Universal Genève were one of the many brands to give way to the quartz crisis but their quality and rich history have kept vintage watch collectors attention decades later. Arguably best known for their Compax chronographs - notably worn by Eric Clapton and Nina Rindt as well as their Polerouter - a Gérald Genta design at the young age of just 23, UG timepieces saw notable usage as tools and on the wrists of celebrated figures. Today, Breitling's acquisition and revival of the brand in '23 is bringing back more attention to the deeper cut brand that vintage enthusiasts love so much.

On offer is ref. 10750, circa 1940s, housed in 18k yellow gold. Notably, this piece features a silvered Arabic numeral dial with radium indices and blued hands. At 33mm its well suited for smaller to medium sized wrists. This example has remained in absolutely stunning and "time capsule" condition given its age. The gold case shows very little wear with ref. and serial still clearly visible. The lugs are thick and even with a crisp hallmark still visible. More impressively, the dial/hands are extremely well preserved. Our watchmaker believes the movement is untouched, suggesting it sat unworn for decades. A rare chance for UG collectors to acquire a truly uncirculated piece.

Dial: Has a touch of wear by noon but remains fantastic, given its age. All of the radium plots are present and have aged to a nice patina. Hands: Are correct and matching. All of their lume is stable. Bezel: No notable wear. Case: Extremely well preserved for its age with thick and even lugs. There is a crisp hallmark still visible on the back of the lug. The caseback ref. number and serial are still visible which is rare very desirable to find in vintage UG. Unsigned crown. Crystal: Clear. Bracelet: Two piece calf leather with generic pin buckle. Accessories: NA The movement is running well on our timegrapher and comes with our 6-month mechanical warranty.

Year/era: 1940s Reference: 10750 Serial: 126XXXX Dimensions: 32mm wide, 37.5mm lug to lug, 18mm lug width, 8mm thickness. Movement: Manual winding.