Universal Genève Polerouter Date "Starry Electric Blue Night" - Very Rare

Year/era: 1967

Reference: 869119/01

Serial: 258XXXX

Dimensions: 35m wide, 42mm lug to lug, 18mm lug width.

Movement: Automatic and high-grade micro-rotor caliber 1-69.

The UG Polerouter made a lasting mark in horology with its romantic ties to aviation. Introduced in 1954, the model was released in partnership with Scandinavian Airline System (SAS), with the goal of creating a timepiece that was resistant to higher magnetism experienced in the North and South Poles. The Polerouter is also coveted for being a Gérald Genta design and at only 24 years old at the time, it is considered his first great contribution to horology. Genta would go on to design two of the most iconic pieces of the 20th century with the Nautilus and Royal Oak and more. Today, collectors are coveting the Polerouter as much as ever with the recent release of the Polerouter book in late '23. It was also around this time that the news of Breitling acquiring UG broke, which many collectors hope will further invigorate appreciation for the brand with its re-inception. 

On offer is a very rare and striking looking Polerouter Date of which few examples have surfaced to market. This ref. 869119/01 is a later Genta design and evolution of the lyre lug that proceeded it. The dial this piece houses is a genuine UG dial but is believed to be a test dial as they only examples seen have been in various cases - another UG mystery yet to be discovered. Its color is a fantastic electric blue with various pigmented speckles, creating an unforgettable "starry night" effect. This piece has remained in nice vintage condition. The dial has some crazing in its lacquer but has perfectly aged tritium plots and presents well. The case remains sharp, still shows all of its markings clearly, including serial and ref. number which is tough to find in vintage UG. The crystal and crown are also correct and signed. For anyone looking for a highly unique conversation piece, this is surely amongst the scarcest and most desirable Polerouters available.

Dial: Is a rare and genuine Polerouter dial from an unknown reference as the only ones seen have been in different cases. It is possible it was a test dial that never made it to market and another UG mystery left to unravel. There is some light crazing and a few small spots where the copper backing is visible but it is not distracting to its overall beauty. All of the tritium plots are full and have aged to a warm patina. Presents nicely to the naked eye.

Hands: Are matching and their lume is stable.

Case: Remains very sharp and displays normal signs of use consistent with age. The markings on the back including ref. and serial are still clearly visible which is rare to come by in vintage UG. Correct signed crown.

Crystal: Clear, correct and signed UG.

Bracelet: Is an aftermarket stretch rivet from JB.

Accessories: NA

The movement is running well on our timegrapher and comes with our 6-month mechanical warranty.

Every watch undergoes a meticulous inspection to verify its authenticity and condition. We stand behind every timepiece we sell with a 100% authenticity guarantee.

We ship fully insured via FedEx priority overnight at no additional cost. 

Hassle free returns: Our inspection period is 5 days within the  U.S. We accept returns without question if you aren't completely satisfied. There is no restocking fee unless a credit card is used in which case 3.5% is deducted from the refund. International sales are final.

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