintains a trim profile but wears slightly larger than earlier executions, particularly when paired with the included and wildly cool steel multi-link JB Champion bracelet. All in all, this is a simple, elegant watch from one of the most respected names in the industry. Genta’s designs are as good as it gets, and the Polerouter is one of the most affordable ways to get into a vintage Genta piece. When you strap one to your wrist you’ll quickly see why collectors are getting excited about hunting exceptional examples such as this! 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.