Universal Genève Tri-Compax

Universal Genève is a very special brand, and one that most of us here at Analog:Shift and vintage enthusiasts alike feel very strongly about. While probably best known for the Polerouter, the line of chronographs known as the 'Compax' is a close second - and for us, the ranks as one of the most desired models of vintage chronographs, full stop. The Tri-Compax line builds on the Compax, combining high-end manufacture with outstanding designs that evolved with the times, and offers the wearer chronograph, calendar, and moonphase functionality. While brands such as Patek Philippe and Vacheron Constantin may take the prize for the most expensive calendar chronographs, the mid-century offerings from Universal are absolutely mouth-watering. Ever since its debut in the 1940s, it has seen numerous iterations ranging from more complicated and elegant dress pieces - to proper sporty racing chronographs with a more substantial case. This particular piece, a Reference 222100-2, exists somewhere in the middle. There’s an undoubted elegance to the layout of the dial, but the fact that the case is steel makes it more utilitarian than that of a precious metal. Dating to circa 1963-1964, it features a 36mm twisted-lug case with an absolutely gorgeous, brushed silver dial with radial brushed sub registers and a blue tachymeter chapter ring, a matching dauphine handset, a signed crown, and UG's Calibre 281 hand-cranking chronograph movement with moonphase within. The culmination of design details like the brushed dial with the applied 'U' logo at 12:00, the gorgeous twisted-lug case, and the elegant dauphine handset, leave us with a truly excellent package that represents phenomenal value next to its better know competitors in its day such as the Rolex Daytona and Heuer Carrera. When you strap it on your wrist you’ll quickly see why collectors are always on the hunt for exceptional Tri-Compaxes such as this one.  We are massive fans and are delighted to offer this one here.